Fiqh of Ramadan

Instructor: Shaikh Asim Kazi

 

Course Overview

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence) of Ramadan, covering the religious, legal, and spiritual aspects of fasting. 

The month of Ramadan holds a unique place in Islamic tradition, as it is the time when the Qur'an was first revealed, and it serves as an opportunity for Muslims to seek closeness to Allah, increase in worship, and attain forgiveness. 

This two part course explains the rules, obligations, and wisdom surrounding fasting, moon sighting, Laylatul Qadr, and other key topics.

 

Course Objectives

By the end of this two part course, students will be able to:

  • Understand the significance of Ramadan in light of the Qur'an and Sunnah.

  • Analyze the jurisprudential rulings on fasting, including obligatory, voluntary, and compensatory fasting.

  • Examine the conditions and requirements for a valid fast, including the correct intention (niyyah) and what breaks a fast.

  • Study the various scholarly opinions regarding moon sighting, its global vs. local implications, and its impact on determining the start and end of Ramadan.

  • Explore the virtues of Laylatul Qadr, how to seek it, and the significance of prayers and worship during the last ten nights.

  • Differentiate between the categories of those required to fast, those exempted, and those with special dispensations (e.g., travelers, pregnant women, the sick, and the elderly).

  • Assess the impact of fasting beyond spiritual aspects, including its social, economic, and political dimensions in the life of a Muslim.

  • Identify key rulings on missed fasts, expiation (fidya and kaffara), and making up (qada) fasts.





Course Topics

  • Introduction to the Fiqh of Ramadan

  • The Obligation of Fasting: Qur'anic evidence, Hadith, and scholarly consensus

  • Types of Fasting: Obligatory (Fard), recommended (Mandub), and expiatory (Kaffara)

  • Conditions for Fasting: Who must fast and who is exempt?

  • The Role of Intention (Niyyah) in Fasting

  • Moon Sighting: Global vs. local debates and its impact on the start of Ramadan

  • Laylatul Qadr: The Night of Power and its significance

  • Acts That Nullify the Fast: Eating, drinking, intentional breaking, and more

  • The Spiritual Dimensions of Ramadan: Strengthening faith and attaining taqwa

  • Common Misconceptions and Controversies in Fasting

  • Fasting Beyond Ramadan: The importance of voluntary fasts (e.g., Shawwal, Arafah, Ashura)

Assessment & Engagement

  • Forum Discussions: Exploring contemporary issues related to fasting.  Addressing real-world scenarios involving fasting obligations.

  • Quiz (Optional) : A reflective quiz on how Ramadan can transform individual and societal behaviors.

Target Audience

This course is suitable for Muslim students of Islamic studies, scholars, and general learners who seek an introduction to the comprehensive understanding of the Fiqh of Ramadan from both classical and contemporary perspectives.

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Note: This course is a  structured two part assuming foundational knowledge of Islamic practice and terminology. Students are encouraged to engage in interactive forum discussions and practical application of the rulings discussed.