Did you know that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to fast regularly on Mondays and Thursdays? These are simple, voluntary fasts that any healthy adult can try – and older children can practise in an easy way. Here is everything you need to know.
Why Mondays and Thursdays?
The Prophet ﷺ was asked about fasting on Monday, and he said: "That is the day on which I was born and the day on which revelation came to me." (Sahih Muslim, 1162)
He also said: "Deeds are presented (to Allah) on Monday and Thursday, and I love that my deeds be presented while I am fasting." (Jami' at-Tirmidhi, 747)
Is It Obligatory?
No. Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays is Sunnah (voluntary). You get reward for doing it, and there is no sin if you skip it. You can fast one day, both days, or only some weeks – whatever you can manage.
How to Fast (Simple Steps)
- Intention: Make the intention in your heart to fast for Allah. For a voluntary fast, you can even make the intention in the morning if you have not eaten anything since Fajr.
- Suhoor: Eat a light pre-dawn meal before Fajr – the Prophet ﷺ said there is blessing in suhoor.
- During the day: No food, drink or anything that breaks the fast from Fajr until Maghrib.
- Iftar: Break your fast at Maghrib, ideally with dates and water, as the Prophet ﷺ did.
Tips for Busy People (School & Work)
- Start with one day a week – Monday or Thursday.
- Drink plenty of water between Maghrib and Fajr the night before.
- Choose suhoor foods that keep you full: oats, eggs, yoghurt, fruit.
- In winter, days in North America and the UK are short – a perfect time to start!
For Children: "Practice Fasting"
Fasting becomes obligatory after a child reaches puberty, but many families let younger children practise:
- Fasting until Dhuhr ("half-day fast")
- Fasting on a weekend Monday or Thursday during school holidays
- Helping prepare iftar for the family
Praise them warmly – it builds love for fasting before Ramadan.
Who Should Not Fast?
People who are ill, pregnant or breastfeeding women who may be harmed, travellers, and anyone with a health condition should consult a doctor and a knowledgeable scholar. Islam is a religion of ease.
Combine Fasting with the Quran
Fasting days are a wonderful time to read more Quran. If you would like to improve your recitation, Tehfiz-ul-Quran Academy offers one-on-one online classes for kids and adults in your time zone. Book a 3-day free trial.