If I keep qadha fasts on 8th and 9th of Dhul Hijjah shall I get the reward of fasting on the day of Arafah?

Bismillahi Ta’ala

Walaikum Assalam Warahmatullah

A Qadha’ fast is of wajib nature, while the fasts of dhul hijjah are of Nafil nature.

While some scholars have opined that intention for these two categories of fast may be combined, the cautious position of many scholar seems to be that they may not be combined.

Since the purpose of qadha’ as well as fasting of dhul hijjah is to acquire the pleasure of Allah, the most appropriate action would be to maintain every act of worship in its expected rightful place. Hence, you should either fast for dhul hijjah to gain its bounties, or you should fast the qadha’ fasts to fulfil your obligation.

While the above is most cautious and best course of action, if you fast in the dhul hijjah with primary intention of qadha’, and then also have a secondary intention of gaining the blessings of dhul hijjah fast, it is hoped that Allah will grant our of His Mercy, Ameen.

Wallahu A’lam

And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Mufti Faisal al-Mahmudi