Fasting on the Day of Doubt ( Yawm al-Shakk ) According to the Jurists: An Analytical Comparative Jurisprudential Study

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16903356

Abstract

This research addresses the jurisprudential rulings on fasting Yawm al-Shakk (the Day of Doubt), defined as the 30th of Sha‘ban when there is uncertainty whether it belongs to Sha‘ban or Ramadan. The study explains the linguistic and technical definitions of “day” and “doubt,” followed by the various scholarly opinions on identifying this day. Three main positions are outlined: (1) It occurs when the sky is overcast on the 30th of Sha‘ban and the crescent moon is not sighted (Hanafi and Maliki view); (2) It includes both clear and cloudy days if unreliable witnesses claim sighting (Shafi‘i and some Malikis); (3) It is the clear 30th of Sha‘ban when no crescent is seen (Hanbali view). The preferred opinion, supported by strong evidence and absence of counterarguments, is the first.

Regarding voluntary fasting on Yawm al-Shakk, scholars agreed it is permissible if it coincides with an established fasting habit (e.g., Mondays, Thursdays). However, for those without such a habit, they differed: (1) Permissible without dislike (Hanafis, famous Maliki view, some Hanbalis), (2) Prohibited (Shafi‘i, some Hanbalis, Zahiris), and (3) Disliked (another Maliki and Shafi‘i view, Hanbali madhhab). The research concludes with the preponderant opinion: prohibition, except for those with a habitual fast, based on strong textual evidence and the legal principle that prohibition in prophetic commands indicates impermissibility unless otherwise specified.

The methodology combines inductive collection of textual and juristic material, analytical evaluation of evidence, and comparative study of the four Sunni madhhabs. This comprehensive approach ensures both theoretical depth and practical relevance, providing a clear, evidence-based conclusion on this annually recurring issue

Keywords: Yawm al-Shak, Ramadan, fasting, Islamic jurisprudence, Ruling on fasting.