Does Anger Invalidate Ramadhan Fasting?

Ramadhan fasting fundamentally entails more than merely abstaining from food and drink; it prioritises self-discipline and control. To preserve or increase the reward of fasting, believers are advised to exercise caution in their conduct and speech. Consequently, Islamic teachings recommend avoiding anger whilst fasting.

Qur’anic exegete Professor Quraish Shihab, in his book “Answering 1001 Islamic Questions You Should Know,” explains that anger does not actually invalidate fasting. However, if such anger is expressed inappropriately, it diminishes the spiritual value of one’s fast.

This is because unwarranted anger constitutes a temptation of Satan. The remedy lies in performing ablution and promptly seeking Allah’s protection from such temptations.

In Arabic, anger is termed “ghadzab.” The Prophet Muhammad advised his followers to distance themselves from the trait of anger. According to Abu Hurairah, the Prophet met a man who sought his counsel.

“O Messenger of Allah, command me to perform a good deed that I consider simple (not time-consuming)!” the man requested.

The Prophet Muhammad responded, “Do not become angry!” He repeated this instruction each time the man posed the same question. “Do not become angry!”