Authored by: Sheikh Mubashar Ahmad Rabbani (May Allah preserve him)
Allah knows best!
Question:
If someone has missed obligatory fasts of Ramadan, can they observe voluntary fasts, such as the six fasts of Shawwal, the fasts of the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, or the fast of Ashura, before making up their missed fasts?Answer:
According to the most correct opinion of scholars, a person who owes missed obligatory fasts of Ramadan must first make up those fasts before observing any voluntary fasts. This is because fulfilling obligations takes precedence over voluntary acts.Evidence:
- Scholarly Consensus:
Sheikh Ibn Baz (رحمه الله) stated:
"It is obligatory to make up missed Ramadan fasts before observing voluntary fasts because obligations are more important than voluntary deeds."
(Majmu’ Fatawa Ibn Baz, 15/392) - Principle of Prioritizing Obligations:
Islam emphasizes completing obligatory duties before engaging in optional acts of worship. This ensures that one fulfills what Allah has commanded before seeking additional rewards through supererogatory actions.
Practical Guidance:
- Order of Fasting:
- First, complete any missed obligatory fasts of Ramadan.
- After completing the obligatory fasts, one may observe voluntary fasts such as:
- Six fasts of Shawwal (for the reward of fasting the entire year).
- The fasts of Dhul-Hijjah (especially the Day of Arafah).
- The fast of Ashura (to expiate sins).
- Exceptions:
If there is sufficient time to make up missed fasts and still observe voluntary fasts within their recommended periods (e.g., Shawwal or Ashura), then one may choose to prioritize voluntary fasts but should not delay making up missed obligatory fasts unnecessarily.
Conclusion:
It is recommended and correct to prioritize making up missed Ramadan fasts before observing voluntary fasts. This reflects the importance of fulfilling obligatory duties in Islam, as they hold greater weight and are a means of earning Allah’s pleasure.Allah knows best!