Is it permissible to fast without Suhoor?
Answer:
Suhoor is a blessed act that is an important part of preparing for fasting. Sometimes people are unable to eat Suhoor for some reason and ask whether it is permissible to fast without Suhoor.?
Taking suhoor is not obligatory, but rather a recommended and Sunnah action. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has declared suhoor a blessing and encouraged it. If someone fasts without taking suhoor, his fast will be valid, but he will be deprived of a great Sunnah.
Allah says in the Quran: “And eat and drink until the white streak of dawn becomes distinct to you from the black streak, then complete the fast until nightfall.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 187)
This verse makes it clear that eating and drinking is permitted until dawn, which includes sehri. Although this verse does not make Suhoor obligatory, it does show the virtue of Suhoor.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Eat Suhoor, for there is blessing in Suhoor.”
(Sahih Bukhari 1923)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: The difference between our fasting and that of the People of the Book is the eating of Suhoor.
(Sahih Muslim, 1096)
There are also many benefits of eating Suhoor:
- Sehri provides energy throughout the day.
- Protects the body from dehydration۔
- Improves metabolism, which prevents feeling weak.
- The blessings of following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) are attained.
- It is easy to worship.
- The time to wake up at Suhoor is the time for Tahajjud, which allows a person to pray and worship Allah. This opportunity is also available at Suhoor time.
- Mental preparation for fasting improves.
- The intensity of hunger and thirst decreases.
- Physical weakness and fatigue are felt more.
- There may be laziness in worship.
- Deprived of the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)۔