Qadha for fasts that one missed intentionally

Q: I didn't take my deen seriously. So, I didn't fast for three years. There was no reason behind it. Should I only do the qada of the fasts or a kaffara should be made?

A: Fasting is a great obligation and a salient feature of Islam. It is haraam for one to leave out fasting during the month of Ramadhaan without a valid excuse (e.g. sickness). Neglecting this obligation is a major sin. You should sincerely repent to Allah Ta'ala for leaving out this great obligation and make a firm resolve that you will never repeat this in the future. You will only have to make qadha for the missed fasts. Kaffaarah is not compulsory. For further details refer to http://muftionline.co.za/node/13

And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.

 

Answered by:

Mufti Zakaria Makada

Checked & Approved:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)