What is Fidya in Islam?

The world is temporary, and its affairs are fleeting. Yet, most humans strive hard to gain and accumulate wealth to ease their mortal lives. For believers, the afterlife is far more important. Yet, Allah (SWT) has placed numerous rewards for those willing to strive in His way. The month of Ramadan opens the gate for great blessings. Ramadan is marked with devotion manifested in many forms, such as prayers, supplications, charity, and fasting. Fasting is the third pillar of Islam and is obligatory for all adult Muslims.  

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “(Allah said), ‘Every good deed of Adam’s son is for him except fasting; it is for Me. and I shall reward (the fasting person) for it.’ Verily, the smell of the mouth of a fasting person is better to Allah than the smell of musk.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 5927)

Fasting brings great rewards and virtues. However, some people miss out on fasting due to advanced age, physical frailty, or chronic illness. For such people, there is an exemption provided that they compensate for their lack of ability to fast. The purpose of Fidya in Islam is inclusivity. While it keeps the old and the weak eligible for the blessings of Ramadan, it facilitates the poor and the needy. In this article, we will discuss the meaning of Fidya and see its eligibility criteria.

Pay Fidya Online

What is Fidya?

Fidya is an amount that can be paid for missing out on fasting in Ramadan. The Quran sets the general rules for Fidya in Islam in the following verses:

“[Fasting 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.” (Surat Al-Baqarah, 2:184)

Why does Fidya Exist?

Fidya exists because Allah (SWT) is magnanimous, and He doesn’t want anyone to miss out on the blessings of Ramadan. The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

‘Indeed, this religion is easy, and no one will ever overburden himself in religion, except that it will overcome him. So seek what is appropriate, and come as close as you can, and receive the glad tidings (that you will be rewarded), and take it easy; and gain strength by worshipping in the mornings, afternoons, and during the last hours of the nights.'” (Sunan an-Nasa’I, 5034)

Another purpose of Fidya is to facilitate the poor and the needy so that they can also participate in the blessings of Ramdan.

Eligibility for Fidya in Islam

It must be remembered that Fidya is an option only for those whose age and health don’t allow them to participate in fasting during Ramdan. The following category of people are not eligible for Fidya in Islam:

–          Those who have a temporary illness.

–          Those who have broken their fast deliberately or accidentally.

–          Also Those who can recover their health.

It is important to remember that missed fasts should be made up once the individual is well, even if the Fidya amount has already been given. In this case, Allah will reward the Fidya contribution as Sadaqah.

How much is the Fidya for Ramadan 2025

The Fidya amount is given for each missed fast. It covers the cost of feeding a deserving person for a day or two deserving persons for either Sahur or Iftar. The standard amount for this donation is around PKR 500 for every missed fast. However, one should be as generous as possible to be eligible for Allah (SWT)’s endless blessings. The Quran says:

“Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He may multiply it for him many times over? And it is Allah who withholds and grants abundance, and to Him you will be returned. (Surat Al-Baqarah, 2:245)

For each Salah missed, the average price is 1.75 kgs of wheat/floor multiplied by six salwat (including the witr) per day.

Who Can Receive Fidya in Islam?

The eligibility criteria of Fidya is the same as Zakat. It can only be given to the following categories of Muslims:

• The Poor (Al-Fuqara)
• The Needy (Al-Masakeen)
• Organizations or people that collect Zakat
• New Muslims or people who want to convert (Mu’allafah Quloobuhum) 
• Freeing Slaves (Riqab)
• People in Debt (Al-Gharimeen)
• For the Cause of Allah (Fi Sabilillah)
• Travelers (Ibn Al-Sabeel)

Sometimes, it is difficult to evaluate and ascertain such criteria. Therefore, it is advisable to donate to organizations that work for the welfare of deserving Muslims. Ensure that the organization you choose works for a just cause and complies with Sharia law.

Why Donate to Transparent Hands?

Transparent Hands offers free medical and surgical care to Pakistan’s most deserving patients. We organize free medical camps and provide free surgeries and various treatments. We also offer secure and convenient online donation methods, enabling you to give your Zakat, Sadaqah, and Fidya with ease. Our unique crowdfunding platform ensures you know who you’re helping and how your contributions impact lives. You can change many lives and bring hope and light to their families.

Conclusion

Ramadan is a time for spiritual purification and self-reflection. It offers opportunities to achieve piety and devotion. Fasting is mandatory for all adult and sane Muslims, and it is a great way to achieve piety. However, not everyone can fast. Fidya plays a vital role in ensuring that individuals who are unable to fast due to health or age limitations are not excluded from the blessings of this holy month. By donating Fidya, we fulfill our religious obligations and extend our support to the less fortunate.

Transparent Hands ensures that our donations profoundly impact those who require support. Donate now.

Read more:

People Who Are Exempted From Fasting During Ramadan

The Best Ways to Donate During Ramadan