Intention for fasting in the month of ramadan

Fasting in the blessed month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, an act of worship that strengthens faith and brings Muslims closer to Allah. However, beyond the physical abstention from food and drink, the essence of fasting lies in the intention (niyyah). Intention plays a crucial role in distinguishing fasting as an act of worship rather than a mere routine of skipping mealsin this article on Arabian Tongue website we will explorer intention for fasting in the month of ramadan,

Understanding Intention (Niyyah) in Islam

In Islamic teachings, niyyah refers to the internal resolve to perform an act of worship solely for the sake of Allah. Unlike some forms of worship that require verbal declarations, intention in fasting is primarily a matter of the heart.

Why Intention is Crucial in Worship

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Actions are but by intention, and every man shall have only that which he intended.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

This hadith emphasizes the importance of sincerity in worship. Without intention, an action may lose its spiritual merit and significance.

The Importance of Intention in Fasting

The sincerity of intention is what transforms fasting from a mere act of abstaining from food and drink into a deeply rewarding act of worship. A pure intention strengthens faith, increases sincerity, and brings one closer to Allah. Therefore, ensuring a sound and sincere niyyah is essential for the acceptance of one’s fast

For obligatory fasts (such as Ramadan), the intention must be made before dawn (Fajr), as the Prophet ﷺ said:

“Whoever does not make the intention to fast before dawn, his fast is not accepted.” (Sunan al-Nasa’i, Sunan Abu Dawood)

For voluntary fasts, it is permissible to make the intention during the day, as long as the person has not eaten or drunk anything.

The primary purpose of fasting is to seek Allah’s pleasure and develop taqwa (God-consciousness). If the intention is tainted by showing off or seeking worldly benefits, the spiritual reward of fasting may be diminished. The intention is a matter of the heart and does not need to be verbally stated. Simply having the firm resolve to fast for Allah’s sake is sufficient.

When and How to Make the Intention for Fasting

Making the intention for fasting is a key part of ensuring its validity. While it does not need to be spoken, one must have the firm resolve in their heart before Fajr for obligatory fasts, and before midday for voluntary fasts. A sincere intention ensures that fasting is done for the sake of Allah, bringing spiritual rewards and purification.

The Time for Making the Intention

The timing of the intention (niyyah) depends on whether the fast is obligatory or voluntary:

The intention must be made before Fajr (dawn).
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever does not make the intention to fast before dawn, his fast is not accepted.” (Sunan Abu Dawood, Sunan al-Tirmidhi)
The intention can be made anytime before midday, as long as the person has not eaten, drunk, or done anything that would break the fast.
Aisha (رضي الله عنها) reported that the Prophet ﷺ once asked in the morning: “Do we have any food?” They replied, “No.” He said: “Then I am fasting.” (Sahih Muslim)

How to Make the Intention for Fasting

It does not need to be spoken aloud.
Simply having the firm resolve to fast is enough.
Before sleeping or at Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), one firmly decides:
“I intend to fast tomorrow for the sake of Allah.”

Can you verbalize the intention?

While it is not required, some people choose to say it as a reminder.
A common phrase:
“نويت صوم غدٍ عن أداء فرض رمضان لله تعالى”
(I intend to fast tomorrow as an obligation of Ramadan for the sake of Allah.)

The Difference Between Fard (Obligatory) and Nafl (Voluntary) Fasts

Fasting in Islam is divided into two main categories: Fard (obligatory) and Nafl (voluntary). Each has its own rules, rewards, and conditions.

Fard (Obligatory) Fasts

These are fasts that a Muslim must observe, and failing to do so without a valid excuse results in sin. Examples include:

Fasting in the month of Ramadan (the most important obligatory fast).
Making up missed Ramadan fasts (Qada).
Expiatory fasts (Kaffarah) (e.g., for breaking an oath, unintentional killing, or breaking a fast in Ramadan without a valid reason).
Vowed fasts (Nadhr) (e.g., if someone vows to fast if a specific event happens).

Nafl (Voluntary) Fasts

These are recommended fasts that bring extra reward but are not mandatory. Examples include:

Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays (as practiced by the Prophet ﷺ).
Fasting on the White Days (Ayyam al-Bid) – the 13th, 14th, and 15th of each Islamic month.
Fasting on Ashura (10th of Muharram) and Tasu’a (9th of Muharram).
Fasting on the Day of Arafah (9th of Dhul-Hijjah) for non-pilgrims.
The six days of Shawwal (after Ramadan).

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FAQs

Can I make one intention for the whole month of Ramadan?

Some scholars permit it, but renewing intention daily is preferable.

Do I have to say my intention out loud?

No, intention is in the heart and does not require verbalization.

What if I forget to make an intention before Fajr?

The fast is invalid, but you can still observe it voluntarily for spiritual benefits.

Can I change my intention after starting a fast?

No, the intention must be clear before Fajr for obligatory fasts.

Is it acceptable to make an intention in my heart without verbalizing it?

Yes, intention is primarily a matter of the heart.

Conclusion

The importance of intention in fasting cannot be overstated. It transforms fasting from a mere physical act into a profound spiritual experience. By setting a sincere intention, we maximize our rewards and deepen our connection with Allah.

intention for fasting in the month of ramadan