Ignorance of the Invalidity of Smoking During Ramadan

Question

A person has been smoking for 10 years, and the ruling regarding the invalidity of smoking during Ramadan existed before that time. However, he is unaware of this ruling. What is the judgment in this case? Additionally, can we know when the ruling was issued so we can base our understanding on it?

Answer 1

Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings.

Ayatollah Al-Sistani (may God protect him):

The fast of an ignorant person who is not deliberately neglectful is not deemed invalid, aside from eating, drinking, and sexual intercourse, which are the known invalidators. If he relied on a legitimate argument or was genuinely unaware of the ruling, then his fast is valid.

Source: Minhaj al-Salihin, Vol. 1, Supplement on Committing Invalidators by Mistake, Coercion, or Necessity

---

Ayatollah Al-Khamenei (may God protect him):

Your fast is considered invalid as a precautionary measure, but you are not required to make expiation.

Source: Message on Prayer and Fasting, Fasting, Cases of Obligation for Qadha and Expiation for Deliberate Actions

May you be successful in all good.