What is Fidya in Islam? A Guide to Who Should Pay It

Fidya is an essential concept in Islam, closely tied to the act of fasting during the holy month of Ramadan. It offers a way for those who are unable to fast to fulfill their religious obligations and demonstrate their commitment to Allah’s commands. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning of Fidya, who is eligible to pay it, how it is calculated, and its significance in Islam.

What is Fidya in Islam?

Fidya, derived from the Arabic root “Fidyah,” refers to compensation that a person must pay if they are unable to fast during Ramadan due to valid reasons and cannot make up for the missed fasts later. The Quran explicitly mentions this in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:184):

“[Fasting is for] a limited number of days. So whoever among you is ill or on a journey [during them] – then an equal number of days [are to be made up]. And upon those who are able [to fast, but with hardship] – a ransom [as substitute] of feeding a poor person [each day]. And whoever volunteers excess – it is better for him. But to fast is best for you, if you only knew.”

This verse highlights that Fidya serves as a substitute for fasting, enabling individuals who face legitimate challenges to fulfil their duties in a way that benefits society by helping the needy.

Who Should Pay Fidya?

Fidya is meant for individuals who:

1. Have long-term or chronic illnesses: People with health conditions that prevent them from fasting and who are unlikely to recover.
2. Are elderly: Those who are too weak to fast and cannot make up the missed fasts later.
3. Are pregnant or breastfeeding: In cases where fasting could harm the mother or child, although some scholars suggest these individuals can make up their fasts later if possible.
4. Face terminal illness: Those suffering from conditions that make fasting or compensatory fasting impossible.

Important Note:
Temporary conditions like short-term illness or travel do not typically qualify for Fidya since the individual is expected to make up the missed fasts later, as per the Quran.

Fidya vs Kaffarah: What’s the Difference?

• Fidya is paid when a fast is missed for a valid reason (e.g., chronic illness) and cannot be made up.
• Kaffarah, on the other hand, is a penalty for breaking a fast without a valid reason. The payment for Kaffarah is significantly more—feeding 60 poor people or fasting for 60 consecutive days.

How Much is Fidya for Ramadan?

The amount of Fidya for each missed fast is equivalent to feeding one poor person two meals or giving the monetary value of those meals. The cost is calculated based on the local staple food (e.g., wheat, rice, or dates). For example, it could be the value of approximately 1.5kg of wheat or its equivalent.

In the UK, the amount of Fidya for each missed fast during Ramadan is usually around £4–£5. The exact amount is confirmed closer to the beginning of Ramadan

Steps to Calculate Fidya for Ramadan:

1. Count the total number of fasts missed.
2. Multiply the number of days by the cost of two meals or the equivalent staple food per day.

For instance:

• If the cost of feeding one poor person is £5 per day, and you missed 10 fasts, your Fidya would be £5 x 10 = £50.

It is recommended to consult with a local Islamic scholar or organisation to ensure the calculation aligns with local conditions and prices.

How to Pay Fidya?

Fidya can be fulfilled in the following ways:

1. Feeding the poor directly: This can be done by providing cooked meals or distributing staple foods to the needy.
2. Donating to a trusted Islamic organisation: Many organisations collect Fidya and distribute it on your behalf.

When it comes to fulfilling your Fidya obligations, it’s important to choose a trustworthy and reliable organisation that can ensure your contribution reaches those who need it most. Alqulub Trust is an excellent choice for paying your Fidya, offering transparency, accountability, and a commitment to helping the most vulnerable in society.

Why Choose Alqulub Trust?

Trusted by the Community:
Alqulub Trust has built a strong reputation for its dedication to serving the needy and uplifting underprivileged communities. By paying your Fidya through Alqulub Trust, you can rest assured that your contribution is in safe hands and will be used in accordance with Islamic principles.

Helping the Needy:
The core mission of Alqulub Trust is to support the poor and vulnerable, ensuring that no one goes hungry or suffers due to a lack of resources. When you pay your Fidya, your donation directly helps provide meals and sustenance to individuals and families struggling with poverty.

Effective Distribution:
Alqulub Trust works tirelessly to identify those most in need, ensuring your Fidya reaches the most deserving people. They distribute Fidya in the form of cooked meals or essential dry rations, helping recipients lead dignified lives.

A Rewarding Spiritual Act:
Paying Fidya through Alqulub Trust not only fulfils your religious obligation but also gives you the peace of mind of knowing your payment is making a real difference. This act of charity strengthens your connection with Allah (SWT) and supports the well-being of the Ummah.

Why is Fidya Important in Islam?

Fidya reflects the mercy and flexibility of Allah’s commands, making Islam accessible to people of all circumstances. It embodies key Islamic values, such as:

• Compassion and charity: By providing for the poor, Fidya supports those in need and strengthens the community.
• Accountability to Allah: It ensures that Muslims maintain a connection with their faith even when they are unable to fulfil certain obligations.

The Deeper Significance of Fidya

Beyond its practical role, Fidya serves as a reminder of compassion and solidarity within the Ummah. It emphasises:

• The importance of supporting those less fortunate.
• The flexibility and mercy in Islamic rulings.
• The spiritual value of charity, which strengthens the community as a whole.

By paying Fidya with sincerity, Muslims fulfill their obligations while contributing to the welfare of society, gaining both spiritual rewards and Allah’s mercy.

FAQs:

1. Can Fidya be Paid After Ramadan?

Yes, Fidya can be paid after Ramadan if a person is unable to determine the number of missed fasts or calculate the payment during the holy month.

2. Do Pregnant Women Need to Pay Fidya?

This depends on the individual’s circumstances, and the school of thought they follow. Some scholars advise that pregnant women make up the missed fasts later, while others permit paying Fidya if fasting poses significant harm.

3. Who Can Receive Fidya?

Fidya can only be given to the poor and needy, similar to Zakat. It cannot be distributed to close family members whom one is already financially obligated to support.

4. What Happens if a Person Recovers Later After Paying Fidya?

If someone pays Fidya thinking they won’t regain the ability to fast but later recovers, the Fidya paid will count as Sadaqah (charity), and they will be required to make up the missed fasts.

Conclusion

Fidya is a vital aspect of Islamic teachings that ensures inclusivity and compassion for those unable to fast during Ramadan. Whether due to chronic illness, old age, or other valid reasons, paying Fidya allows individuals to meet their religious obligations while supporting the less fortunate.

As Ramadan approaches, take a moment to reflect on your responsibilities and consult trusted scholars or organisations to calculate and distribute Fidya appropriately. May Allah (SWT) accept our efforts and grant blessings to all who observe this important practice.