Question
Is it correct that whoever fasts in the month of Ramadan will be the true close friend of Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam)?
Answer
This is mentioned in a Hadith recorded by Imam Tabarani as one of the three things a person is required to protect to be the close friend of Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam)
The full Hadith is as follows:
Sayyiduna Anas (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reported that Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “Whomsoever protects three things will be my close friend [i.e. Allah will take care of him and protect him] and whomsoever is negligent regarding them is my true enemy [i.e Allah will take him to task and punish him]; [They are] Salah, Fasting [in Ramadan] and impurities (janabah) [i.e. ensuring that one takes a compulsory bath after impurities].”
(Al Mu’jamul Awsat, Hadith: 8956. Refer: Faydul Qadir, Hadith: 3427)
See here for the authenticity.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar