What is the wisdom behind the absence of a period of rest from worship for men, as there is for women (such as menstruation and postpartum bleeding)?
Worship is not a hardship from which a Muslim wishes to rest; rather, it is love, glorification, and longing for Allah. Through it, the servant humbles himself before his Lord, supplicating Him, hoping for His mercy and bounty. A Muslim whose state is such does not seek to be relieved of it; instead, he asks for more seasons of worship and obedience, just as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Relieve us with it, O Bilal" (meaning prayer). Ibn al-Qayyim believes that the perfection of servitude stems from the perfection of love for Allah, who possesses absolute perfection. Love for Allah necessitates worshipping Him, obeying Him, and striving diligently in devotion to Him. This motive is the most perfect of motives for servitude. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, stood in prayer until his feet cracked, and he said: "Should I not be a grateful servant?" Allah is worshipped, praised, and loved because He is worthy of it. No one can worship Him as He deserves to be worshipped, nor can anyone give Him His full due of love and praise. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "I cannot enumerate Your praises," and that his deeds alone are insufficient for salvation except by Allah's mercy and grace. Some angels have been prostrating or bowing since their creation and will say on the Day of Judgment: "Glory be to You, we have not worshipped You as You deserve to be worshipped."
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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