How to make the most of Ramadan if unable to fast
As women, there are many reasons why we may be unable to fast during Ramadan, whether that is due to illness, pregnancy/breastfeeding* or simply menstruation. It can sometimes feel like this topic is brushed to one side: there is an assumption that we are aware of other things that we can be doing, and the topic is skimmed over, leaving us feeling isolated. Here is why you should not feel guilty about not fasting if unfit to do so, along with some different ways that you can get closer to Allah (SWT) this Ramadan.
Reminder of the rulings
Before we get into this blog, I would like to highlight some rulings and advice regarding this topic:
1. *Pregnant/breastfeeding women are exempt from fasting if doing so could harm their health or their baby’s, but the missed fasts must be made up later. Despite this, many women still choose to fast - this is a personal decision where you should seek advice from both a scholar and a health professional*.
2. During menstruation, women cannot pray salah, fast, or touch the Quran. According to most schools, they also cannot recite the Quran although it is permissible to recite verses of the Quran that are duas or dhikr (e.g. ayat al-kursi).
Although pregnant and ill women can pray and recite the Qur’an, this blog purposefully covers alternatives that apply to everyone. This way, we all benefit.
Remove the guilt
You may feel disappointed about being unable to fast during Ramadan - that's okay, don’t worry, but perhaps you will find comfort in knowing that Aisha (RA) experienced a similar situation. When distressed about menstruating during Hajj, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ pointed out, “this is a matter Allah has decreed for all the daughters of Adam”.
If you are genuinely unable to fast, that is because Allah has ordained for you to be in that position. I know that it can feel confusing but ultimately, you have been put into that condition by Al-Alim (the All-Knowing) and there is divine knowledge as to why you are there. You may not understand it now, but it could make sense later, so trust Allah and avoid comparing yourself to others.
Engage in alternative forms of worship
It's possible to continue to strengthen your spiritual connection without fasting. Dhikr, listening to the Quraan and sadaqah (charity) are valuable ways we can continue to remember Allah during these circumstances.
The very act of helping a fasting person to open their fast merits the same reward as if we were to have completed that fast. We often forget how compassionate Allah truly is - there are countless ways we can be rewarded simply by having pure intentions and wanting to do good.
Seek Islamic knowledge
Educating yourself on Islam is something we can often forget about, which is highly powerful, nevertheless. We are encouraged to seek knowledge as Muslims, a particularly important message in today’s world, as it is easier than ever to avoid critical thinking.
The Muslimah website event page highlights free Islamic events open to Muslim women to aid them in their endeavour to seek knowledge and build community. This is the perfect way to meet like-minded women in a positive environment.
Foster the spirit of fasting
Fasting allows people to build taqwa and discipline; outcomes which could also be achieved by controlling your desires. Refraining from backbiting, increasing consistency of ibadah, and doing dhikr instead of mindlessly scrolling on your phone are all alternative ways of developing self-control.
Ramadan transcends the act of fasting: it is a month dedicated to getting closer to Allah, and that looks different for everyone. I hope that this blog allows you to feel less alone and that you take something away from it.
Replace the guilt with other acts of ibadah you can do instead, honouring the break from fasting so you can come back stronger in the future Insha'Allah.
