Qada (قضاء) in Islam refers to making up missed religious obligations, such as prayers (Salah) and fasting (Sawm), that were not performed on time due to valid reasons like illness, travel, or forgetfulness. It reflects a believer’s commitment to fulfilling their duties and seeking Allah’s forgiveness. Qada is emphasized in the Quran and Hadith, ensuring that no worship is left incomplete.
Understanding Qada in Islam
Islam is a complete way of life, covering all aspects of a Muslim’s existence. One significant concept in Islamic jurisprudence is Qada (قضاء), which has a deep meaning in religious obligations. Every Muslim needs to understand Qada, its importance, and how it relates to acts of worship.
Qada Meaning
In Arabic, the term Qada (قضاء) means “fulfillment,” “execution,” or “completion.” In an Islamic context, Qada refers to making up for missed religious obligations. It is primarily used concerning missed prayers (Salah), fasting (Sawm), and other obligations that a person was unable to perform at their prescribed time.
Qada in the Quran and Hadith
The concept of Qada is derived from the Quran and Sunnah. Allah (SWT) states in the Quran:
“And establish prayer at the two ends of the day and at the approach of the night. Indeed, good deeds do away with misdeeds. That is a reminder for those who remember.” (Surah Hud 11:114)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also emphasized making up missed prayers:
“If one of you sleeps and misses a prayer, or forgets it, let him offer it when he remembers.” (Sahih Muslim 684)
From these references, it is evident that making up missed obligations is a fundamental aspect of Islamic practice.
Qada Context
Qada applies to different aspects of a Muslim’s life. It is most commonly associated with:
- Missed Salah (Prayer)
- Missed Sawm (Fasting)
- Missed Hajj (Pilgrimage)
- Unfulfilled Oaths and Promises
Islam acknowledges human limitations, such as sickness, travel, forgetfulness, or other valid reasons, which may prevent a Muslim from fulfilling their obligations on time. However, these acts must be compensated later.
Qada Example
1. Qada for Missed Prayers (Salah)
If a person misses their obligatory prayer, they should make it up as soon as possible. For example, if someone misses the Fajr prayer, they should offer it as soon as they wake up.
Example from Hadith:
“Whoever sleeps through a prayer or forgets it, let him pray it when he remembers, for there is no expiation for it except that.” (Sahih Muslim 684)
2. Qada for Missed Fasting (Sawm)
If a person is unable to fast during Ramadan due to sickness, travel, or menstruation, they must make up the missed fasts before the next Ramadan.
Example from the Quran:
“And whoever is ill or on a journey, then an equal number of days [are to be made up].” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185)
3. Qada for Missed Hajj
If someone had the means but failed to perform Hajj, it can be performed on their behalf by another person after their death.
4. Qada for Broken Oaths
If a person makes an oath but is unable to fulfill it, they must offer a kaffarah (expiation), such as feeding ten needy people or fasting for three days.
Qada Purpose
The primary purpose of Qada in Islam is to ensure that no obligation is neglected permanently. It is a means of:
- Seeking Allah’s Forgiveness: Making up missed acts of worship demonstrates sincerity and repentance.
- Fulfilling Religious Duties: Islam encourages believers to complete their responsibilities even if delayed.
- Spiritual Discipline: It fosters a sense of commitment and responsibility.
Qada and Qadar
Understanding Qada and Qadar in Islam
In Islamic theology, Qada (Divine Decree) and Qadar (Divine Predestination) are interconnected concepts related to Allah’s will. Qadar refers to Allah’s eternal knowledge and decree, while Qada is the execution of that decree.
Hadith on Qada and Qadar
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Everything happens according to Qadar, even wisdom and foolishness.” (Sahih Muslim 2655)
Difference Between Qada and Qadar
| Aspect | Qada | Qadar |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Execution of Divine Will | Predestination |
| Time Frame | Occurs in real-time | Already written by Allah |
| Human Role | Can act upon it (e.g., making up missed prayers) | Accepts it as Allah’s plan |
Qada Importance
- Spiritual Responsibility: It upholds a believer’s commitment to worship.
- Mercy and Flexibility: Islam allows believers to compensate for missed obligations.
- Accountability on the Day of Judgment: Qada ensures that a person does not face divine consequences for neglected duties.
Hadith on the Importance of Qada
“The first thing a person will be accountable for on the Day of Judgment is prayer. If it is in order, he will have succeeded. If it is lacking, he will be in loss.” (Tirmidhi 413)
Qada Prayer (Salah Qada)
How to Perform Qada Salah
- Intention (Niyyah): Before praying, make the intention that this is a Qada prayer.
- Follow the Same Format: The missed prayer should be offered in the same manner as it is regularly performed.
- Order of Prayers: If multiple prayers are missed, perform them in chronological order.
Example of Qada Fajr Prayer
- Perform 2 Rak’ahs of Fajr with the same recitations.
- Make the intention: “I am offering Qada of Fajr prayer for the sake of Allah.”
Conclusion
Qada is a crucial concept in Islam that ensures the completion of religious obligations. Whether it is missed Salah, fasting, or other duties, Islam provides a way to compensate for them. Understanding Qada helps Muslims maintain their faith and accountability before Allah. It reflects Allah’s mercy and the flexibility of Islamic law, allowing believers to repent and rectify their shortcomings.
By sincerely making up missed duties, a Muslim strengthens their connection with Allah and remain steadfast in their religious commitments. Let us strive to fulfill our obligations on time, and when missed, ensure they are compensated promptly.
