Non-observance of Sawm by someone whom fasting may harm

Q: I suffer from kidney disease. One of my sons donated one of his kidneys to me and the physician who performed the operation advised me not to fast during the month of Ramadan. The operation was performed only recently, and the physician told me that fasting will endanger my life due to my dire need for water, because this is a newly transferred kidney. I ask Allah to guide me and I ask your Eminence to tell me what should I do concerning the missed days of fasting? Am I supposed to make up for these days or should I pay charity as I can not fast while in such a state? May Allah protect and save you!


A: If the reality is as you mentioned, then you are allowed to break your fast for as long as fasting causes you hardship. You have to make up for the days of fasting you missed during the month of Ramadan whenever you are able to do so, even if after one year or more. If you are not likely to recover and to be able to fast in the future, then you should feed a needy person for every day of fasting that you missed during the month of Ramadan. You should give each person one half Sa` (1 Sa`=3 kg. Approx.) of rice, wheat or the like of other foodstuffs like that which you feed your family. In this case, you are not required to make up for these days of missed fasting. (Part No. 10; Page No. 181) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.


Tags: