It’s a common question that comes across every woman’s mind who has skipped fasting during Ramadan due to pregnancy or breastfeeding. Actually, this is a very controversial topic and causes a lot of debate in social media communities.
Many religious men believe that women are given a license to only donate money and feed the less fortunate as a sort of expiation for fasting (Known as Fidya in Islam). However, many others believe that women are obligated to make up for missed fasting days in Ramadan due to pregnancy or breastfeeding. This should be done after the woman gives birth and finishes her two years of breastfeeding.
Islam is a religion of tolerance that can suit everyone’s circumstances. Here are the two opposing opinions and what they are based on, so every woman can make a suitable and easy choice that fits her lifestyle and makes her feel spiritually at ease.
The obligation to make up for skipped fasting days
I personally contacted Dar Al-Ifta on their Fatwa hotline (107). I was informed that if a woman doesn’t fast in Ramadan due to pregnancy or breastfeeding, she should make up for missed days after the conditions that prevented her from fasting are resolved.
They added that donating money is not enough. It is based on the woman’s financial capability and whether or not she will have to spend another Ramadan without making up for fasting days. It’s not advisable to stick only to donations unless the woman is unable physically to make up for those days but the priority is to fast.
You can check their statement on the official website or in the video above by Egypt’s former Grand Mufti Ali Gomaa.
The expiation for fasting
In these videos, you will find different opinions that issue a fatwa that a woman who cannot fast due to pregnancy or breastfeeding can simply donate money to feed the less fortunate.
The videos above show what is found in the four Islamic schools (Madhhab) where some believe that women should make up for fasting days, while others believe a fidya is enough. During the holy month, it is advised to consult with your obstetrician-gynecologist before fasting to exclude any underlying health conditions.
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