Key Rules and Guidance for Observing Ramadan Fasting Correctly

Ramadan is a sacred month for Muslims, and fasting is a central practice. Observing the fast correctly requires understanding the essential rules and regulations to ensure it is valid and spiritually rewarding. Many people, despite their efforts, may unknowingly invalidate their fast due to ignorance of these rules.

A.When Fasting Becomes Invalid

Fasting must be compensated if broken under the following circumstances: Consuming any inedible item or food accidentally

Water entering the throat while gargling

Being forced to eat, drink, or engage in sexual activity

Objects inserted into the anus or urethra during sleep

Swallowing involuntarily vomit or foreign substances

Eating or drinking after Fajr by mistake or breaking the fast before sunset

Sexual activity while drowsy or unconscious

Intentional eating, drinking, or sexual activity without intending to fast

B. Intentional Breaking Requiring Expiation

If someone deliberately breaks the fast without a valid reason, they must both make up the fast and offer expiation. Expiation can include: 1. Freeing a slave (historically applicable)

2. Fasting for 60 consecutive days

3. Providing two meals a day to 60 needy people

As slavery no longer exists, the latter two methods are practiced today.

C.Acts That Do Not Invalidate Fasting

The fast remains valid in the following situations: Forgetting to eat or drink

Ingesting small amounts of dust, smoke, or water unintentionally

Water entering the ear

Swallowing saliva

Feeling moisture during bathing

Small unnoticed objects in the mouth expelled naturally

Minor bleeding from teeth that does not reach the throat

For detailed guidance, refer to classical Islamic texts such as Durr-e-Mukhtar, Raddul-Mukhtar, Fatwa-e-Alamgiri, Fatwa-e-Razviyyah, Hedaya, and Bahare Shariat.

May Allah grant believers the strength to observe Ramadan fasting correctly and adhere to all proper principles. Ameen.

Author: Mohammed Nurul Absar Taiyobi is a writer, researcher, and Islamic thinker. He is the Founder President of the Expatriate Journalists Association (PRASAS) based in Dubai, UAE. Additionally, he serves as the Chairman of the Islamic Research Center located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. For correspondence, he can be reached at: muntyping@gmail.com