Fasting during Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink. It is an act of worship that requires a clear intention and complete sincerity for it to be accepted by Allah.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Actions are judged by intentions, and everyone will have what they intended.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Without intention (niyyah) and sincerity (ikhlas), fasting becomes nothing more than a physical effort, lacking spiritual reward. In this article, we will explore the significance of niyyah and ikhlas in fasting and how to ensure that our acts of worship are purely for Allah.
1. Why Is Intention Mandatory for Fasting?
Intention (niyyah) is a fundamental requirement for fasting to be valid. It is not just a formality but what transforms an ordinary act into a sincere act of worship.
📌 The Obligation of Intention in Fasting
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever does not formulate the intention to fast before dawn, his fast is not valid.” (Reported by At-Tirmidhi and An-Nasa’i)
✅ The intention must be made before Fajr, each night for obligatory Ramadan fasting.
✅ It does not have to be spoken aloud but must be present in the heart.
✅ It signifies the firm will to obey Allah by fasting.
Tip: Before sleeping, make a sincere intention in your heart and renew it each night.
2. The Importance of Sincerity (Ikhlas) in Fasting
Sincerity (ikhlas) means fasting solely for Allah, without seeking praise or recognition from others.
Allah says in the Quran:
“And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion, inclining to truth, and to establish prayer and to give zakah. And that is the correct religion.” (Surah Al-Bayyinah, verse 5)
📌 Why Is Sincerity Essential?
✅ An act without sincerity has no value in the sight of Allah.
✅ Showing off (riya) nullifies the reward of an act of worship.
✅ Allah accepts only what is done solely for Him, without seeking human validation.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Allah does not look at your bodies or appearances, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds.” (Reported by Muslim)
Tip: Before starting your fast, ask yourself: “Why am I fasting?” and realign your intention solely for Allah.
3. How to Purify Your Intention for Allah?
🌿 Ways to Maintain a Pure Intention in Fasting
✅ Remember that fasting is a command from Allah, not just a cultural habit.
✅ Make fasting a means of getting closer to Him, rather than just a physical challenge.
✅ Avoid boasting or seeking approval from others.
✅ Renew your intention regularly throughout the day.
✅ Perform hidden acts of worship (Du’a, dhikr, secret charity) to train your heart in sincerity.
Tip: Whenever you feel doubt about your intention, say “Ya Allah, this is only for You” to refocus your heart.
4. Fasting: The Ultimate Act of Sincerity
Fasting is one of the most sincere acts of worship, as only Allah knows whether a person is truly fasting or not.
The Prophet ﷺ reported this Hadith Qudsi:
“Allah said: Every deed of the son of Adam is for him, except for fasting. It is for Me, and I will reward it.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
📌 Why Is Fasting So Special?
✅ No one can see if you are fasting or not, making sincerity essential.
✅ It teaches patience, self-control, and devotion to Allah.
✅ It purifies the heart and strengthens faith, reminding us that only Allah matters.
Tip: When you feel hungry during the day, pause and remind yourself that you are doing it solely for Allah, and feel the immense value of this act.
5. Common Mistakes That Can Affect Sincerity
🚫 1. Boasting About Fasting (Riya)
❌ Telling others that you are fasting to impress them.
❌ Showing discomfort to gain sympathy or attention.
Solution: Keep your fasting between you and Allah, without seeking validation from others.
🚫 2. Fasting Out of Habit, Without Reflection
❌ Viewing fasting as just a yearly ritual without thinking about its deeper meaning.
❌ Making no effort to enhance your connection with Allah.
Solution: Reflect on the purpose of fasting and set spiritual goals.
🚫 3. Neglecting Other Acts of Worship
❌ Fasting but continuing to lie, backbite, or neglect prayer.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever does not abandon false speech and evil actions, Allah has no need for him to leave his food and drink.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari)
Solution: Complement your fasting with good actions and purify your heart from bad habits.
A Sincere Fast for a Blessed Ramadan
Fasting is not just about physical deprivation; it is a sincere act of worship for Allah that elevates us spiritually.
By making a clear intention, purifying our actions, and fasting solely for Allah, we maximize our rewards and turn Ramadan into a month of sincerity and blessings.