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27 / 04 / 2026
Fasting for the Deceased
My brother's wife, my cousin, passed away, and she had about (18) days of fasting that she owed. Her intention was to fast them if Allah healed her; however, she passed away. There is a hadith from the Prophet (peace be upon him): 'Whoever dies while owing fasting, his guardian should fast on his behalf.' I fasted on her behalf, so is that sufficient, or is it obligatory for her mother, father, sister, or son to fast for her, or is my fasting for her valid?
Answer
I say, and with God's help: It is not permissible for one to fast on behalf of another, nor for one to pray on behalf of another. However, it is recommended to pay a compensation for her, which is the equivalent of two dinars for each day. Your fasting on her behalf will reach her reward, as it is permissible to dedicate the reward to the deceased. The obligatory fasting on her behalf does not become void. And God knows best.
