Others said that it is a matter of choice: we do not regard either breaking the fast or fasting as preferable.

The correct view is to distinguish between cases. If breaking the fast and fasting are equally manageable, then fasting is preferable for four reasons:

First, it was the practice of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, as stated in the hadith of Abu al-Darda, may Allah be pleased with him, who said: “We were with the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, on a day of intense heat, such that one of us would place his hand upon his head because of the severity of the heat. None of us was fasting except the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, and Abdullah ibn Rawahah.” (1)

Second, it discharges one’s obligation more quickly.

Third, it is easier for the legally responsible person, and whatever is easier is preferable.

Fourth, one thereby fasts during Ramadan itself, and Ramadan is superior to other times. Accordingly, we say that fasting is preferable.

But if fasting is difficult for him, then breaking the fast is preferable. The evidence for this is that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, was fasting while travelling, and he did not break his fast until he was told, “The people are finding fasting difficult, and they are waiting to see what you will do.” They had not broken their fast, seeking to follow the example of the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him. So the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, called for a cup of water after the afternoon prayer and raised it upon his thigh until the people saw him; then he drank while the people watched him, so that they might follow his example. Then someone came to him and said, “Some people are still fasting.” He said, peace and blessings be upon him: “They are the disobedient ones; they are the disobedient ones.” (2)