17 May, 2025
Fasting is one of the most spiritually and physically rewarding acts in Islam. Beyond the obligatory fasts of Ramadan, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged several voluntary fasts that bring immense blessings. Among the most emphasized is fasting 3 days every month — a practice known in Arabic as Ṣiyām al-Ayyām al-Bīḍ (fasting the white days).
In this article, we’ll explore the religious significance of fasting 3 days a month, the specific days recommended, authentic hadiths that support the practice, and its spiritual and health benefits.
Fasting 3 days every month refers to the voluntary fasting of three days in each lunar month. These days are commonly the 13th, 14th, and 15th of every Hijri month, known as the white days because the moon is at its brightest during these nights.
The Prophet ﷺ recommended this practice not only as a means of spiritual purification but also as a way to reap the benefits of continuous fasting without hardship.
This Sunnah is strongly supported by multiple authentic hadiths, narrated by different companions, demonstrating its consistent practice in the Prophet’s life.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
"Fasting three days of each month is (like) fasting for a lifetime."
(صَوْمُ ثَلَاثَةِ أَيَّامٍ مِنْ كُلِّ شَهْرٍ صَوْمُ الدَّهْرِ كُلِّهِ)
— Sahih al-Bukhari (1976), Sahih Muslim (1162)
This hadith is based on the concept that each good deed is multiplied by ten, so fasting 3 days equals the reward of 30 days — i.e., a whole month. Doing so every month equates to fasting the entire year.
Another narration specifies the actual days:
"O Abu Dharr! When you fast three days in a month, then fast the 13th, 14th, and 15th."
— Sunan al-Tirmidhi (761), graded Hasan by al-Albani
This hadith confirms the preference for fasting the white days, although any three days would fulfill the general recommendation.
Aisha رضي الله عنها reported:
"The Prophet ﷺ used to fast three days of every month and he did not mind whether he fasted at the beginning, the middle or the end of the month."
— Sahih Muslim (1160)
This shows that while the white days are preferred, the flexibility remains for those who can’t fast on specific dates.
1. Spiritual Purification
Fasting teaches self-restraint, humility, and increases God-consciousness (taqwa). Regular voluntary fasting helps a Muslim stay connected to Allah outside of Ramadan.
2. Multiplied Reward
The consistent practice of fasting 3 days monthly equals fasting the entire year, as per the Prophet's statement.
3. Consistency in Worship
The Prophet ﷺ said:
"The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if they are small."
— Sahih al-Bukhari (6465), Sahih Muslim (782)
Fasting three days monthly helps maintain a sustainable habit of devotion.
4. Health Benefits
Modern research supports intermittent fasting as a way to improve metabolism, regulate blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and enhance mental clarity. Fasting 3 days per month provides a gentle but effective version of intermittent fasting aligned with the lunar cycle.
The Islamic lunar calendar determines the white days. They always fall on the:
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13th
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14th
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15th
…of each Hijri month. These dates vary in the Gregorian calendar, so it’s recommended to follow a reliable Islamic calendar or local mosque announcements.
For example:
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In Ramadan, fasting is obligatory, so these days are automatically included.
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In Shawwal, fasting the six days along with white days can bring an extra reward.
No, fasting 3 days each month is not obligatory. It is a Sunnah Mu’akkadah (confirmed Sunnah) — meaning the Prophet ﷺ regularly observed it and strongly encouraged others to do so.
However, skipping it does not incur sin, but one misses out on an immense spiritual reward.
Q1: Can I fast any 3 days, or must it be the 13th, 14th, and 15th?
A: You can fast any 3 days of the lunar month. However, fasting the white days (13th, 14th, 15th) is more virtuous as the Prophet ﷺ specifically recommended them.
📚 Reference: Sunan al-Tirmidhi (761)
Q2: What if I forget or miss the white days — can I make them up?
A: Yes, you can fast any other 3 days in the month. The reward of consistency is more important than the exact dates.
Q3: Is fasting 3 days monthly allowed for women on their period if they miss those days?
A: Women who miss the white days due to menstruation can fast any 3 other days of the month. Islam offers flexibility and no blame for natural conditions.
