Breaking One’s Fast by Masturbation and the Emission of Pre-Ejaculate in Maliki School – Shaykh Rami Nsour

Answered by Shaykh Rami Nsour

Question: As-Salāmu `Alaykum

Before converting to Islam I masturbated regularly. I understand it is prohibited in Islam and I have tried to cut down. However, sometimes I slip into old habits and give in to my desires.

My question is, in Ramadan, if one was to masturbate in the Maliki school would they have to pay a kaffarah i.e. feed 60 people? I’m aware that I would have to make up the fast at a later date.

I also wished to ask that does the emission of madhi voluntary or involuntary require someone to do ghusl in the Maliki school, or would ablution suffice? Would this too invalidate ones fast?

I apologize for asking such questions, but I couldn’t ask this openly to my teachers.

Answer: No apology needed about asking this question as blameworthy modesty is that which prevents on from asking questions about the religion. You have taken a great step in asking this question.

Penalty (Kaffara) For Ejaculation of Fluid

If one were to intentionally cause the ejaculation of sexual fluid (many or madhy) during the daytime of a fast, then that fast would be invalid. The person would have to make up that fast and pay a penalty (kaffara) which would be either fasting 60 days consecutively, feeding 60 people or freeing a Muslim slave. One kaffara would be done for every day that was broken. (Khalil, Al-Mukhtasar)

Cowper’s Fluid (madhy)

The emission of madhy would only require washing of the entire penis and would not require a full shower (ghusl). The emission of madhy would require wudu and would invalidate the fast if the person did something intentionally to cause it to come out. If one knows that by looking, thinking or touching that madhy will exit and it does, then the fast is broken and must be made up. (Dusuqi, Hashiyatul Sharh al Kabir)

Advice to Break the Habit

I advise you to seek whatever help you need in breaking the habit that you have formed. Regular fasting throughout the year can help you do this. Recitation of Sura Al Tariq also aids in prevention of this type of habit (Zarruq, Naseeha). A reduction in tasty foods may also help. Delaying the shaving of the pubic hair will also reduce desire, but it should be shaved at least once every 40 days. One should never look or touch the private area unless there is need, such as cleaning after urination, and should do so in as short time as possible.

Rami

*Note: In the Hanafi school masturbation resulting in ejaculation invalidates the fast but doesn’t require expiation (kaffara). Rather, it is obligatory to (1) make up the fast and (2) sincerely repent.

Related Answers:

Is Expiation Required for Masturbating While Fasting? (Hanafi)

Is Masturbation Sinful and How Do I Stop?

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