Fasting Rules for Travelers and Sick Individuals
Fasting in Islam is one of the five pillars of the faith and a significant act of worship. It serves as a means to attain piety, patience, self-discipline, and the pleasure of Allah. However, Islamic law provides exemptions for individuals who are unable to fast due to valid reasons, such as traveling or illness. Islam is a religion of ease, and Allah does not Fasting Rules for Travelers and Sick Individuals burden a soul beyond its capacity. This article explores the rules of fasting for travelers and sick individuals in light of the Quran and Hadith, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of these rulings.
Read More: The Virtue of Fasting in Ramadan
Fasting in Islam: An Overview
Fasting, known as Sawm in Arabic, is obligatory for all adult Muslims during Fasting Rules for Travelers and Sick Individuals the month of Ramadan. The Quran states:
However, there are exceptions and relaxations in certain circumstances “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon Fasting Rules for Travelers and Sick Individuals those before you that you may become righteous.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 183)
to make fasting manageable for believers.
Fasting Rules for Travelers
Quranic Guidance for Travelers
Allah Almighty has granted travelers an exemption from fasting in the “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon Fasting Rules for Travelers and Sick Individuals those before you that you may become righteous.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 183)
Holy Quran:
“And whoever is ill or on a journey, then (they should fast) a number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 185)
This verse clearly states that if a person is traveling and fasting becomes difficult, they are allowed “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon Fasting Rules for Travelers and Sick Individuals those before you that you may become righteous.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 183)
to skip the fast and make up for it later.
Islamic Rulings for Travelers:
- A person who travels at least 78 kilometers or more qualifies as a Shar’i traveler.
- If fasting during travel is difficult, one can skip the fast.
- If a fast is missed due to travel, it must be made up later.
- If fasting during travel does not cause hardship, it is allowed but skipping “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon Fasting Rules for Travelers and Sick Individuals “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon Fasting Rules for Travelers and Sick Individuals those before you that you may become righteous.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 183)
- those before you that you may become righteous.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 183)
- it is also permitted.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“It is not righteousness to fast while traveling.” (Sahih Muslim)
This Hadith emphasizes that while fasting is a great act of worship, if it causes hardship during travel, it is better to take the concession given by Allah.
Fasting Rules for Sick Individuals
Quranic and Hadith Guidance on Fasting and Illness
If a person is ill and fasting may worsen their condition or cause harm to their health, Islam allows them to skip the fast. The Quran states:
“Allah does not charge a soul except [with that within] its capacity.” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 286)
The Prophet (peace be upon him) also said:
“Indeed, Allah loves that His allowances be taken just as He loves that His commands be followed.” (Musnad Ahmad)
Islamic Principles Regarding Fasting and Sickness:
- If fasting worsens an illness, one can skip the fast.
- If a person is so ill that fasting is impossible, they should make up the fast later.
- If the illness is permanent and making up the fast is not possible, they must pay fidya (compensation).
- Fidya requires feeding a needy person for each missed fast.
Duas for Fasting
Dua for Beginning the Fast
Intention for Fasting: وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَوَيْتُ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ
Translation: I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan.
Dua for Breaking the Fast
Iftar Dua: اللَّهُمَّ اِنِّي لَكَ صُمْتُ وَبِكَ آمَنْتُ وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ وَعَلَى رِزْقِكَ اَفْطَرْتُ
Translation: O Allah! I fasted for You, I believe in You, I trust in You, and I break my fast with Your provided sustenance.
Jamia Saeedia Darul Quran: A Source of Islamic Knowledge
Jamia Saeedia Darul Quran is dedicated to spreading Islamic teachings and guiding Muslims on religious matters. It provides authentic explanations of Islamic rulings based on the Quran and Hadith. For more information on Islamic issues, visit our website Jamia Saeedia Darul Quran.
May Allah grant us the correct understanding of our religion and enable us to benefit from the blessings of fasting, Ameen.
