Are you thinking if Hijama can be done while fasting? In this article we will learn about Islamic perspective of Hijama during fasting.
What is Hijama?
Hijama, commonly referred to as wet cupping, is a complementary medicine procedure in which a therapist presses cups against the patient’s skin to create suction. The skin pushes up and into the cup by the suction. Then, the therapist uses tiny skin incisions to draw a small amount of blood. The technique increase blood flow and remove toxic toxins from the body.
Hijama while fasting:
First Opinion on Hijama while fasting:
Ibn Abbas, who is from the knowledgeable of Sahaba was asked about making Hijama while fasting, so he said that what nullifies the fast is what comes into the body and not what comes out of the body.
Abdullāh bin ‘Abbās (radiyallāhu ‘anhumā) stated: “The Prophet (salallāhu ‘alaihi wasallam) had himself cupped while he was fasting.” Sahih Al Bukhari, Vol.3; Book of Fasting- Hadith 1938
Second Opinion on Hijama while fasting:
In another hadith, Allah’s Messenger (salallāhu ‘alaihi wasallam) said: “The cupper (person who cups) and the one for whom cupping is done both break their fast” Sunan Abu Dawud, Volume 2: Book of fasting hadith 236.
Some scholars suggest avoiding Hijama during fast, as it will make you weak. Abu Huraira was once asked about making Hijama while fasting and he said that what about if the person faints or feels weak, then of course one should not do it. Hijama is safe when done by a qualified practitioner, but if on someone who is already weak, it can make them weaker. Increased blood loss while Hijama might make one feel weak, worn out, and lightheaded.
Conclusion:
Because of these 2 hadith, there is a difference of opinion among scholars. However, due to this huge difference among scholars, the most authentic opinion is that it is safest to delay it during the night in Ramadan rather than doing it while fasting.
