Hadith Text

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "If somebody eats something forgetfully while he is fasting, then he should complete his fast, for Allah has made him eat and drink."

Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 6669

Commentary on the Hadith

This noble hadith from the Book of Oaths and Vows in Sahih al-Bukhari establishes a fundamental principle in Islamic jurisprudence regarding forgetfulness during acts of worship. The Prophet (ﷺ) clarifies that unintentional eating or drinking while fasting does not invalidate the fast.

The wisdom behind this ruling demonstrates Allah's mercy and the ease of this religion. Forgetfulness is a human condition that Allah does not hold accountable. The phrase "for Allah has made him eat and drink" indicates that this action occurred outside the person's conscious will and intention.

Scholars have derived from this that acts of worship are based on intention and consciousness. When a fasting person eats or drinks forgetfully, their fast remains valid because the essential element of intentional breaking is absent. They must simply continue their fast until completion.

This ruling applies only to genuine forgetfulness, not to deliberate actions. The moment one remembers they are fasting, they must immediately cease eating or drinking. This hadith serves as a comfort to Muslims who might accidentally break their fast, assuring them of Allah's understanding of human nature.

Legal Rulings Derived

• Forgetful eating/drinking does not break the fast

• The fasting person must continue their fast upon realization

• No expiation (kafarah) is required for such incidents

• This ruling reflects the principle that actions are judged by intentions

• Applies to all obligatory and voluntary fasts