Ramadan is a holy month that is observed by Muslims all over the world. Fasting during this month is mandatory for all healthy Muslims who have reached puberty. However, there are valid exemptions that can be availed by individuals who cannot fast due to illness or other reasons. Hussein Al Ahdal, Grand Mufti at Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, sheds light on what may or may not invalidate fasting during Ramadan.
According to Grand Mufti Al Ahdal, there are two categories of actions that can break a fast during Ramadan. The first category refers to ingesting something, such as eating, drinking, taking medicine or vitamin injections. The second category refers to acts such as sexual intimacy, menstruation, vomiting, using ear drops, eye drops and nose drops.
It is important to note that unintentional consumption of food or drink during fasting does not break the fast. In case an individual accidentally eats or drinks while fasting, the fast remains valid. However, if an individual intentionally eats or drinks, then the fast is broken and must be made up for by fasting before the next holy month, or offering appropriate redemption if fasting is not possible.
Chewing gum or smoking during fasting is not allowed as it breaks the fast. However, nicotine patches are permitted. It is also permissible to take intravenous or muscular injections and insulin injections during fasting. But taking a nutritional injection nullifies the fast.
In the case of brushing teeth during fasting, it is discouraged to use toothpaste and a brush as the paste can reach the throat. However, if the paste does not reach the throat, it does not break the fast. It is better to use a miswak, which is a teeth-cleaning twig, during the fasting hours to brush teeth and eliminate bad breath.
Grand Mufti Al Ahdal advises Muslims to be aware of what can break their fast and to take precautions to avoid invalidating it. If an individual is unable to fast due to illness or other reasons, they are excused from fasting. They can make up for the missed days by fasting before the next holy month, or offering appropriate redemption if fasting is not possible.
In conclusion, it is important to understand the rules of fasting during Ramadan to avoid invalidating it. Grand Mufti Al Ahdal has provided clarity on what may or may not invalidate fasting during Ramadan, and it is advised that Muslims follow these guidelines to ensure their fast remains valid.
