Swimming when fasting? (4)

In the previous blog, we showed how the narrations show there is a real contradiction, which Ayatullah Khui does not beleive can be reconciled.

Therefore, we are left with a discussion as to how to best prefer one group of narrations over the other.

Method 1: "the numbers game"

The group that prevents one from immersing one’s head in water are many, and well-known (mash-hur) such that we can be sure that overall at least some came from the Imam (AS); whilst the one narration of ibn Ammar is by itself – then normally the latter would be discarded.

Method 2: Prefer those that are in line with the Qur`an

If the above method is not sufficient (and many do not look at the numbers of narrations), then we can try and prefer narrations that are in line with the Qur`an: 2:187 is the only relevant verse which does not talk about immersing one’s head in water so cannot help here

Method 3: Prefer those that are different to the Sunni position 


None of the Sunni schools say immersing one’s head invalidates the fast; although the Hanbalis say it is makruh unless it is for making oneself cool, or for ghusl

Therefore, given the muwathaq narration (allowing you to immerse your head in water) is in line with the Sunni opinion, it can be attributed to taqiyya and is therefore discarded.

[A reminder - the reason for this rule / methodology, although it is not used by all, is that at the time of the Imams (AS), there were dangers to their lives. Therefore, it is possible that on some occasions the Imams (AS) might have said the Sunni opinion in public, or if a Sunni asked a question - to avoid any risk to his followers.]

Therefore, according to Ayatullah Khui, the strongest opinion is that it invalidates the fast.

A reminder that the above discussion is only Ayatullah Khui's opinion - but by reading the above, you should be able to infer how the other opinions are likely to have been derived.

In the next set of blogs, we will look at smoking when fasting!