When it comes to pregnant women breaking their fast during Ramadan, Islamic scholars differ on the ruling of Kaffara (expiation). If a pregnant woman breaks her fast due to fear for herself or her baby, she must feed a needy person for each day she misses. This should be done promptly, as delaying Kaffara is not permissible. Additionally, she must make up the missed days after Ramadan.
The preferred form of expiation is feeding, as it fulfills the intention of the legislator. Some scholars argue against giving money as it may not ensure the needy purchase food. The amount of food to be given is estimated at 750 grams per day missed. A pregnant woman may transfer the value of Kaffara to another location if she wishes to support those in greater need.
Ibn Muflih Al-Hanbali states:
“It is permissible to transfer vows, expiations, and wills to other regions if deemed necessary.”
If a pregnant woman fears for herself or her fetus while fasting, the following rulings apply:
- Fear for herself and her baby: She must make up the fast without expiation.
- Fear only for her baby: She must make up the fast and provide expiation (feed a needy person for each missed day).
Detailed Ruling on Pregnant Women Fasting During Ramadan
Islam provides leniencies in fasting to remove hardship, such as for travelers and the sick, as stated in the Quran:
“But if any of you is ill or on a journey, the same number (should be made up) from other days.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:184)
Pregnant women are included in these exceptions under specific conditions:
- If fasting poses a threat to her life or health: She is obligated to break her fast and make up the missed days without expiation.
- If fasting harms the fetus but not herself: She must make up the fast and provide expiation.
Expiation for Pregnant Women Breaking the Fast
Scholars differ regarding the obligation of expiation for pregnant women:
- Hanafi and Maliki Schools: No expiation is required as pregnancy is directly connected to the woman’s body, and her fear for the fetus is akin to concern for her own body.
- Hanbali and Shafi’i Schools: Expiation is required in addition to making up the fast if the woman breaks her fast out of concern for her child. This is supported by the narration of Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him):“A pregnant or nursing woman who fears for their child should pay the expiation and make up the fasts later.” (Reported by Al-Daraqutni)
Conclusion:
Islamic rulings emphasize ease and flexibility for pregnant women during Ramadan. If fasting poses any risk to the mother or child, breaking the fast is permitted, and expiation ensures the spirit of charity and care for the needy.
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