Is the personal exertion (ijtihad) of the questioner—in the form of fasting and charity—sufficient to atone for his past sins, and how can he regain Allah's pleasure and the tranquility of his soul?

According to the majority of scholars, and this is the most preponderant view, one must make up for the days they intentionally broke their fast during Ramadan due to masturbation. The Malikis, however, hold that expiation is obligatory for anyone who intentionally consumes any fast-breaking item, thereby violating the sanctity of the fast, such as eating, drinking, and masturbation if semen is discharged. Repentance and striving are sufficient for atonement for sins, along with making up for all missed fast days and being cautious in estimating them. It is preferable and more prudent to offer expiation for all missed fast days, out of consideration for the Maliki school of thought. According to them, expiation is offered in an ordered choice, the best of which is feeding sixty poor persons for each day.