I did not observe Sawm (fasting)

Q: I used to not observe Sawm (fast) during the month of Ramadan from 1364 to 1371 A.H. I was then nineteen years old. The reason for doing so was that I worked as a shepherd in the desert - Your Eminence knows how hot those days were bearing in mind that I would shepherd from sunrise to sunset on foot. Afterwards, I observed Sawm for two months and spent in charity sixty kilograms of rice. Moreover, I intend to observe Sawm for another four months and feed a needy person per day in addition. Please guide me to what is right.

A: You must observe Sawm making up for other months you missed and in addition feed a needy person half a Sa` (1 Sa`=3 kg. Approx.) of wheat or any other local staple foodstuff per day. Moreover, you have to repent to Allah and ask Him to pardon previous sins you gained through not observing Sawm for the number of months you mentioned. Thus, you should regret doing so, be determined not to do it again and admit your sins. Allah (Exalted be He) said: Say: "O ‘Ibâdî (My slaves) who have transgressed against themselves (by committing evil deeds and sins)! Despair not of the Mercy of Allâh: verily, Allâh forgives all sins. Truly He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (Part No. 10; Page No. 360) Mufassirs (exegetes of the Qur'an) view that those addressed by the Ayah (Qur'anic verse) are those who repent.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.