The Obligation to Fast in Ramadaan:
The Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu `alaihi wa sallam) said:
“Islâm is built upon five: Bearing testimony that none has the right to be worshipped except Allaah and that Muhammad (sallallaahu `alaihi wa sallam) is the Messenger of Allaah, establishing the Salaah, paying the Zakaah, performing Hajj to the House (Ka`bah) and fasting in Ramadaan.”
Reported by Al-Bukhaaree (8) and Muslim (16) in their Saheehs.
Ibn Abi Lailaa said: “The Companions of Muhammad (sallallaahu `alaihi wa sallam) narrated to us that Ramadaan was sent upon them and it was difficult for them. So those who did not fast fed a poor person for each missed day and this was an allowance for them. However, this was abrogated by the Verse: “…and if you fast it is better for you” [2:184] and they were ordered to fast.”
Authenticated by Al-Hilaalee (Sifat-us-Saum, Chapter 3) and Al-Halabee (Ibid).
