Also, sexual intercourse during daytime is prohibited. In this element, the period of observance is daily. It is not Islamic fasting when fasting takes place at night. Indeed, we are encouraged to break the fast without any delay as soon as the sun goes down. The proof for this first element is the saying of the Most High: "...And now associate with them and seek what Allah has ordained for you and eat and drink until the white thread of dawn appear to you distinct from its black thread." (Al-Qur`an 2:187)
This verse defines the time limits in which the worshiper is obligated to exercise abstinence. The first part of the verse is an indication of Allah's mercy upon the worshipers by making it easy for them during night hours in their relations with their spouses. For when verse (2:185) was revealed, it restricted daily as well as nightly relations with spouses. It was obviously difficult for the believers.
Imam Al-Qurtabi and others reported: Once Umar bin Al-Khataab (RAA) returned home late at night after visiting the Prophet (PBUH). When he came home, he felt the urge for his wife. So he slept with his wife, breaking the rule. Early in the morning he went to the Prophet (PBUH) and informed him about the incident. He said, "I seek pardon from Allah and you. My soul tempted me to have relations with my wife. Can you find a permission for me in this offense?" The Prophet, (PBUH), asked whether he really was serious about this. Umar (RAA) replied, "Yes". The Prophet (PBUH) did not have an answer for him, but told him Allah has to decide on this.
By the grace of Allah, before Umar arrived home, Allah (SWT) revealed verse (2:187), permitting believers to enjoy their wives during the night. So this is what the verse is referring to. It sets the limit of abstinence. It does so in metaphorical language draped with flair and beauty, as it describes the starting and the ending time of fast. Eat and drink until the white thread, i.e., the first rays of light finds its way through the dark horizon, the black thread. At that time, one must stop eating and start the observance of fasting.
sourceIsn't it amazing how Muhammad had all these coincidental revelations about very specific subjects -- at precisely the moment when the problem presented itself? Allah was apparently only a trance away at all times.
I will forever be an infidel.
"Umar (RAA) replied, "Yes". The Prophet (PBUH) did not have an answer for him, but told him Allah has to decide on this.
By the grace of Allah, before Umar arrived home, Allah (SWT) revealed verse (2:187), permitting believers to enjoy their wives during the night."
Translation: "Uh, I don't know.. Come back after I've made up some more stuff from allah."