The Golden Rule
Money cannot replace Fasting unless you are permanently physically unable to fast (e.g., old age, terminal illness). If you are young/healthy but missed fasts due to laziness or temporary illness, you MUST make them up (Qada).
Which Category Are You?
Islamic law categorizes missed fasts into three distinct types. Identifying yours is key to clearing your debt.
1. Qada (Makeup)
This applies to 90% of people. If you missed a fast due to:
- Menstruation / Post-natal bleeding
- Temporary Illness (Flu, Fever)
- Travel (Safar)
- Pregnancy / Breastfeeding
- Negligence (Laziness)
Ruling: You must fast 1 day for every 1 day missed. No money is owed.
2. Fidya (Compensation)
This is a financial payment aimed at those who have no hope of fasting.
- Old age (too weak to fast)
- Chronic Illness (Diabetes where fasting is dangerous)
Ruling: You do not fast. Instead, you feed one poor person for each day missed (approx £5/$10).
3. Kaffarah (Penalty)
This is a severe penalty aimed at major violations of the Ramadan sanctity.
- Intentionally engaging in sexual intercourse during fasting hours.
- (Some scholars include intentionally eating/drinking without excuse).
Ruling: You must fast 60 consecutive days for each violation. If proven physically unable, feed 60 poor people.
Making up Qada
You do not need to fast consecutively. You can spread them out (e.g., Mondays and Thursdays) throughout the year. It is highly recommended to finish them before the next Ramadan arrives.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women fall under "Temporary Illness". They are exempt from fasting if they fear harm, but the debt remains as Qada to be paid when health returns.