the view that continuous fasting is permissible for one who is able to bear it, explaining that it was forbidden only out of compassion for people, since it is burdensome for them. Thus, Abdullah ibn al-Zubayr, may Allah be pleased with him, would fast continuously for up to fifteen days (1), though this was based on his own interpretation.
What is correct is contrary to his interpretation: at the very least, it is disliked. People will remain upon goodness so long as they hasten to break the fast. Yet the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “Whoever among you wishes to fast continuously may do so until the pre-dawn meal.” (2)
And to say what has been reported.
His statement, “And to say what has been reported,” means: It is sunnah to say what has been narrated from the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, at the time of breaking the fast. It is known that mentioning Allah’s Name before eating or drinking has been narrated both at the time of breaking the fast and on other occasions. According to the stronger view, this is obligatory: a person must mention Allah’s Name when he wishes to eat or drink. The evidence for this is:
- The Prophet’s command to do so (3).
- His informing us that Satan eats with a person when he does not mention Allah’s Name (4).
- His taking hold of the hand of a young girl and a Bedouin when they came to eat before mentioning Allah’s Name, and his informing that Satan had driven them forward, and that Satan’s hand was with