Page 59 - Demo

What are the general rulings on the permissibility of a pregnant or nursing mother to break the fast?In general, there is an allowance for pregnant and nursing women to break the fast. There is a general evidence that comes from the same ayah that applies to those in very old age:%u201c...compensation can be made by feeding a needy person %u02f9for every day not fasted%u02fa. But whoever volunteers to give more, it is better for them%u2026%u201d [Al-Baqarah, 2:184]There is a report narrated by Abu Dawood from ibn 'Abbas concerning the verse:%u201cAnd as for those who can fast with difficulty, (e.g. an old man), they have (a choice either to fast or) to feed a Miskeen (poor person) (for every day)%u201d [Al-Baqarah, 2:184]Ibn 'Abbas said: This was a concession granted to old men and women who are able to fast but with difficulty, they have the option of not fasting and feeding one poor person for each day instead. [al-Nawawi classified its isnad as hasan]Are pregnant and nursing mothers allowed to not fast without making a prior attempt to fast?No, especially for first time mothers. If she feels healthy, she must attempt to fast, and if she later feels difficulty, she should stop.For subsequent pregnancies, if the woman knows from past experience that she will experience difficulty, then she is not required to attempt to fast.What is the ruling for pregnant women who are advised not to fast by their Muslim doctors due to the nature of the pregnancy and its possible affect on the baby?In this case, she is allowed to not fast without having to make a prior attempt.Copyright %u00a9 2023 Islamic Association of Raleigh. All rights reserved. 59Pregnant, Nursing, & Menstruating