Question
What is the ruling of the fasting person if they eat forgetfully after the intention?
Answer
If a fasting person eats, drinks, or has sexual relations forgetfully during obligatory or voluntary fasting after the intention, their fast is not invalidated, and forgetfulness is considered a reason for the fast to remain valid in all cases. Whoever does any of the things that break the fast forgetfully does not break their fast, whether the fast is obligatory or voluntary, and whether the breaking of the fast occurs before or after the intention in Ramadan. Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever eats forgetfully while he is fasting, let him complete his fast, for what he has been fed and given to drink is from Allah." This is found in Sahih al-Bukhari 6: 2455, and Sahih Muslim 2: 809, and Al-Muntaka 1: 105. Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) also reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever breaks their fast in the month of Ramadan forgetfully, there is no expiation upon him and no compensation." This is found in Sahih Ibn Hibban 8: 287, and Al-Mustadrak 1: 595 and was authenticated, and Ibn Hajar also authenticated it in Bulugh al-Maram. See: I'la al-Sunan 9: 130.