Kaffaarah for having intercourse with one's wife while fasting in the month of Ramadhaan

Q: About 8 years ago, I had sexual intercourse with my wife while fasting in the month of Ramadaan. I didn't know that time if this was a violation or haraam or if there is any kaffara that needs to be paid. Later I have realized that I might've made a mistake or committed a sin. So I would like to ask what shall I do now? Is there any kaffara that needs to be paid r just ask forgiveness from Allah?

A: Having relations in the state of fasting is a major sin which causes the fast to be nullified.

You and your wife will have to keep the qadha of the broken fast as well as fulfill the kafaarah.

The kafaarah is to fast for two consecutive lunar months as compensation for the sin. If one starts on the first of the lunar month, then one will fast for two complete months regardless of whether the lunar months are 29 or 30 days.

However, if one commences the kafaarah on the second of the lunar month or any other time of the month, then one will have to keep 60 fast consecutively.

NB. One will have to keep the kafaarah of two months consecutively without the month of Ramadaan coming in between.

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

 

Answered by:

Mufti Zakaria Makada

Checked & Approved:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)