What is Fidyah?
Fidyah is a religious compensation in Islam for those who are unable to fast during Ramadan due to valid reasons such as chronic illness or old age. Instead of fasting, they must feed a poor person for each missed day, following the guidance in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:184). The amount is typically based on staple food like rice or wheat and should be given as soon as possible.
Fidyah ensures that those unable to fast still contribute to the community, upholding the values of charity and social responsibility in Islam. If a person later recovers and can fast, they must make up the missed days instead. This system reflects Islam’s emphasis on mercy and flexibility in fulfilling religious duties.
"Fast a prescribed number of days. But whoever of you is ill or on a journey, then let them fast an equal number of days after Ramaḍân.
For those who can only fast with extreme difficulty, compensation can be made by feeding a needy person for every day not fasted.
But whoever volunteers to give more, it is better for them. And to fast is better for you, if only you knew."
- Quran 2:184
