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Frequently Asked Questions and Fatawa on Ramadaan

Question: It is reported that Allah’s Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “Upon the coming of the month of Ramadaan, the gates of Paradise will be opened, and the gates of Hell-fire will be closed.” [Reported by Bukharee] Does that mean if one dies during the month of Ramadaan, one will enter Paradise without being accounted`?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: This is a misinterpretation of the statement of Allah Messenger: “The gates of Paradise will be opened to encourage dedicated, yet devout Muslims to increase their good deeds, in order to enter Paradise in peace (as a result of their good deeds). Moreover, the gates of Hell-fire will be closed so that Muslims will shun away from all unlawful activities. Consequently, they will not enter Hell-fire through those gates.”

This statement also indicates that he who dies during the fasting month of Ramadaan will enter Paradise without any reckoning for his deeds. But, rather, those who enter Paradise without accountability, are those who are described by Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) in his statement: “Those who will not seek an omen (other than lawful ones the Qur’aan and Sunnah), those who do not use hot iron to treat themselves, or mark themselves and those who do not believe in pessimism for any reasons and those who (fully) trust their Lord, (Allah the Almighty).” This Hadith is reported by Bukharee. These categories of people however, maintain all required good acts they are required to do, in the first place.

Question: Does talking evil and unlawfully during the month of Ramadaan nullify the fast?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: The verse of the Glorious Qur’an reads “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become al-Muttaqun (the pious).” (2:183)

This verse indicates that the wisdom of fasting is to obtain righteousness, piety and becoming God-fearing. Yet, it is also essential to realize that a fasting person is performing an act of worship of Allah, the Almighty. Piety, on the other hand, means avoiding all illegal acts, unlawful practices and vain or evil matters. Allah’s Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said, as reported by Bukharee: “He who fasts but does not shun away from evil or falsified statements and bad acting, Allah, the Almighty is in no need for such a person to quit his food and drink.”

This definitely emphasizes the importance of avoiding all evil, unlawful and vain statements and acts. Fasting people must shun away from back-biting, lying, tale-telling and reporting on other people in an attempt to create hatred and animosity amongst people. Fasting people must also shun away from selling or buying unlawful things. If a person succeeded in maintaining these good qualities during the full month, then to one’s whole character will improve for the rest of the year. Unfortunately, we notice that many fasting people make no distinction between fasting days and regular days. Many people continue their life, which they are accustomed to; such as lying, performing various acts of deception, and similar acts as soon as Ramadaan ends.

Moreover, performing these acts reduces the reward of fasting. These acts, however do not render fasting null, but rather decrease its reward

Question: We are a group of elects who are commissioned to a foreign country for one, two, three, or four years. Do we have the option to be treated as travelers (in the maters of fasting and prayers)?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: This matter has been disputed. The leading four major schools of jurisprudence and the majority of scholars claim that travelers who intend to stay for extended periods of time, such as stated in the question, are required to observe fast and perform regular prayers as regular permanent residents do in any locality. Also, this class of people are allowed to wipe over their socks while performing ablution for only one night and one day (24 hours only), and not for three days and three nights, as other travelers are permitted. This is not the opinion of Ibn Taymiyyah, and his student Ibn al-Qayyim, who claimed that the texts of the glorious Qur’an and Sunnah did not define the length of the traveling period.

It has been reported that Ibn Omar stayed in Athrabeejan for six months and maintained shortened prayers. Although this opinion is clear, if one is settled, it is encouraged to complete the prayer and maintain fasting as prescribed. This is also the opinion of Ibn Taymiyyah and our opinion

Question: What is the verdict concerning the use of oil perfumes during the day of fasting Ramadaan?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: It is allowed to wear perfume while fasting as long as one does not inhale the smoke if it is burned incense.

Question: I try my level best to abide by the time of Fajr, (dawn), during the month of Ramadaan to declare fast. One day, I was eating and heard the call of Fajr Prayer. I threw the bite from my mouth and declared fasting. Was my fasting valid or not?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: Fasting was valid because the person did not continue to eat any more after realizing Fajr had been declared.

Question: What is continuous fasting’? Is it a Sunnah of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) to observe?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: Continuous fasting is to continue fasting day and night without breaking the fast for two days (or more). The Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) as reported by Bukharee, banned performance of continuous fasting. He (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “If a person wants to fast one may do so until before dawn only.”

Continuous fasting is not permitted. The Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) rather encouraged breaking the fast as soon as the sunset is due. He (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said as reported by Bukharee: “Muslims will continue to be on the right track as long as they break their fast as soon as it is Sunset.” People asked the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam): “We notice that you continue to fast for two days and two nights without breaking your fast!” He (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said, as reported by Bukharee: “I get fed and offered drink.”

Question: What is meant by the statement of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam): “Eat Sahoor, (light meal before dawn is declared), as it is blessed”

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: This means that there is spiritual, or legitimate blessings for eating such a light meal. Also that one will gain the physical blessing of this light meal is manifested by following the commands, traditions and the Sunnah practices of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and by following his teachings and footprints. As for the physical blessing of this light meal, it is good to sustain the body and physical needs during the long and tiring hours of the fasted day.

Question: What is the ruling for eating or drinking forgetfully while fasting? If one sees a fasting person reaching for something to eat or drink during the fasting hours, should he be reminded or not?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: Eating or drinking forgetfully while fasting will not render fasting null. However, if one remembers that one is fasting, one must stop eating or drinking immediately. If the bite or drink is still in the mouth, it should be spit out immediately. The proof of the validity of the fast of such a person is indicated in the statement of Allah’s Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) as reported by Muslim: “If one forgot and ate or drank while fasting, one should complete his fast. This food or drink that one takes forgetfully is but a grant provided by Allah, the Almighty.”

Moreover, a person will not be punished, for any sin that committed due to forgetfulness. This is based on the verse of the glorious Qur’aan: “Our Lord! Punish us not if we forget or fall into error.” (2:286)

A person who notices, or sees a fasting person eating forgetfully, must remind him. This is based on the statement of Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) as reported by Muslim: “He whoever sees a wrong or ill act being performed, must correct it by hand. If one is not capable to do so, then by a good word to the sinner. But, if one is not capable of saying a good word, then one may deny this sin in his heart and mind.”

Eating or drinking while fasting is a forbidden evil act. It is pardoned however if one does so forgetfully. But people, who notice this person, must remind him that it is the fasting month of Ramadaan. Witnesses who neglect to remind forgetting persons have no excuse

Question: Is it permitted to observe fasting the six days of Shawwal, (the tenth month of the Islamic calendar), before making up days which were missed of the fasting Ramadaan? Is it also permissible to observe fasting on Mondays (which is a desirable Sunnah) during the month of Shawwal with both intentions to make up missed days, and offer the desirable fasting?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: A fasting person will not get the reward of fasting the six days of Shawwal unless and until completion of the fasting of the entire month of Ramadaan is done. Thus, the person who still owes some days of Ramadaan, must first complete the days to be made up, then offer the voluntary fast of the days of Shawwal. This is based on the Hadith of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) which is reported by Muslim: “He whoever (completes) fasting the month of Ramadaan, then follows it up by fasting six days of Shawwal will be rewarded for a full year.”

Therefore, it is better to make up the days that one missed of Ramadaan, then observe fasting six days of Shawwal. One may observe fasting Mondays and Thursdays of the days of Shawwal. Thus, one gets the reward of both intentions, fasting the six days of Shawwal and observing the fast of Mondays and Thursdays. This is based on the statement of Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) as reported by Bukharee: “Truly actions are based upon intentions and truly every person is entitled to gain the reward for whatever he intends.”

Question: Will taking injections in either the muscle or the vein affect fasting?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: Injections may be either for treatment or nourishment. If the injection is intended for nourishment and is a substitute of food, then it will render fasting null. As for injections that are meant for medical treatment only, they do not affect fasting at all, regardless of whether they are taken via muscle or vein

Question: I have a little, minor boy who insists to fast, although he is not too healthy. Should I force him to break fast?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: A minor who did not attain the age of puberty is not required to observe fasting. If a minor, however, can afford to fast without hardship and difficulty he should be rather commanded to perform fasting. The Companions of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) commanded their youngsters to fast during the month of Ramadaan. A small child may cry, because of hunger and fatigue. The parents will give such a child a toy to play with until the time of sunset to break fast. But, if it is proven and obvious that such a child may endanger his health by observing fasting, then such a minor must be forbidden to observe the fast as he will endanger his health. No force must be applied, however, to forbid minors from fasting, force is not preferred in the Islamic method for upbringing.

Question: Will Gargling with mouth wash render fasting null?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: Gargling with mouth-wash while fasting does not break the fast, provided that it is not swallowed. It is better, however, not to use mouth-wash while fasting unless it is an extreme necessity. Gargling generally does not break the fast unless the fasting person swallows even a drop.

Question: Is the fast of a person who offered a false testimony valid?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: False testimony is one of the major sins. If this means that one gives a testimony that is false or speaks about something that he has no knowledge of, it will not render fasting null, but rather decrease its reward

Question: Are there social benefits to fasting?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: Yes, indeed. fasting has many social benefits, some of which are the following:

(a) The feeling of belonging to one single nation, (Ummah). Muslims during the month of Ramadaan eat at the same time and stop eating at the same time (with consideration to longitudes and latitudes of various countries and cities).

(b) The rich people feel and appreciate the Grace of Allah, the Almighty upon them and feel sympathy for the poor, needy, widows and orphans in their society.

(c) Fasting increases ties with the Lord, Allah, the Almighty, thus increasing the level of piety and goodness. Fasting also strengthens ties amongst various members of the society, the rich and poor.

Question: What is the type of travel that entitles the traveler to break fast?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: Traveling for a good reason for a distance of more than 83 kilometers entitles one to break fast. Some scholars do not set a fixed distance, which entitles a traveler to break fast. It is reported that when Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) traveled for a distance of (3) Farshakh (roughly 5 miles), he shortened the prayers. Unlawful traveling of all types does not entitle a traveler to shorten the prayer, nor to break the fast. Unlawful travel also does not entitle the traveler to use the permits offered by Islam. However, some scholars make no distinction between lawful and unlawful travels. Allah, the Almighty knows best.

Question: We live in a country where the sun does not set until 9:30 or 10:00 PM. When should we break our fast?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: Fasting people who dwell in such locations must break their fast when the sun sets if there are distinguished day and night during a 24 hour period. You should maintain the fasting even if the hours of the daylight are longer.

Question: On the 21st day of Ramadaan my father broke his fast due to illness. He was hospitalized where he stayed until the 9th of Shawwal when he passed away. What is the ruling concerning these days, which he did not fast?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: If an ill person is terminal and has no hope of being cured from his illness, he must feed a poor person for every day he cannot fast. If the ill person is not terminal, but after the end of the month of Ramadaan he became terminally ill, as indicated by the question, he is not obliged to do anything.

Question: Some Muslim scholars criticize Muslims who observes fasting, but do not maintain the prescribed daily prayers. What is the relationship between fasting and prayer? I want to fast to be entitled to the reward of the fasting people. I know that: “Fasting Ramadaan, then fasting next Ramadaan will abrogate all sins committed in between.” Would you explain?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: Those who criticize you for fasting and not maintaining the daily-prescribed prayers are right. Prayer is a main pillar of Islam. The person who purposefully neglects the daily-prescribed prayers is declared a non-Muslim, denying the right of His Lord, Allah the Almighty. This person will not be entitled to the reward of fasting, charity, pilgrimage or anything else. This is based on the verse of the Holy Qur’aan: “And nothing prevents their contributions from being accepted from them except that they disbelieved in Allah and in His Messenger (Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam); and that they came not to as-Salaat (the prayer) except in a lazy sate, and that they offer not contributions but unwillingly.” (9:54)

Thus, if one fasts, but does not maintain the prescribed daily prayers, he will render his fasting null. Such a person will not benefit from fasting. As for the misconception you have, concerning that fasting (alone) will abrogate the sins committed between two Ramadaans, you should understand that the true meaning of this Hadith, of Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). The statement reported by Muslim is as follows: “Maintaining the five daily prescribed prayers, maintaining the prayer of Friday, to the second Friday prayer, and fasting the month of Ramadaan, to the next month of Ramadaan will abrogate the sins committed in between so long as one avoids any and all major sins.”

We notice that Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) preconditioned that one must avoid all major sins in order to be entitled to have his sins abrogated and wiped out between the two months of Ramadaan. As for the person who fasts but does not maintain the five daily prayers, he is not actually avoiding the major sins. Purposeful negligence of the daily-prescribed prayers is one of the most major sins. In fact, neglecting the prayer in itself is an act of disbelief, namely it is a denial of the existence of Allah, the Almighty. Thus, fasting will not be accepted from such a person. One must repent to Allah; establish what is required to do in terms of the five daily-prescribed prayers first, then observe fasting. Thus, when Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) sent Mo’adh (radhi allahu anhu), his Companion to Yemen, he told him, as reported by Bukhare: “Let the first thing you invite people to practise: to testify that there is no true deity worthy of worship but Allah Alone, and that Mohammed (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) is His slave and Messenger. If they respond affirmatively to your call, then inform them that Allah, the Almighty prescribed for them five daily prayers .. . .”

We notice that the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) began with the prayers right after the declaration of faith.

Question: On the 21st day of Ramadaan my father broke his fast due to illness. He was hospitalized where he stayed until the 9th of Shawwal when he passed away. What is the ruling concerning these days, which he did not fast?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: If an ill person is terminal and has no hope of being cured from his illness, he must feed a poor person for every day he cannot fast. If the ill person is not terminal, but after the end of the month of Ramadaan he became terminally ill, as indicated by the question, he is not obliged to do anything.

Question: Some Muslim scholars criticize Muslims who observes fasting, but do not maintain the prescribed daily prayers. What is the relationship between fasting and prayer? I want to fast to be entitled to the reward of the fasting people. I know that: “Fasting Ramadaan, then fasting next Ramadaan will abrogate all sins committed in between.” Would you explain?

Answer by Shaikh Mohammed bin Saalih al-Uthaimeen: Those who criticize you for fasting and not maintaining the daily-prescribed prayers are right. Prayer is a main pillar of Islam. The person who purposefully neglects the daily-prescribed prayers is declared a non-Muslim, denying the right of His Lord, Allah the Almighty. This person will not be entitled to the reward of fasting, charity, pilgrimage or anything else. This is based on the verse of the Holy Qur’aan: “And nothing prevents their contributions from being accepted from them except that they disbelieved in Allah and in His Messenger (Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam); and that they came not to as-Salaat (the prayer) except in a lazy sate, and that they offer not contributions but unwillingly.” (9:54)

Thus, if one fasts, but does not maintain the prescribed daily prayers, he will render his fasting null. Such a person will not benefit from fasting. As for the misconception you have, concerning that fasting (alone) will abrogate the sins committed between two Ramadaans, you should understand that the true meaning of this Hadith, of Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). The statement reported by Muslim is as follows: “Maintaining the five daily prescribed prayers, maintaining the prayer of Friday, to the second Friday prayer, and fasting the month of Ramadaan, to the next month of Ramadaan will abrogate the sins committed in between so long as one avoids any and all major sins.”

We notice that Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) preconditioned that one must avoid all major sins in order to be entitled to have his sins abrogated and wiped out between the two months of Ramadaan. As for the person who fasts but does not maintain the five daily prayers, he is not actually avoiding the major sins. Purposeful negligence of the daily-prescribed prayers is one of the most major sins. In fact, neglecting the prayer in itself is an act of disbelief, namely it is a denial of the existence of Allah, the Almighty. Thus, fasting will not be accepted from such a person. One must repent to Allah; establish what is required to do in terms of the five daily-prescribed prayers first, then observe fasting. Thus, when Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) sent Mo’adh (radhi allahu anhu), his Companion to Yemen, he told him, as reported by Bukhare: “Let the first thing you invite people to practise: to testify that there is no true deity worthy of worship but Allah Alone, and that Mohammed (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) is His slave and Messenger. If they respond affirmatively to your call, then inform them that Allah, the Almighty prescribed for them five daily prayers .. . .”

We notice that the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) began with the prayers right after the declaration of faith.

Question: A diabetic and cardiac woman was advised by doctors not to fast. She fasted against the medical advice last year. In the current year, she also observed fasting but she slept most of the day and was able to only get up to pray, and go back to sleep. Is it correct to do so?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: If fasting increases the illness of a patient, or makes his life miserable, it is permitted for him to break the fast. Breaking the fast for such a person is better. Such an ill person is only required to make up the days missed during the month of Ramadaan later. This is based on the verse of the Holy Qur’aan: “And whoever is ill or on a journey; the same number [of days which one did not observe Saum (fasts) must be made up] from other days. Allah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things difficult for you.” (2:185)

If a well known, pious and God-fearing doctor determined that observing fast is difficult, prolongs the illness, it is permissible to break the fast. However, if the ill person is capable of maintaining the fast while sleeping during the day and resting, such a patient is not permitted to break the fast. If fasting does make the illness worse, or prolongs the period of the illness, then it is permissible to break the fast and make it up later. One may make up such days during the short days of winter. If one cannot observe fast at all, then one may pay the atonement by feeding a poor person for every day missed.

Question: Should a fasting person break his fast upon hearing the call for prayer (Maghrib) immediately? Is it permissible to postpone breaking the fast for thirty minutes to an hour due to work obligations?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Bukharee reported that Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “The most beloved slaves to Allah, the Almighty are those who break their fast as soon as they hear the Call for Maghrib prayer. The Muslim Ummah, (nation) will continue to be in a good condition as long as they haste to break their fast and delay the Sahoor, (the light meal during the night) to before the dawn.”

The Sunnah (practice) of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) is to break fast first then offer Maghrib (sunset) prayer, provided that the sun has fully set properly. This is based on the statement of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) as reported by Bukharee: “If the night approaches from this direction, and the day departs from this direction (i.e. East and West) and the sun fully sets, the fasting person must break his fast.”

It is permitted however to delay breaking the fast in the case of doubt of the sunset time due to cloudy weather conditions. Similarly, it is permissible to delay it due to any sound and legitimate excuse such as, waiting for food to be cooked.

Question: When should a young girl begin the fast?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: When a young girl attains the age of puberty and becomes a woman she must begin to fast. If a girl attained puberty at an age of ten years or up, she must begin to fast. If a young girl’s menstruation starts she must fast the prescribed month of Ramadaan regardless of her age

Question: If a woman delivered one week before the beginning of the month of Ramadaan, and finished the maternity blood period before 40 days. Should she fast the remaining days of the month of Ramadaan?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Yes, a woman who delivered and finished the postnatal blood period and became completely free from bleeding may declare fasting the remaining days of the month of Ramadaan. A postnatal woman who becomes completely free from bleeding after a week, ten days or any number of days after delivery must offer the regular five daily-prescribed prayers as well as observe fasting of the month of Ramadaan.

There is no fixed limit for the post delivery blood period. Moreover, if a postnatal woman passed the forty days of confinement period and continued to bleed, she must not offer prayers or fast until she is completely free from post delivery bleeding.

Question: If I could not complete fasting due to a severe thirst, should I fast as much as I can of the day and break my fast when I feel thirsty? How can I make this day up?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Such a severe thirst must be a result of either an illness, pregnancy or else. If the excuse is valid as such, then one is entitled to break the fast and make it up later at some other time, as soon as the excuse is no longer present. If, on the other hand there was no valid excuse for breaking the fast of the month of Ramadaan, then such a person must not break his fast.

One must attempt to use all means that help one to perform a relatively easy fasting such as: delay the light meal until a very close time to dawn, drinking a lot of liquids during the night, avoid all strenuous work during the daylight hours, etc.

Every Muslim who is required to fast must prepare an intention with a full determination to observe fasting every day of the month of’ Ramadaan. One must not break the fast because of exterior sufferings. If one can no longer take the sufferings, one should not break the fast with the intention to make it up as soon as one is capable to do so. One cannot fast only a portion of the day. This is an unacceptable practice insofar as fasting the month of Ramadaan is concerned, as contrary to desirable or Sunnah fasting.

Question: Are there any conditions for the fasting of minors and is it true that their fasting reward is their parent’s?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: It is allowed for the parents to train the minors to fast while less than ten years of age if they can fast. If they reach the age of puberty they must fast as adults do and if they can fast before puberty they should allocation form all the nullifiers of fasting and they will get rewarded. The parents also get reward if minors fast

Question: If some who is fasting voluntarily wants to break the fast (as it is optional in this case) or someone who is fasting a Ramadaan day wants to breakfast at sunset but they could find any food or drink, is it for them to break the fast by intention only

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Fasting while traveling is allowed and better than not fasting if these is no difficulty. But, if fasting constitutes any difficulty while traveling then breaking it is better as per the opinion of the majority of the scholars, (Ulama).

Once the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) kept fasting during the battle of Fath, (Conquest of Makkah), until he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) was informed that the general Muslims are suffering fatigue, heat, troubles and war. Thus, he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) broke his fast and requested the fasting Muslims to break their fast as well, in order to be able to confront their enemies. A traveling person is permitted and entitled to break his fast in the first place. Such a person may declare his intention to break the fast, if he cannot find anything to eat. As soon as such a person finds the food to eat he should actually execute his breaking of the fast. It is however encouraged and Muslims are urged to be prepared to break their fasting as soon as possible as Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “Muslims (people) will still enjoy goodness so long as they haste to break their fast.” This Hadith is reported by Bukharee.

Question: What is meant by the following Hadith: “Fasting is not recorded for a person who does not declare his intention to fast) during the night (before fasting).”

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Intention is the determination to observe fasting. Such intention must accompany the fasting of each and every Muslim, who is aware of the fasting obligation. It suffices a person however to understand the underlying facts of intention. If the fasting person believes that fasting the Month of Ramadaan is an obligatory act on every capable, healthy, adult Muslim, and he intends to observe the fast, it shall be sufficient for him. i.e. it is sufficient to think of such an obligation and the determination to observe the fast of the entire month of Ramadaan, unless a legitimate reason arises. Moreover, if such an individual wakes up during the night to eat the light meal before dawn, (Suhoor), this will also suffice as the intention. Yet, there is no need at all to verbally utter the intention to observe the fast, or to perform any other acts of worship of Islam. The place of intention in Islam is the heart (or mind). One however, must be aware of the requirements entailed by this intention, i.e. one must not think of eating, drinking, practicing sexual intercourse or taking any other thing that purposely breaks one’s fast.

Question: If Muslims in a certain country region sighted the crescent of the month of Ramadaan, is it obligatory for the Muslims who are outside that region to follow the crescent sighting of this group’?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: There is, undoubtedly a difference in the sighting places of the crescent. Based on this fact, many Muslim scholars are of the opinion that every Islamic state is entitled to observe the moon of the month of Ramadaan separately and independently, based on their own geographic locations, especially when there is a notable difference in longitudes and latitudes. The proof that scholars based their opinion on is, the report of Koraibi the follower (servant) of Ibn Abbas (radhi allahu anhu) (the cousin of Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and one of the leading Muslim scholars at the early age of Islam) was in Syria (at that time) where the Muslims sighted the moon of the month of Ramadaan on Friday, and thus declared the fast of the month. The people of Madinah, however did not sight the moon of Ramadaan until Saturday. Ibn Abbas (radhi allahu anhu) was informed about the incident of declaring fast on two different days, i.e. Friday and Saturday. He said: “We shall observe the fast upon sighting the moon of the month of Ramadaan, or else we must complete the (30) days of the month of Sha’ban. That is the way we were commanded to do by the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam)”

Ibn Taymiyyah (rahimahullah), the well-known scholar of Islam, preferred the opinion that Muslims must abide by the moon sighting of the neighboring countries, and declare fast at the same time and day

Question: A woman broke her fast during the month of Ramadaan for a legitimate reason. She died before being able to make up the days, which she missed of the fasting month of Ramadaan. Did she commit a sin? What is the atonement of her sin?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: If an adult Muslim became ill during the month of Ramadaan, and the illness continued after the end of the month of Ramadaan until the person died, his heirs are neither required to make up the days that the ill person missed, nor pay any atonement. Such a sick person simply was unable to make up the days missed due to a legitimate reason. But, if the person improved and the situation got better before death, but one still neglected the make-up, then, in such a case, the heirs must either make up the days that the deceased person missed, or else pay the atonement thereof, i.e. feed a poor or needy person for every day that fasting was missed. In other words, if the legitimate excuse persisted after the end of the month of Ramadaan, and the death occurred before full recovery and cure, then the heirs are not required to do anything on behalf of such a person.

Question: A Muslim on a journey who has a legitimate excuse to break fast, had intercourse with his wife who was unwilling. Is such a person required to offer an atonement? Is the wife also obliged to offer an atonement regardless of being pushed to do it’?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: In my opinion, if a person who is traveling is entitled to break his fast, consequently he is entitled to perform sexual intercourse during the day. If a woman is traveling along with her husband, she is also permitted to break her fast, consequently she can offer herself to her husband.

Such a woman is neither declared a sinner, nor is she required to offer any atonement.

Question: I am a seventeen-year-old girl. During the last two years I did not make up the days I missed of Ramadaan. What should I do?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: You must begin fasting the make up days, which you missed of the two months of Ramadaan. You must start as soon as possible, even if you observe fasting on separate days. Along with making up those missed days, you must pay an atonement, i.e. you must feed a poor person for each and everyday you missed. This is the opinion of the majority of Muslim scholars who consider delaying the fast more than one year a matter that needs atonement

Question: Although I know that masturbation is unlawful, my question is: “What is the atonement of masturbation during the fasting hours of the month of Ramadaan?”

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Masturbation is generally an unlawful, and unacceptable practice in Islam. Masturbation is not tolerable neither during the fasting hours of the day of Ramadaan, nor at the nights, and not even tolerable during any time of the year. Masturbation is a punishable sin. However, it is the Mercy of Allah to accept the repentance of those repenting sinners. He is the ONE Who pardons His sinner slaves and accepts their repentance: The only covering for such a sin is to, first, offer a true and sincere repentance to Allah, the Almighty. One must also maintain a lot of good deeds as they abolish sins of that type. Moreover, such a sinner must fully determine to control his evil thoughts, earthly desires and any evil temptations. Second one must make up the day when masturbation was practiced during the fasting hours of the month of Ramadaan in addition to atonement. Truly, it is Allah, the Almighty Who accepts the repentance of His sinning slaves and Allah truly knows best.

Question: I was treated with an intravenous injection during the fasting hours of the day of Ramadaan. Was the fasting valid or do I have to make up that day later?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: If the injection was nutritious, as opposed to treatment, then the fasting was invalid. If not, i.e. if it was a pain killing treatment or something of that sort, then the fasting remained valid.

Question: Is it permissible to brush the teeth using a toothbrush after dawn is declared? If so, what is the ruling on bleeding while brushing the teeth? Does it break the fast?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: It is permissible to rinse the mouth and use Siwak, wooden brush or other brushes. Some scholars disliked to use Siwak in the afternoon due to the fact that using it will freshen the mouth.

Thus, using the toothpaste and toothbrush becomes more disliked on this analogy. Moreover, toothpaste has a flavoring taste that will be felt during brushing. Yet, the user might swallow a very little amount during the brushing process or may not. Therefore, it is highly advised and recommended to use toothpaste and toothbrush after finishing the Suhoor meal, before declaring the beginning of fast. However, careful use of toothpaste and brush is permissible during the fasting hours of the day. Minor gum bleeding does not render fasting null. Allah, the Almighty knows best

Question: Does donating blood during the fasting hours render fasting null? And, is it permissible?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Donating a generous amount of blood during the fasting hours of day renders fasting null. This is treated the same as cupping (an obsolete practice of lighting a flame of paper under a suction cup, then make a small cut on the skin of the back in order to relieve some blood and body pain). However, if the extracted amount of blood is insignificant, e.g. for blood testing purposes, it will not nullify the fast.

Question: Is it permissible for the cooks to taste the food to insure its satisfactory taste while fasting?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Tasting the food by the tip of the tongue to ensure its satisfactory taste is permissible provided that the tasting person for only checking the level of salt, sweetness or else does not swallow any of the food.

Question: If a menstruating woman became clean and fully pure right after the call of Fajr. Should she declare fasting for that day? Or else, should she make it up?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: If a woman became completely free from menstrual blood on or prior to Fajr prayer call, it is all right for her to declare fasting that day, even if she does not take a full ablution, (Ghusul) at that time.

Question: What is the ruling on fasting the six preferable days (Sunnah) after Ramadaan?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: The majority of Muslim scholars liked this Sunnah and encouraged it. However, none of those scholars claimed that this practice is obligatory. It is a Sunnah (recommended act) of the Prophet. So, it is virtuous to maintain this practice. If one prefers to observe this practice, it is well and good. If one does not care to practice it, there should be no harm, sin or penalty. It is equally permissible to maintain this practice in one year, or skip it the next year. Fasting of the month of Ramadaan shall not be affected by fasting or not fasting these six days. One may fast these days for more reward in any fashion: at the beginning, middle, end, skipping, on alternative days. And Allah knows best.

Question: Is fasting (6) six days of the 10th month of the Islamic Calendar, Shawwal, obligatory? Is the reward of the month of Ramadaan linked to on fasting these (6) six days or not?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: A few soundly documented Hadith were reported from Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) regarding these six days as reported by Muslim: “He whoever observed the fast of the full month of Ramadaan, then followed it by fasting (6) six days of Shawwal would be rewarded as if fasting the entire life.”

The majority of Muslim scholars liked this Sunnah and encouraged it. However, none of those scholars claimed that this practice is obligatory. It is a Sunnah practice of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam).

Question: What is the old age that entitles an old person to break fast during the month of Ramadaan?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: If an old person becomes totally and physically unable to observe the fasting then such a person will become exempted. Such exempted person however, must feed a needy or poor person for every day that he does not fast. This is stated in the Holy Qur’aan: “And as for those who can fast with difficulty, (e.g. an old man, etc.), they have (a choice either to fast or) to feed a Miskin (poor person) (for every day).” (2:184)

However, if the old person reached the age of lack of recognition, then fasting will become un-required from him. Such a person is not even required to pay anything in replacement of not fasting. Such a person will become unaccountable for his deeds just like a minor or an insane.

Question: What is the bleeding that renders fasting void?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: It is beyond any dispute that menstrual blood nullifies the fast. Similarly, bleeding resulting from after-birth is of the same category, even if it was a little amount. Fasting of a woman who is having one of the aforementioned categories of bleeding is null. These types of women must not declare fasting until they are completely free and pure of bleeding. It is soundly documented that Allah’s Messenger *, based on the authority of Abu Dawood, Ibn Hanbal and as suspended by Al-Bukharee said: “Both: the (bleeder) cupper, and the (bled) cupped (persons) nullify their fast.”

However, as pointed out earlier, taking blood specimens, drawing blood by needles for test purposes, nostril bleeding due to sun stroke, facial hit, hair cut or similar bleedings do not render fasting null, as they are not done voluntarily, and Allah knows best.

Question: A person had a wet dream while fasting, would his fasting be valid?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: It is soundly documented in the Hadith of Allah Messenger * that the dawn would approach while the Prophet * did not take a bath, (Ghusal) i.e. total ablution after having an intercourse with his wife. At that time, he would take a total ablution and observe fast. Taking a complete bath is a pre-requirement for offering prayer, thus, one must not delay taking the bath after Fajr, dawn in order to offer the due prayer of Fajr. But, if a person overslept until the forenoon (9:00 - 11:00 am) he can take a full bath, offer Fajr prayer and continue to fast. Similarly, if one slept during the day and had a wet dream, upon getting up, such a person must take a complete bath, offer his prayer and continue to fast the rest of the day normally.

Question: Is offering Tahajjud, night prayers limited to the month of Ramadaan only, or can one practice it all the year around? What is the time that Night prayer begins and ends? Is spending the night in worship limited to offering prayers only, or one may recite the Holy Qur’an as well?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Spending sometime of the night, offering prayers is an act of virtue that was maintained by Allah’s Messenger * and his companions. Allah, the Almighty stated in the Glorious Qur’aan: “Verily, your Lord knows that you do stand (to pray at night) a little less than two thirds of the night, or half the night, or a third of the night, so do a party of those with you.” (73:20)

This virtual act is not strictly limited to the month of Ramadaan alone. The time to offer this practice is between Isha, night prayer, and Fajr, (dawn prayer). The preferable time however, is the late night hours. It is a good practice to sleep for a while at the beginning of the night, then get up either after the first half of the night, or in the last third of it. and Allah, the Almighty knows best

Question: Is it permissible to postpone the fasting of the missed days of the month of Ramadaan until the winter season?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Fasting the missed days of the month of Ramadaan becomes due and incumbent right after the end of an excuse to break the fast as nobody Knows when one may die. If there are any persisting problems it is allowed to postpone the fasting of them. Postponing the fast of the missed days is not permissible for no valid and sound excuse. However, fasting the missed days will suffice the person if offered during the winter season when days are shorter. But one should not continue doing that.

Question: I am 23 years old. My father encouraged me to fast when I was 15 years old. During that early stage of my life, I fasted and broke the fast on numerous days due to the state of ignorance of the actual meaning of fasting at that time. Later, I never broke any fasting during the month of Ramadaan. The question remains: What should I do about the old and early days of my life when I intentionally broke the fast out of ignorance`? Should I make up for those days? What is the number of days I should make up?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: At full 15 years of age, a Muslim is required and obliged to maintain the obligatory fasting of Ramadaan. One, undoubtedly, reaches the age of recognition and adulthood at this age. Therefore, neglecting to fast properly requires making up for the missed days, of the past years. Such a person must make up the days he missed and offer an atonement of feeding a poor person for every day he missed. And Allah knows best.

Question: I married at an early age. I had an intercourse with my wife after Fajr, (dawn) i.e., after declaring fast. I have done this twice on two different occasions. My wife approved this and did not reject it. What is the ruling in my and my wife’s case. I did this (5) five years ago`?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: You and your wife, as well, must make up the fasting of those two days. as well as your wife. In addition to that, you must both offer an atonement for this act as stated in the Holy Qur’aan: “Indeed Allah has heard the statement of her (Khaula bint Tha’laba) that disputes with you (O Mohammed) concerning her husband (Aus bin As-Samit), and complains to Allah. And Allah hears the argument between you both. Verily, Allah is All-Hearer, All-Seer.” (Surah Al-Mujadilah, 58:1)

Similarly, your wife must do the same as she knowingly and willingly did the same.

Question: A man played with his spouse during the fasting hours of the day of Ramadaan. They kissed, necked, and touched the thighs passionately. No ejaculation took place, but rather other excretions, came out. Does this render fasting null and void? I do not know precisely the number of days I have done so. What is the ruling?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Any approach that entails any liquid discharge during the fasting hours of the month of Ramadaan requires a make-up for that day. If it was, however, outside the vagina. Full caution must be taken to assure that one has actually made up for all missed days, provided that such a person is unaware of the ruling. If one becomes aware of such ruling in this matter, yet delays making up the fast, then he must feed a needy or poor person for every day as well as making up by fasting it. And Allah knows best

Question: I have an old grandmother, from my father’s side. She is about eighty years old. I became an orphan when I was one month old. All praise is due to Allah, I grew up and became capable of supporting two families. My grandmother became unable of fasting or even praying properly. I tried to teach her some correct things to do insofar as prayer is concerned, but she could not change her old incorrect practices. Do I have to offer atonement and feed a poor person on her behalf for each day she cannot fast? Or else, can I delay this to the end of the month and feed thirty poor people at once?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: If this old woman cannot keep her fast due to old age, or illness, you must offer a meal to a poor person for every day she does not fast. You may feed poor persons in advance, at the beginning of the month, or you may postpone the feeding of these poor people on her behalf until the end of the month. Moreover, the food (a sufficient meal) may be offered for the same poor person for the entire thirty days, or to a poor family. As for the old woman inability to perform the prayers in a correct manner due to her old age, there is no harm, and she is not committing a sin by doing so. You may, however, continue to advise her and do not give it up. She may be able to pick up little things at least.

Question: I got married during the month of Ramadaan. After Sahoor meal I slept, with my pajama on, with my wife. We hugged, kissed and played. Some fluid was secreted, which I am not sure whether it was semen or else. I continued to do this for a few days. I asked some people and I was advised against it. When I learned that such an act is unlawful, I stopped doing it. I want to know if I need to pay any atonement because of what I have committed?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: We advise you to make up the days that you remember doing something of that sort on. This is only a precaution measurement. All secreted fluids due to passionate arousement or relation require according to the majority of scholars, a make-up for that particular day, provided that one did not do it intentionally and purposely. As for atonement, we feel that you are not required to offer any atonement due to the fact that you were unaware of the ruling. Atonement becomes due only if one actually performs complete sexual intercourse; ejaculates or does not ejaculate.

Question: Which is better, to fast or not to fast while traveling?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: It is equally permissible to fast or not to fast while traveling. Those who fast while traveling must not criticize those who do not observe fast, and visa versa. If the fast causes hardship, fatigue and trouble, it is better to break the fast while traveling. This is based on the verse of the Holy Qur’aan: “Allah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things difficult for you.” (2:185)

The Prophet (salaalahu alaihe wa-salaam) fasted on the 8th year of Hijrah while traveling. He was informed that people are suffering some difficulties due to fasting, fatigue and travel hardships. He (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) broke his fast, and advised the general Muslims to do the same in order to have a full strength to confront their enemies. If traveling, a person is required to serve others, or perform other duties, then it is better for him to break his fast while traveling. Such a person will be equally rewarded, provided he makes up for it later.

Question: I ate something forgetfully while I was fasting. What should I do?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Bukharee reported that Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said: “He whoever eats or drinks, due to forgetting, while fasting, must complete his fast.. Allah, the Almighty has offered such a person something to eat or drink.”

Therefore, if a fasting person forgets and eats or drinks, he must complete his fast as normal. Such a person does not need to make up such a day. However, more caution must be given to remember that one is observing fast. Negligence may reduce the reward of fasting

Question: While fasting, I swam in a swimming pool and swallowed a little amount of water what should I do?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: It is unlawful to expose oneself to things that may break or nullify the fast, while fasting. Extreme and exaggerating rinse of the mouth with water is not lawful. Similarly, inhaling water through the nose is not encouraged either, likewise, swimming is not encouraged while fasting, although it is permissible. If a little amount of water entered the stomach through the mouth unintentionally there is no harm. Such a person’s fast will not be broken.

Question: A fasting man did some extensive physical exercise in the morning that caused him to become extremely thirsty. He took a drink of water, and continued his fasting. Is his fast valid?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Physical exercise is not a religious obligation. Breaking the obligatory fast is rather one of the great and major sins as one is disobeying the commands of Allah, the Prophet and Islam. Being tired due to un-required things does not entitle a person who is observing the obligatory fast of Ramadaan to break his fast. If a fasting person reaches a situation where death is, feared for him, then it is permissible to break his fast and use the permission to make it up later. However, in this case this person must seek full repentance to Allah, the Almighty and make up the fast he broke for no valid excuse.

Question: A person had to make up two days of fasting. He postponed the fasting of those days for two years. What should he do?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: The person who misses a fasting day of the month of Ramadaan must make it up as soon as possible. If the fasting of the make-up days is delayed until the month of Ramadaan of the next year, then a make-up for the missed day of fast should be performed along with are atonement of feeding one person for each missed day

Question: Is a woman permitted to take the pills that postpone the occurrence of menstruation period towards the end of Ramadaan in order to complete the fasting of the month?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: It is permissible to take this type of pills for the purpose of doing righteous deeds. If such a woman intends to complete the fasting of Ramadaan, offering the prayers in congregation and reciting the Holy Qur’aan then taking the pills is permissible. If, on the other hand, taking the pills is intended only for completing the month of Ramadaan so as not to make up the missed days then taking the pills is not recommended. Fasting all the month while taking the pills is an acceptable practice. However, a woman who takes the pills and fasts the whole month need not make up any days later.

Question: What is the ruling of a person who fasted a few days of the month of Ramadaan, then traveled outside his country where he broke his fast. Upon returning to his country he resumed fasting?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Breaking the fast during travel is absolutely permissible, although maintaining it is better if there is no much difficulty. The person who directed the question looks as if he traveled to a non-Islamic country. If this is the case, this person has committed a sin. Moreover, if he intended to travel during the month of Ramadaan just to break his fast, and further added more sins such as drinking or else, then he is required to seek a true repentance to Allah, the Almighty. This person must make up the days he missed of the month of Ramadaan.

Question: What is the ruling of wearing perfume while fasting during the month of Ramadaan. Similarly, for using anti­perspiration sprays or sticks?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Wearing perfume on either the clothes or the body during fasting the month of Ramadaan is permissible. The only thing that is disliked is smelling burnt incense and similar things. Using anti-perspiration products of all types is also permissible while fasting during the month of Ramadaan.

Question: Does facial skin lotion affect fasting?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: Facial and body lotions are permissible to use while fasting in the month of Ramadaan.

Question: If a woman fasted six days of the month of Shawwal with the intention to make up the number of days she missed due to menstruation, will such a fasting be sufficient for both?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: One must complete the fasting of the missed days of the month of Ramadaan first, then add another six more days, as reported of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam).

Question: Is a person permitted to maintain voluntary fast if he is capable of doing so without causing any harm to himself or others? Is any of the family members of such a person entitled to forbid this fasting person from fasting?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: If a person is capable and willing to observe voluntary fast or offering voluntary prayers he is permitted to observe the voluntary fast and prayers. Such a person voluntary activities, however, must not constitute any harm or bother others. No one has the right to prevent such a person from doing what he intends to do, as such activities do not constitute any harm to others.

Question: I swallowed a little amount of water while rinsing my mouth without intention to do so. I asked a learned man and he informed me that I am not required to do anything as a result of this. What is your answer?

Answer by Fatawah Shaikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen: You do not need to make up that day or offer any atonement. What the learned man told you is correct and true. On one hand you were unaware of the ruling. On the other hand the water you swallowed was very little, and this is rarely done and unintentional. Therefore you are not required to make up for that day.

Question: I never made up the days that I missed from the month of Ramadhan due to my monthly period and I am not able to determine how many days they were. What shall I now do?

Answer by Shaikh ibn Baz: You must investigate the matter and fast what you believe you missed of the days of fasting. And Ask Allah for help and assistance. “Allah burdens not a person beyond his scope” (al-Baqara 286).

Do your best and investigate the matter and be cautious with respect to yourself until you have fasted what you believe must be the amount that you missed. You must also repent to Allah.

Question: About ten years ago I passed through the well-known stages of puberty. However, in the first year of my adulthood, I did not fast the month of Ramadhan although I had no physical excuse. It was my ignorance at that time, not realizing that it was obligatory. Do I now have to make those days up? In addition to making up those days, do I now have to make some expiation?

Answer by Shaikh ibn Baz: It is a must upon you to make up that month in which you did not fast while, at the same, repenting and seeking Allah’s forgiveness. You must also feed a poor person for every day the amount of half a sa’ of the staple food of dates, rice or other such foods if you have the ability to do so. If you are poor and do not have the ability to do so, then there is nothing upon you besides the making up of the fast.

Question: What is the ruling concerning delaying the making up of the days of Ramadhan until after the following Ramadhan?

Answer by Shaikh ibn Baz: Whoever broke his fast during Ramadhan due to traveling, illness and so forth, must make up those days before the next Ramadhan. Between the two Ramadhans our Lord has given us ample time. If one delays it until beyond the next Ramadhan, one must make up the missed days as well as feed a poor person for every day. This was the ruling of a group of the Companions of the Prophet (salaallahu alaihe wa-sallam). One should give half a sa’ of the staple food of a land. This is approximately one and half kilograms of dates, rice or something of that nature. If the person makes up the fasts before the next Ramadhan, there is no obligation to feed others

From ahya.org