So, when should the intention for fasting be recited? Here’s a detailed guide.
When to Recite the Intention for Fasting
According to the National Amil Zakat Body (Baznas), scholars agree that the intention should be made at night, before dawn (Subuh).
This period is considered to be between Maghrib (sunset) and Subuh (sunrise). Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said: "Whoever does not intend to fast before dawn, then his fast is not valid" (Narrated by An-Nasa'i and Abu Dawud).
Ibn Hibban also narrated: "Indeed, the intention (fasting) is at night; whoever breaks the fast before intending at night, then there is no fast for him."
The Intention for Fasting According to the Four Schools of Fiqh
Islamic scholars have long discussed the proper timing and method for making the intention (niyyah).
As explained by Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Lampung, the four major schools of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) each offer slightly different guidance on how and when the fasting intention should be recited.
1. Shafi'i School
The fasting intention is recited every night, from Maghrib until Imsak or before Subuh. The intention should be in the heart, though it is recommended to recite it aloud.
The wording for each night of Ramadan is: Nawaitu shauma ghadin an 'adaai fardhi syahri ramadhaana hadzihis sanati fardhan lillaahi ta'aala, meaning: "I intend to fast tomorrow in the month of Ramadan for the sake of Allah."
2. Hanafi School
According to the Hanafi school, the intention can be made every day, from Maghrib until midday (Zuhr). If someone does not recite the intention at night, they can still do so until midday, but it is better to make the intention at night and specify the type of fast.
3. Hambali School
Similar to the Shafi'i school, the intention can be recited every night from Maghrib until dawn. The type of fast, such as Ramadan or other fasts, should be specified when making the intention.
4. Maliki School
The Maliki school teaches that the intention is recited at night from Maghrib until dawn (Imsak). Alternatively, one can make the intention once at the first night of Ramadan for fasting the entire month.
The wording according to Imam Maliki is: Nawaitu shauman jamii'i syahri ramadhaana hadzihis sanati taglidan lil imam maliki fardhan lillaahi ta'aala, meaning: "I intend to fast for the entire month of Ramadan this year, following Imam Maliki’s opinion, for the sake of Allah."
