What is the ruling regarding compelling a father afflicted with dementia, who neither prays nor fasts and whose actions are irrational, not to fast despite his ability and desire? Is it obligatory to pay the fidya (expiatory feeding) of a poor person on his behalf? Is it permissible for his children to uncover his 'awra (private parts) to cleanse him from impurities despite his reluctance? And what is the ruling regarding the children's angry reactions towards his actions?
If a parent reaches a state of dementia (kharaf), prayer and fasting are no longer obligatory for them, unless they regain lucidity for a sufficient duration during prayer times, in which case they must perform it.
The children would be committing a sin if they compelled him not to fast while he is lucid and capable. If the obligation of fasting is lifted due to loss of intellect, then no (expiatory payment) is due from him. However, if it is due to his inability while lucid, then the fidyah becomes obligatory from his wealth.
It is permissible to expose his 'awrah (private parts) for cleaning when necessary, limiting it to the extent of need.
It is forbidden for children to shout at the parent or raise a hand against him, as this is an act of disobedience (ʿuqūq) and one of the gravest major sins.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 84023
- Added here
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- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
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