Do I Need to Make Up My Ramadan Fasts Missed Due to Menses?

Answered by Shaykh Abdul-Rahim Reasat

Question

I have not made up my previous Ramadan fasts and missed them due to menses for three years. I know I have to make them up but do I have to pay the expiation?

Answer

No, the expiation (kaffara) is only required if someone deliberately breaks their fast, and the only circumstance in which anyone would pay fidya for not fasting is if they reach a state where they are unable to fast again.

You should make them up when it is convenient for you to do so. Some people opt to wait until winter when the days are shorter.

Struggle

If you’re struggling with motivation, reflect on the words of the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace)

“Don’t consider anything of the good insignificant- not even meeting your brother with a cheerful expression.” [Bukhari]

Whatever good you do, it will have everlasting rewards. Remember this.

Reward

The effort is limited, but the rewards from Allah are unlimited. Bear this in mind and make them up at a pace that is comfortable for you.

May Allah make it easy for you.
[Shaykh] Abdul-Rahim Reasat
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Shaykh Abdul-Rahim Reasat began his studies in Arabic Grammar and Morphology in 2005. After graduating with a degree in English and History, he moved to Damascus in 2007, where, for 18 months, he studied with many erudite scholars. In late 2008, he moved to Amman, Jordan, where he continued his studies for the next six years in Sacred Law (fiqh), legal theory (Usul al-fiqh), theology, hadith methodology, hadith commentary, and Logic. He was also given licenses of mastery in the science of Quranic recital, and he was able to study an extensive curriculum of Quranic sciences, tafsir, Arabic grammar, and Arabic eloquence.