Sawm (Fasting) – Exemptions & Compensation
Sawm (Fasting) – Guide
Chapter 4 – Exemptions & Compensation
While fasting is obligatory during Ramadan, Islamic law provides exemptions for those who are unable to fast due to valid reasons. These rulings reflect the mercy and flexibility of the Shariah (Islamic religious law).
1. Temporary exemptions
Individuals who are ill or traveling are allowed to break their fast and make up the missed days later.
«And whoever is ill or on a journey, then let them fast an equal number of days later.»
— Qur’an 2:184
The missed fasts must be made up after Ramadan, preferably before the following next Ramadan arrives.
2. Chronic illness or permanent inability
For those with a chronic condition or advanced age, where fasting poses a continuous hardship with no expectation of recovery, the obligation is lifted. Instead, they must feed one poor person for each day missed.
«For those who can only fast with extreme difficulty, compensation can be made by feeding a needy person ˹for every day not fasted˺.»
— Qur’an 2:184
This is known as fidyah. It is typically fulfilled by providing a daily meal or its equivalent in food.
3. Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding may break their fast if they fear harm for themselves or their child. The missed days must be made up later. In some scholarly views, fidyah may also be required, depending on the circumstances.
4. Menstruation and postnatal bleeding
Women experiencing menstruation or postnatal bleeding are not permitted to fast. These days must be made up after Ramadan. It is not allowed to fast during these states even if one feels physically capable.
5. Forgetfulness and coercion
If someone eats or drinks forgetfully while fasting, the fast remains valid.
“Whoever forgets he is fasting and eats or drinks, let him complete his fast, for it is Allah who has fed him and given him drink.”
(Sahih al Bukhari)
However, if the fast is broken deliberately, it must be made up. In certain cases, a form of expiation (kaffarah) may be required.
Regarding kaffarah, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“If anyone breaks a fast in Ramadan without an excuse, he should fast for two consecutive months.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)
If unable to fast two consecutive months, feeding sixty poor people is prescribed.
These rulings ensure that fasting remains a means of drawing near to Allah without causing harm or excessive hardship. Each case is governed by clear principles, balancing duty with compassion.
These rulings ensure that fasting remains a means of drawing near to Allah without causing harm or excessive hardship. Each case is governed by clear principles, balancing duty with compassion.