What Is Fidya?

Fidya is an important concept in Islam that refers to a compensation or penalty for not being able to fast during the holy month of Ramadan.

We will explore the meaning of Fidya, who is eligible to pay it, how it is calculated, and its significance in the Islamic faith.

Understanding Fasting in Ramadan

Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, and it is considered an obligation for all adult Muslims who are healthy and not traveling. The fast begins at dawn and ends at sunset, during which time Muslims are required to abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs.

Fasting is intended to demonstrate devotion, discipline, and submission to Allah, as well as to encourage empathy for those who are less fortunate and to develop spiritual awareness

In Quran Allah Says

يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ ٱلصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى ٱلَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ ١٨٣

O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous – (2:183)

Who is Eligible to Pay Fidya?

Fidya is only applicable to those who are exempt from fasting due to a valid reason. According to Islamic jurisprudence, the following groups of people are eligible to pay Fidya:

Elderly People

Elderly people who are unable to fast due to old age and weakness are eligible to pay Fidya.

Chronically Ill Individuals

People who have a chronic illness that makes it difficult for them to fast are eligible for Fidya.

Pregnant and Nursing Women

Pregnant and nursing women who cannot fast due to the risk of harm to themselves or their child are eligible for Fidya.

Travelers

People who are traveling and cannot fast due to the hardship of travel are eligible for Fidya.

What is Fidya?

Fidya is a compensation for not being able to fast during Ramadan. It is an obligation on those who are eligible to pay it. Fidya is a monetary amount that is paid to the poor and needy, and it is equivalent to the cost of feeding one person for one day. The purpose of Fidya is to provide a way for individuals who cannot fast to fulfill their religious obligation and to support those in need.

 Calculating Fidya

The amount of calculating Fidya to be paid varies depending on the region and the cost of food in that area. In general, the value of Fidya is equivalent to the cost of feeding one person for one day.

For instance, in 2023, the Fidya in the United States is $5 per day. If a person cannot fast for the whole month of Ramadan, they will have to pay Fidya for 30 days, which would amount to $150.

Note: This Fidya amount is not fixed it depend on the location and food items in that location

When should Fidya be paid?

 Fidya can also be paid on behalf of someone who has passed away and was not able to fulfill their fasting obligations during Ramadan.

The payment of Fidya is typically made after the month of Ramadan has ended, and it is recommended to pay it as soon as possible. However, if someone is unable to pay Fidya immediately, they can do so at a later time as long as they make up the missed days of fasting before the next Ramadan.

The amount of Fidya that is required to be paid is calculated based on the cost of feeding one person for one day. This amount is typically adjusted annually to reflect changes in the cost of living. The current amount of Fidya is equivalent to the cost of providing two meals a day to one person for each day missed.

It is important to note that Fidya should be paid with sincerity and a genuine desire to fulfill one’s religious obligations. It should not be seen as a way to avoid fasting or as a burden to be avoided. Instead, it should be viewed as a means of expressing compassion and generosity towards those in need and fulfilling one’s religious duties in the best possible way.

Significance of Fidya

Fidya has significant importance in the Islamic faith. It provides a way for individuals who cannot fast due to certain reasons to fulfill their religious obligation. Additionally, Fidya serves as a means of supporting those in need. The money collected from Fidya is distributed among the poor and needy.

The distribution of Fidya is one of the most significant acts of charity in Islam, and it is considered a form of Zakat, or obligatory alms-giving. The distribution of Fidya is intended to help those who are less fortunate and to provide for their basic needs. It is a way of expressing compassion, kindness, and generosity, which are essential values in Islam.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Fidya is an essential concept in Islam that provides a way for individuals who are unable to fast during Ramadan to fulfill their religious obligation. It serves as a compensation for not being able to fast and supports those in need.

The amount of Fidya varies depending on the cost of food in the region and is equivalent to the cost of feeding one person for one day. Fidya is distributed among the poor and needy, and it is considered a form of Zakat. By paying Fidya, Muslims can express their compassion, kindness, and generosity towards those in need.

Also Read: Spiritual Benefits Of Ramadan Through Zikr And Wazifa