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Breaking a Ramadan fast without a valid reason is a grave act with spiritual consequences.
It not only violates the sanctity of fasting but burdens the soul with guilt and regret. Kaffarah for breaking the fast offers a path of repentance through acts of atonement and spiritual renewal.
Let’s explore what kaffarah is for breaking the Ramadan fast, its requirements, formula, and ways to fulfill it.
Kaffarah refers to the expiation or penalty prescribed for intentionally violating a day of fasting in Ramadan. The obligation to perform kaffarah follows a strict hierarchy of three prescribed actions.
One must perform the first act unless it's genuinely impossible. The options cannot be freely chosen. Only in such cases can the person move to the next form of atonement.
The three prescribed forms of kaffarah are as follows:
The first and foremost form of kaffarah involves freeing an enslaved Muslim. Modern readers may view slavery as outdated, but human trafficking still exists in some areas today.
For those who cannot fulfill this obligation due to unavailability or financial constraints, the next option becomes applicable.
If freeing an enslaved person is impossible, the individual must fast for two consecutive lunar months. This requires uninterrupted fasting; breaking the fast at any point necessitates starting over. This rigorous act emphasizes discipline and a deep accountability for the violation.
When neither of the above options is feasible, the person must feed 60 poor individuals. This act of charity underscores the importance of aiding those in need while expressing remorse for breaking the fast. Each person must be provided with a full, nutritious meal.
The requirement for kaffarah depends on the specific circumstances under which the fast was broken.
Scholars agree that sexual activity during fasting hours requires kaffarah. This is due to the deliberate nature of the act. This is considered one of the most serious violations of the sanctity of fasting.
A hadith narrated by Abu Huraira provides profound insight into the spirit of kaffarah:
A man approached the Prophet (PBUH) saying,
"I am doomed! I had relations with my wife during fasting in Ramadan."The Prophet asked if he could free a slave, fast for two months, or feed 60 poor people.
Unable to do any of these, the man received a basket of dates to feed his family. This act showcased the Prophet’s compassion and understanding."
(Sahih al-Bukhari: 6711)
This story shows the balance between kaffarah’s strict laws and Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) mercy.
The obligation of kaffarah to break the fast without sexual activity varies among scholars. Some argue that kaffarah is unnecessary in certain cases. However, making up the missed fast day and seeking sincere repentance is essential.
To feed the poor for kaffarah, the cost is approximately PKR 3,000 per person per day. Assuming an exchange rate of USD 1 = PKR 300, this applies to 60 people.
The calculation for kaffarah would therefore be:
PKR 180,000 x Days Missed = Total Kaffarah Payment
This amount reflects the cost of providing full meals to 60 needy individuals for each fasting day missed.
Breaking a fast during Ramadan is serious in Islam. It shows disrespect for the holy month. Whether it involves eating, drinking, or engaging in sexual activity, such actions require the individual to:
For violations involving sexual intercourse, kaffarah is obligatory. In cases of other deliberate violations, scholarly opinions differ, but repentance and resolution to uphold future fasts are universally emphasized.
For menstruating women, consecutive fasting days exclude the days of menstruation. The continuity of her fast remains intact as she resumes fasting from the day after her menses ends.
This cycle continues until she completes 58 to 60 fasting days, depending on the length of the lunar months. Interruptions due to menstruation do not invalidate her consecutive fast.
If a woman claims her husband forced her into intercourse during Ramadan, she’s exempt from kaffarah. If she didn’t participate willingly, no kaffarah is required. If a fasting woman engages in intercourse and menstruates afterward, she must still fulfill kaffarah.
If freeing a slave or fasting for two months is impossible, feed 60 needy people. This must be done for each intentionally violated Ramadan fasting day. This religious obligation can be fulfilled in various ways, as long as the total equals 60 meals a day missed.
For example, one may:
It is also permissible to delegate the kaffarah obligation to a charitable organization that will distribute meals to 60 people on behalf of the person.
Alternatively, the individual can distribute 60 sa‘ of food, a traditional measure equal to four double handfuls of grain per sa‘. This translates to 287.8 pounds (130.56 kg) of staple foods such as rice, wheat, or dried fruits, which can be stored without refrigeration.
In conclusion, understanding the obligations of kaffarah for breaking a fast is essential for all Muslims. From the required acts of atonement to the prophetic guidance on fulfilling this penalty, it is clear that kaffarah is a serious responsibility.
Fulfilling kaffarah through fasting, feeding the poor, or other means shows sincere repentance. It reflects a commitment to upholding Ramadan's sanctity. By following the proper steps and formula, you can effectively fulfill your kaffarah and seek forgiveness for any violations.
The 60 days of kaffarah refer to the consecutive fasting required as expiation for intentionally breaking a Ramadan fast. If someone cannot free a slave, they must fast for two uninterrupted lunar months. If this sequence is broken, they must start over to complete the kaffarah.
Kaffarah is required for deliberately breaking a Ramadan fast, particularly through acts like sexual intercourse.
The conditions include:
Yes, you can pay kaffarah by feeding 60 poor individuals if you are genuinely unable to fast for 60 consecutive days. This can involve providing meals directly or donating through a reliable charitable organization that fulfills this obligation on your behalf.
Fasting on Eid days is prohibited. If a day of Eid falls during the kaffarah fast, the individual pauses and resumes fasting the day after Eid.
WRITTEN BY
Ali Raza (Islamic Theology)
Ali Raza holds a Master of Arts in Islamic Studies and is an expert in Islamic theology and jurisprudence. Specializing in Zakat, Sadaqah, and other Islamic donations, Ali's writings provide valuable insights into the religious and ethical aspects of charity. His work for Pakistan Sweet Homes aims to educate and inspire readers to support orphan care and charitable initiatives, making him a key contributor to the organization's mission.
Ali Raza holds a Master of Arts in Islamic Studies and is an expert in Islamic theology and jurisprudence. Specializing in Zakat, Sadaqah, and other Islamic donations, Ali's writings provide valuable insights into the religious and ethical aspects of charity. His work for Pakistan Sweet Homes aims to educate and inspire readers to support orphan care and charitable initiatives, making him a key contributor to the organization's mission.
