Fiqh for the Sick (Fiqh Bagi Pesakit)

Module Description

Muslims view illness and sickness as tribulations and trials from Allah s.w.t. Sickness is regarded as a kaffarah or expiations of sins. At the same time, Muslims are reminded to take care of their health as the wellness of their body is an amanah by Allah s.w.t. for them.

A healthy and strong believer is loved by Allah s.w.t and thus one should always strive to maintain one’s health and wellness. However, illness and sickness are inevitable in one’s life. Therefore, as Muslims, we are reminded to be prepared for any eventualities and that includes preparation in managing illness.

In this eight-hour engaging workshop, participants will be introduced to the Fiqh concept of rukhsah (exemption from general rulings) with special focus on issues faced by Muslims when they fall sick. From learning the ways on how one can perform the ablution or substitute it with tayammum, to understanding different methods of praying based on one’s health circumstances, this course will cover it all. This course will pay special focus to patients in hospitals and how best they can perform their obligatory prayers.

Beyond the issues of praying, this course will also discuss the issues of fasting when one is sick. Can the sick break their fast? What about those who can never fast in their lifetime - what can they do? This course is relevant for Muslims who wish to equip themselves with extended knowledge of Fiqh and is also highly applicable for healthcare workers and caregivers.

Module Outline (8 hours)

In this 8-credit hours' course, students will be covering the following topics:

• Understanding the Fiqh concept of rukhsah (exemptions from general rulings) for the sick

• Methods of performing tayammum due to surgical scar, bandage and other medical condition.

• Performing wudu’ (ablution) in special circumstances

• Performing prayer in various positions due to sickness

• Combining prayer (jama’) for the sick

• Contemporary medical issues, such as praying with a urine catheter

• The rulings on fasting when one is sick

• Supplications for the sick

Payment should be made directly to the mosque.