𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻'𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀 (322)

Ruling on a Mother Fasting on Behalf of Her Deceased Son if the Father Refuses Question: Is it permissible for a mother to fast on behalf of her (deceased) son if the father refuses to do so. Sheikh Rashād Adh-Dhali'ee ḥafidhahullāh answers: Yes, because the mother is one of his heirs (awliā'). ‏ ((مَنْ مَاتَ وَعَلَيْهِ صِيَامٌ صَامَ عَنْهُ وَلِيُّهُ)) "If anyone dies in a state (that he had to complete) some fasts, his heir must fast on his behalf." [1] The term Wali here refers to his relatives—his heirs who both inherit from him and from whom he inherits. Moreover, many scholars have permitted even a non-relative to fast on behalf of the deceased. This is because the validity of deputisation in physical acts of worship is supported by evidence, making it permissible for a non-relative to perform the fast on behalf of the deceased. _ [1] Reported by Bukhāri and Muslim on the authority of Ā'ishah (may Allāh be pleased with her)