Lying while fasting

Q. Is the fast broken by lying?

A. To understand the answer to this question, we must first acknowledge that, like all other forms of ‘Ibaadah, fasting (Roza) possesses both an external and an internal dimension.

The external form is governed by specific physical requirements—known as the Arkaan of fasting. These include abstaining from food, drink, and marital relations from Subh-e-Saadiq (true dawn) until sunset, with the intention of fasting. If these conditions are fulfilled, the fast is considered Saheeh (valid). However, if any of these conditions are violated, the fast is broken and Qaza (making up the fast) or Kaffarah (expiation), depending on the case, becomes obligatory.

The internal form or spiritual essence of fasting is based on complete abstention from sin. This dimension is compromised when one engages in sinful behaviour, which runs contrary to the objective of fasting—namely, the cultivation of Taqwa (piety).

When this spiritual objective is undermined by sinful conduct, the fast is rendered spiritually ghair maqbul (unaccepted). This is the meaning behind the Hadith which states:

"Whoever does not refrain from false speech and evil deeds, Allah has no need for him to abstain from food and drink."

Here, false speech and evil deeds refer to sins such as lying, slandering, and backbiting.

Therefore, while lying does not break the fast in the sense that Qaza is not required (as the external Arkaan remain intact), it does render the fast spiritually void. In such a case, the individual forfeits the reward of fasting, and the fast becomes a lifeless form devoid of spiritual benefit.

[English version of "Mentir pendant le jeûne" – Al Haadi – Vol. 2 No. 3]