Fiqh of Fasting (Sawm)
Conditions for Validity
1. Islam
2. Sound mind
3. Being an adult
4. Intention made before Fajr
5. Free from menstruation/post-natal bleeding
What Invalidates the Fast
Requires Qada (making up) and Kaffarah (expiation):
Intentional sexual intercourse during daylightRequires Qada only:
Intentional eating or drinkingIntentional vomiting (majority view)Starting menstruationApostasyDoes NOT invalidate the fast:
Eating by mistake (forgetting)Rinsing mouthInjections (unless nutrient-providing)Unintentional swallowing of waterKaffarah for Breaking Fast
Expiation for deliberately breaking a Ramadan fast by intercourse:
1. Free a slave (no longer applicable)
2. If unable: Fast 60 consecutive days
3. If unable: Feed 60 poor people
Voluntary Fasting
Mondays and Thursdays (Sunnah)White days: 13, 14, 15 of each month6 days of ShawwalDay of Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah) — expiates 2 years