Combining Making up a Missed Ramadan Fast with Fasting Ashura?

Question: Can I make up a missed Ramadan fast on the day of ‘Ashura and still get the reward for both?

Praise to Allah

Summary of Answer:

If someone intends to perform a recommended (mustahabb) action, it won’t count as an obligatory action. For example, if a person fasts with the intention of ‘Ashura, it won’t count as making up a missed Ramadan fast. However, if they intend to make up a missed Ramadan fast on the day of ‘Ashura, then the missed fast will be valid. Some scholars hope that the person will also receive the reward for ‘Ashura. InshaAllah

Detailed Answer:

Combining Obligatory and Recommended Actions:

• Dual Intentions: If you intend to make up a missed Ramadan fast on the day of ‘Ashura, the missed fast will be valid. Some scholars believe you might also get the reward for fasting on ‘Ashura.
• Intention Matters: If you fast with the intention of ‘Ashura (a recommended fast), it won’t count as making up for a missed Ramadan fast (an obligatory action).

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen (may Allah have mercy on him) explained that if a person fasts on days like ‘Arafah or ‘Ashura while still owing Ramadan fasts, they will get the reward for both making up the missed fast and for the special day fast.

Practical Advice:

• Prioritize Obligatory Fasts: It’s best to make up missed obligatory fasts first.
• Special Days: If you don’t have enough time to make up all missed fasts and you have a chance to fast on a special day like ‘Ashura or ‘Arafah, you can fast to make up the missed fast. There’s hope you will also get the reward for fasting on these virtuous days, as Allah’s bounty is immense.

And Allah Knows Best