A man came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and said, "I have been ruined for I have had sexual relation with my wife in Ramadan (while I was fasting)" The Prophet (ﷺ) said (to him), "Manumit a slave." The man said, " I cannot afford that." The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "(Then) fast for two successive months continuously". The man said, "I cannot do that." The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "(Then) feed sixty poor persons." The man said, "I have nothing (to feed them with)." Then a big basket full of dates was brought to the Prophet. The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Where is the questioner? Go and give this in charity." The man said, "(Shall I give this in charity) to a poorer person than l? By Allah, there is no family in between these two mountains (of Medina) who are poorer than we." The Prophet (ﷺ) then smiled till his premolar teeth became visible, and said, "Then (feed) your (family with it).
Hadith Commentary: Expiation for Sexual Intercourse During Ramadan
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 6087 in the Book of Good Manners and Form (Al-Adab) presents a profound lesson in divine mercy, practical jurisprudence, and the Prophet's compassionate leadership.
The Legal Ruling (Hukm)
Sexual intercourse during fasting hours in Ramadan invalidates the fast and requires expiation (kaffārah). The Prophet prescribed the same expiation as for breaking an oath: freeing a slave, fasting two consecutive months, or feeding sixty poor people - in descending order of preference.
This graduated approach demonstrates Islam's consideration for human circumstances, offering alternatives when the primary option is unfeasible.
Divine Mercy in Legislation
The sequential reduction of requirements - from freeing a slave to feeding sixty poor - reveals Allah's mercy. When the man couldn't afford any expiation, the Prophet provided the means himself, showing that Allah does not burden a soul beyond its capacity.
The Prophet's Smile and Final Ruling
The Prophet's smile upon hearing the man's sincere declaration of poverty reflects his understanding of human nature. His final instruction to feed his own family transforms the expiation into provision, demonstrating that Allah's mercy encompasses all circumstances.
This incident teaches that sincerity and truthfulness can become means of divine assistance, and that Islamic law always considers human capability and circumstance.