Kaffarah Rules for Deliberately Eating or Drinking While Fasting
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Fasting in Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. But what happens if someone deliberately eats or drinks while fasting?
Does Kaffarah apply?
Is Qada enough?
What if someone regrets it immediately?
In this comprehensive guide, we explain the Kaffarah rules for deliberately eating or drinking while fasting, when expiation becomes obligatory, and how to fulfil it correctly.
What Is Kaffarah in Ramadan?
Kaffarah is a major expiation required when a person intentionally breaks a Ramadan fast without a valid Islamic excuse.
It is not the same as Qada (making up a missed fast). Kaffarah is a penalty tied to deliberate violation.
Does Kaffarah Apply for Deliberately Eating or Drinking?
Yes.
If a person:
- Knows it is Ramadan
- Is fasting
- Is not ill or travelling
- Intentionally eats or drinks
Then Kaffarah is required, according to the majority of scholars.
This is because the fast was broken deliberately without valid reason.
What Must Be Done After Deliberately Breaking the Fast?
If someone intentionally eats or drinks during fasting hours, they must:
- Repent sincerely (Tawbah)
- Complete the fast for that day (according to many scholars)
- Make up the fast later (Qada)
- Perform Kaffarah
All four steps are important.
What Is the Kaffarah Amount?
Kaffarah for deliberately breaking a Ramadan fast requires one of the following:
Option 1 – Fast 60 Consecutive Days
The person must fast 60 days continuously without interruption.
If they break the sequence without valid reason, they must restart.
Option 2 – Feed 60 Poor People
If unable to fast 60 consecutive days due to health or other valid reasons, they must feed 60 poor individuals.
In the UK, this is commonly calculated as:
£5 × 60 = £300 per deliberately broken fast (approximate charitable rate).
Is Kaffarah Required for Every Day?
If someone deliberately breaks multiple fasts on different days, Kaffarah may apply for each day separately.
Scholarly opinions differ slightly on repetition cases, so consultation with a qualified scholar is recommended.
When Kaffarah Does NOT Apply
Kaffarah is not required if:
- You forgot and ate accidentally
- You were genuinely ill
- You were travelling
- You were forced
- You misunderstood the time (e.g., believed Maghrib had started)
In these cases, only Qada may be required — not Kaffarah.
Difference Between Qada and Kaffarah
It is crucial to understand:
- Qada = Making up the missed fast later
- Kaffarah = Major expiation for deliberate violation
Deliberately eating or drinking requires both Qada and Kaffarah.
What If Someone Regrets Immediately?
Even if a person eats intentionally and regrets it right away:
- The fast is invalid
- Qada is required
- Kaffarah still applies
However, sincere repentance removes sin in the sight of Allah.
The Seriousness of Deliberate Fast Breaking
Ramadan is a sacred month. Intentionally breaking a fast without excuse is considered a major sin in Islamic law.
Kaffarah serves as:
- Spiritual purification
- Serious accountability
- Reminder of the sanctity of Ramadan
FAQs: Kaffarah Rules for Deliberately Eating or Drinking
1. Is Kaffarah required for drinking water intentionally?
Yes. Any intentional eating or drinking during fasting hours requires Kaffarah.
2. What if I only took a small bite?
Even a small amount intentionally consumed invalidates the fast and triggers Kaffarah.
3. Do I still fast the rest of that day?
Most scholars say you should continue refraining from food and drink out of respect for Ramadan.
4. What if I cannot afford to feed 60 poor people?
If physically able, you must fast 60 consecutive days instead.
5. Does Kaffarah apply outside Ramadan?
No. Kaffarah of this type applies specifically to breaking obligatory Ramadan fasts.
6. Is Kaffarah required for breaking a voluntary fast?
No. Voluntary fasts only require Qada if broken intentionally.
7. Can I pay Kaffarah online?
Yes. Many trusted charities distribute food to eligible poor recipients on your behalf.
Final Summary
If you deliberately eat or drink while fasting in Ramadan:
- The fast becomes invalid
- You must repent
- You must make up the fast (Qada)
- You must perform Kaffarah
Kaffarah requires either fasting 60 consecutive days or feeding 60 poor people.
If unsure about your specific situation, consult a qualified Islamic scholar to ensure you fulfil your obligation correctly.
Understanding these rules helps preserve the sanctity of Ramadan and ensures that religious duties are carried out properly.
Pay Your Kaffarah Through IslamFreedom.org
If you need to fulfil your Kaffarah for deliberately breaking a fast, you can donate securely through www.islamfreedom.org.
IslamFreedom.org distributes your Kaffarah to eligible poor families, helping provide essential food support while ensuring your religious obligation is fulfilled correctly.
If you are unable to fast 60 consecutive days, feeding 60 poor people through a trusted charity is a valid way to complete your Kaffarah. If unsure about your situation, consult a qualified scholar before making payment.
