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Is it permissible to break the fast in Ramadan and feed the needy if fasting impedes work and causes aggression, even with children?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

Fasting is one of the pillars of Islam. It is not permissible for a mature, accountable Muslim to break their fast in Ramadan unless they are traveling a distance that permits shortening prayers, or are ill with a sickness that makes fasting difficult, delays recovery, or worsens their illness. Additionally, menstruating and post-natal women are permitted to break their fast. The fact that fasting impedes one's work or makes one aggressive towards their children does not permit breaking the fast. Rather, one must form the intention to fast at night. If one reaches an unbearable hardship or fears perishing, then they may break their fast and make up for it later. Fasting is an act of worship that makes a person feel for others, and a fasting person should be merciful and humble, especially with their children during this blessed month.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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