Muslims worldwide are preparing for a month of spiritual reflection, community service, and giving as the crescent moon begins Ramadan 2024. People of all ages fast from dawn to dusk during this holy time to learn patience, self-discipline, and compassion for the poor. However some of us are unable to fast, but this does not mean we are exempt from our Ramadan obligations. Fidya is a donation given from those who can't fast for good reasons.
In this blog post let’s explore this unique Islamic concept together.
What is Fidya & Kaffarah
In Islam, fidya is a religious duty. It is intended for those who are unable to fast during Ramadan for legitimate reasons, such as old age or illness. When this occurs, they have to compensate for the missed fasts by helping those in need by giving food or cash. The purpose of Fidya is to ensure that everyone, regardless of circumstances, can perform their religious obligations and partake in the spiritual aspects of Ramadan.
One of the most significant tenets of Islam is fasting during the month of Ramadan. All adult Muslims who are capable of fasting both physically and mentally are expected to fast. However, Islam also acknowledges that there might be circumstances in which fasting is impractical or even harmful to one's health. In these situations, Muslims are not required to fast, but they are still required to pay Fidya in order to preserve the essence of Ramadan.
The Quran discusses this:
Fasting is for a fixed number of days, and if one of you be sick, or if one of you be on a journey, you will fast the same number of other days later on. For those who are capable of fasting (but still do not fast) there is a redemption: feeding a needy man for each day missed. Whoever voluntarily does more good than is required, will find it better for him; and that you should fast is better for you, if you only know. - The Holy Qur’an | 2:184
Although this verse accepts that fasting may not always be feasible, it nevertheless highlights how crucial it is. In these circumstances, Muslims are required to make up for each day they miss fasting by providing food or financial assistance to those in need.
It's crucial to keep in mind that Kaffarah, another requirement for those who purposefully miss a fast without a valid reason, is distinct from Fidya. Kaffarah is a much larger sacrifice that calls for either feeding 60 hungry people or keeping a 60-day fast.
Muslims who are unable to fast for valid reasons can still fulfil their religious duties and benefit spiritually from Ramadan thanks to fidya. It's a deed of compassion and charity that supports those in need and allows people to keep their connection to the holy month of Ramadan.
Who Pays Fidya?
Certain people can pay Fidya, such as:
- Older people who find fasting hard to do physically.
- Those who have long-term illnesses.
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- People with disabilities who can't move.
- Those who are going on long trips.
- Women who are having menstrual cycles.
Calculating Your 2024 Fidya
Traditionally, Fidya involved giving away basic foods. However, as everything evolved, giving money has become standard practice. In the year 2024, the set rate for Fidya is about £6 per day of each fast missed. This means that if someone can't fast for the whole month, they would have to pay about £180 to meet their duty.
How is Fidya Different from Kaffarah?
It is important to tell the difference between Fidya and Kaffarah:
Fidya is used when someone misses a fast for a good reason or one that they can't control. When someone breaks a fast on purpose and doesn't have a good reason, they need to observe Kaffarah. This comes with a bigger responsibility: you must feed 60 people, fast for 60 days straight, or offer an animal. Because of this, Kaffarah is an extreme penalty that shows how serious it is to purposely break a fast.
How your Fidya and Kaffarah can support the needy
When you pay Fidya and Kaffarah through the Al Mustafa Welfare Trust, you directly support two life-changing projects:
Feed 1 Million Ramadan Challenge
This project aims to end the global hunger crisis that affects over 783 million people. Your donations send vital food packages and freshly cooked iftar meals to the neediest, bringing Ramadan to the community.
Through this program, your donations will also help celebrate Eid. Many children, especially orphans, are often left out during this festive time. Your Eid gifts will make them happy, feel remembered, and show them love and care during this special occasion.
Your donations through these projects demonstrate Ramadan spirit and true Islamic kindness. Every gift, whether it's feeding a fasting family or giving a child a new toy or outfit, makes a significant difference in their lives.
How To Pay Fidya & Kaffarah 2024
Easily fulfil your Fidya and Kaffarah through Al Mustafa Welfare Trust's website:
- Choose the Donation: Select Fidya (£6 per fast) or Kaffarah (£360 per fast).
- Donate Online: Make a secure online payment to help those in need.
- Complete Your Duty: Rest assured your contribution is a direct act of giving during Ramadan.
Pay your Fidya quickly and securely and Kaffarah Securely
How Al-Mustafa Welfare Trust utilises your Fidya contributions
At Al-Mustafa Welfare Trust, we use the Fidya donations we receive to provide food for those who are less fortunate.
Throughout the month of Ramadan, Al-Mustafa Welfare Trust distributes food packages to underprivileged families worldwide. These packages contain essential items such as oil, flour, and dates, which are staples in many households.
A significant portion of the people we assist have been impacted by various disasters and are supported through Al-Mustafa Welfare Trust's humanitarian emergency initiatives. These food parcels help them prepare for Ramadan, alleviating their concerns about accessing food to begin and end their daily fast.
By donating Fidya through Al-Mustafa Welfare Trust, you enable people to share the blessings of this holy month with families across the globe, making a meaningful difference in their lives during this special time.
