FIddyah
Fast for a specific number of days; but if one of you is ill, or on a journey, then fast on other days. For those who can fast only with extreme difficulty, there is a way to compensate - feed a needy person. But if anyone does good of his own accord, it is better for him, and fasting is better for you, if you only knew.” [Qur’an 2:184]
Fulfilling the Sunnah With Excellence
For those of old age or terminal/long-term illness who would be unable to make up the fasts after Ramadan, they may release themselves from the obligation of fasting by paying Fidyah (compensation).
Some scholars also include pregnant women in this category and those women who are breastfeeding.
If you’re unsure, please seek medical advice about your particular circumstances.
How much is Fidyah?
To offer Fidyah is to feed a poor person an average meal for every fast that could not have been performed, or half a sa’ of wheat or one sa’ of barley.
If we translate this into a monetary value based on the current prices of these staple foods, we have set the value of Fidyah for 2022 at £5 per missed fast.
What is the significance of Fidya in Islam?
Fasting during Ramadan is a compulsory practice ordained by Allah for a specific number of days. If someone is unable to fast due to illness or travel, they must make up the missed days later. However, for those who are capable of fasting but choose not to, there is a way to make up for the missed days by feeding a needy person for each day missed. The Quran also suggests that voluntarily doing good deeds beyond what is required is beneficial for individuals. Hence, while fasting is deemed beneficial, if one is unable to do so, they can fulfill the obligation through the act of Fidya.
How do Fidya and Kaffarah differ from each other?
Fidya is paid when a fast is deliberately missed with a valid reason, whereas Kaffarah is only paid when a fast is broken without a valid reason. Fidya requires the payment of an amount equivalent to feeding one person for each missed fast, while Kaffarah requires the payment of an amount equivalent to feeding 60 people.
Who qualifies for Fidya?
Individuals who have missed or are excused from fasting due to reasons such as illness, old age, or any other circumstances that make it impossible for them to make up for the missed fasts later, are eligible to pay Fidya.
Who can receive Fidya?
The distribution of Fidya is restricted to individuals who are impoverished and in need, rather than being available to all. Fidya is viewed as similar to zakat by scholars, so those who qualify for zakat are also considered eligible to receive Fidya.