Opening Fast Dua

But before we dive into that sweet moment of relief, let’s clarify something, as language can sometimes be tricky. When we talk about a dua for fast, people sometimes mean two different things: the intention made before starting, and the supplication made when ending the fast. Both are important, so let’s touch on both.

Setting the Intention: The Dua Before Fasting

First things first, before the day’s fast even begins, typically before Fajr (dawn prayer) during Suhur (the pre-dawn meal), there’s the crucial act of Niyyah – the intention. While you can make the intention in your heart in any language, knowing you intend to fast for Allah’s sake, there’s a common dua before fasting many recite:

• Arabic: وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَّوَيْتُ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ

• Transliteration: Wa bisawmi ghadin nawaiytu min shahri Ramadan.

• Meaning: “And I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan.”

This isn’t strictly mandatory to recite verbally, as the intention resides in the heart, but saying this dua for beginning fast helps solidify that commitment. It’s the starting pistol, the conscious decision to embark on this act of worship.

The Golden Hour: Your Opening Fast Dua (Iftar)

Now, let’s get to that moment everyone eagerly awaits – Iftar, the breaking of the fast. The sun has set, the call to Maghrib prayer might be echoing, and there’s a palpable sense of accomplishment and relief. This is considered one of the prime times when duas are accepted. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) taught us a beautiful opening fast dua for this precious time.

The most commonly recited and widely known dua for fast at the time of breaking it is:

• Arabic: اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي لَكَ صُمْتُ وَبِكَ آمَنْتُ وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ وَعَلَى رِزْقِكَ أَفْطَرْتُ

• Transliteration: Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu wa ‘alayka tawakkaltu wa ‘ala rizq-ika aftartu.

• Meaning: “O Allah, I have fasted for You, and I believe in You, and I put my trust in You, and I break my fast with Your sustenance.”

Self-reflection: Take a moment with those words. Each phrase is packed with meaning:

• “I have fasted for You…” (Acknowledging the intention and purpose)

• “…I believe in You…” (Affirming faith)

• “…I put my trust in You…” (Recognizing reliance on Him)

• “…I break my fast with Your sustenance.” (Expressing gratitude for the provision)

Reciting this opening fast dua connects the physical act of eating and drinking after abstinence directly back to the spiritual purpose and reliance on Allah.

Another Authentic Dua: There’s another beautiful narration where the Prophet (PBUH) would say upon breaking his fast:

• Arabic: ذَهَبَ الظَّمَأُ وَابْتَلَّتِ الْعُرُوقُ وَثَبَتَ الأَجْرُ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ

• Transliteration: Dhahaba az-zama’u wabtallatil-‘urooqu wa thabatal-ajru insha’Allah.

• Meaning: “The thirst is gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is confirmed, if Allah wills.”

This dua for fast beautifully captures the physical relief and the hopeful confirmation of the spiritual reward.

Beyond the Words: The Spirit of the Dua

Whether it’s the dua before fasting or the opening fast dua, remember the essence. It’s about sincerity. It’s about taking that moment, amidst the hunger or the relief, to consciously connect with Allah, express gratitude, and seek His acceptance.

That moment right before breaking the fast is incredibly potent. Use it! After reciting the recommended opening fast dua, make personal supplications. Ask Allah for forgiveness, for guidance, for your needs and the needs of your loved ones. It’s a window of opportunity.

After four decades, I can tell you, these small moments of intentional connection are what build a life of faith. Don’t rush through them. Savour the words, feel the meaning, and let the dua for fast truly elevate your experience.

FAQ: Your Questions on Fasting Duas

Let’s tackle some common queries:

Q1: Do I have to recite these specific Arabic words for the dua before fasting or the opening fast dua?

A: Reciting the prophetic duas in Arabic connects you to the Sunnah and carries special blessings. However, the core Niyyah (intention) for starting the fast is in the heart. For breaking the fast, while the recommended duas are best, if you don’t know them, expressing gratitude and making dua in your own language is still valid and encouraged. Sincerity is key.

Q2: When exactly should I say the opening fast dua? Before or after the first bite/sip?

A: Most scholars recommend reciting the opening fast dua (like Allahumma inni laka sumtu… or Dhahaba az-zama’u…) immediately after taking the first sip of water or bite of food (often a date, following the Sunnah). The relief has begun, and you express your gratitude and reliance at that point. Personal duas can be made right before breaking the fast as well, as it’s a time of acceptance.

Q3: What if I forget to make the intention (dua before fasting) before Fajr? Is my fast valid?

A: For obligatory fasts like Ramadan, the majority scholarly opinion is that the intention must be made before Fajr prayer begins for that day. Some schools of thought allow for making a single intention at the beginning of Ramadan to cover the whole month (unless interrupted), but renewing it nightly is safer and preferred. If you genuinely forget, it’s best to consult a knowledgeable scholar about your specific situation. For voluntary fasts, the intention can often be made during the day if one hasn’t consumed anything.

Q4: Is there one single correct dua for fast? I see different versions.

A: For breaking the fast, both duas mentioned above (Allahumma inni laka sumtu… and Dhahaba az-zama’u…) are well-established in the Sunnah. You can recite either or both. Variations in wording might exist due to different chains of narration, but these two are the most common and authentic. For the intention dua before fasting, the Niyyah is primarily in the heart, though the mentioned Arabic phrase is commonly used.

Q5: Can I make other personal duas when opening the fast?

A: Absolutely! And you definitely should! The time of breaking the fast is considered a very blessed time when supplications are likely to be answered. After reciting the recommended opening fast dua, take a few moments to ask Allah for anything you need – forgiveness, guidance, health, success, for yourself, your family, and the Ummah.

May your fasting be accepted and your duas answered.