Observing the fast is an individual obligation, and is binding on all Baháʼís who have reached the age 15 until the age of 70; it is not enforceable by the Baháʼí administrative institutions. Various exemptions are given to the sick, the travelling, and others (see below).
Abstaining from food and drink during the fast is a personal responsibility, obligatory for all mature Baháʼís until they reach senior age; it is not subject to enforcement by the Baháʼí administrative authorities. Exemptions are granted to those who are ill, traveling, or in other circumstances (see below).