—and thus it does not invalidate his fast. His fast remains sound and beyond reproach. However, if a Muslim has a wet dream while fasting and ejaculates, he must perform ghusl, the ritual bath required for major impurity.

Kissing and Physical Intimacy While Fasting
Question: It is authentically reported from ʿĀʾishah (may Allah be pleased with her) that she said, “The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to kiss while he was fasting and engage in physical intimacy while he was fasting.” Does this ruling on kissing apply to both the elderly and the young, or is it restricted to the elderly alone? What is the intent of the ḥadīth? May Allah bless you.

Answer: The ḥadīth is authentic: the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) would kiss while fasting and engage in physical intimacy while fasting. The meaning of “kissing” is clear. As for “physical intimacy” (mubāsharah), it refers to contact short of intercourse, such as touching. Intercourse itself nullifies the fast by explicit textual evidence and by consensus.

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) did this because he had complete control over himself, was the most God-fearing of people, and was perfectly aware of the rulings of fasting—what affects it and what invalidates it. Others, however, should not venture into such acts—whether kissing or touching their wives—because these actions may lead them to something that breaks the fast, given their ignorance, weak faith, and lack of self-restraint. It is therefore better for a Muslim to avoid whatever stirs his desire and whatever he fears may invalidate his fast.