As stated in the Hadeeth (narration) on the authority of Huthayfah, may Allah be pleased with him,

Fasting is one of the acts of worship that atones for one’s faults. 

For believers seeking spiritual development and divine intervention, fasting outside of Ramadan is an opportunity to participate in duas. 

Recognising the Importance of Dua

In Islam, making a dua is seen as a sign of one’s reliance on Allah (SWT) and an act of devotion. It represents a believer accepting Allah’s (SWT) benevolence and sovereignty when he fasted for Him, which are fundamental to religion.

People acknowledge Allah’s (SWT) infinite power and wisdom by expressing their needs, wishes, and appreciation to Him (SWT) via dua.

Non-Ramadan Fasting

All adult Muslims are required to fast throughout Ramadan, yet voluntary fasting has a value of its own. The Islamic faith strongly recommends that you fast days other than Ramadan, such as the White Days, Mondays, and Thursdays.

These voluntary fasts provide spiritual advantages and chances for personal development. Many people practice intermittent fasting, which alternates between eating and fasting times, to maintain good health.

Longevity, better metabolic health, and weight loss are just a few health advantages of this fasting approach. 

How to Offer a Dua for a Fasting Away from Ramadan

In Islamic culture, sincerity, modesty, and faith are necessary for making a successful dua while fasting. Making dua requires having a pure heart, concentrating on one’s aims, and having faith in Allah’s (SWT) kindness, which is similar to keeping a fast.

When making dua for fasting outside of Ramadan, paying attention to the appropriate wording, dua etiquette, and prescribed periods for supplication is essential.

Duas for Fasting Outside of Ramadan

When fasting outside of Ramadan, several kinds of duas are prayed, including dua, for the forgiveness of previous transgressions, spiritual development and increased proximity to Allah, and fortitude and endurance to complete the fast.

1. Praying for the Beginning and Acceptance of Fasting

The purpose of reciting this dua is to ask Allah to acknowledge one’s sincerity of purpose and fast.

The translation quotes:

2. Dua for Repentance 

Muslims can perform duas to petition Allah for mercy and forgiveness, and they might fast to pray for forgiveness for their sins.

The translation of this dua is:

3. Dua for Perseverance and Endurance

Muslims frequently recite duas to beg for courage, endurance, and patience to complete their fasts because it may be a physically and mentally taxing experience.

The translation of this dua is:

4. A Prayer for Spiritual Development

During their fast, Muslims may say duas in which they beg for more faith, spiritual development, and a closer relationship with Allah.

The translation of this dua is:

5. Prayer for Good Protection

Another prominent subject in dua while fasting is the need for protection against wicked acts, temptations, and harmful influences.

The translation is:

6. Dua to be Blessed and Grateful

Muslims can thank Allah for the bounties bestowed upon them and request further blessings for their family, the community, and themselves.

The translation of this dua is:

7. Dua for Fulfillment of Needs

Prophet Musa (AS) said this in prayer. The translation of this dua is:

Upon the recitation of dua, the following things happen in your life; 

• Accomplishment and triumph.
• Asking Allah to provide support and guidance.
• Satisfied demands of every kind. For example, getting married, starting a business, getting a job, taking examinations, increasing your sustenance, being in excellent health, etc.
• For important exams and interviews.

The Ways of Making a Strong and Successful Dua

• Recognise the Effectiveness of Dua

It’s critical to comprehend the influence that an actual dua may have before beginning. There is a claim that dua can outrun fate.

Allah’s (SWT) might knows no bounds. Hence, duas can have immense power provided they are sufficiently persistent and have strong faith.

Anything that He wills will come to pass. According to Surat Yaseen, Allah SWT only gives orders when He wishes for something to happen and says, “Be,” and it does.

• Recognise the Extent of Allah’s (SWT) Kindness

Allah (SWT) is compassionate. All of him is mercy. He will hear you first, whether you speak to Him in words or in quiet, that you should ask for His assistance.

Zakkariya (AS) is one of the well-known case studies of Dua that resulted in miracles on Earth. Allah blessed the Prophet Zakkariya (AS) when he prayed for his increasing age, wife’s sterility, and want for a son through duas.

• Have a Fresh Start and Finish

It’s a good idea to start and end each Dua with “thanaaa ‘ala Allah.”

•       Praise be to Allah (SWT).
•       Offer prayers to the prophet Muhammad (SAW)
•       Beg for pardon.

The dua below is Dua al-intifadah, a dua for fasting—sehri, which is before sunset and translates to “the opening supplication.” The leading translation is:

• Indicate What You Require, Khushoo. Tell Him Your Grievances

Remember why you need him and what you need; all your suffering, anxieties, desires, and hopes gather in one place at a time. Make an effort to have a genuine khushoo (state of mind).  

• Aim for Sujood

When you are in “sujood” during Salah (prayer), you are the closest you can get to Allah. According to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW),

Try spending that time talking to Allah alone.

• Make Use of Appropriate Timings

You can address Allah (SWT) anytime, and He will always hear you. Dua’s likelihood of being replied to is higher at a few critical periods of the day. Make wise use of these windows of opportunity; for example, the interval separates the time when the prayer is held in the mosque (al Iqaama) from when it begins in Athaan.

Conclusion

According to Prophet Muhammad PBUH, if Allah receives duas in any way, they are guaranteed in three ways. In the afterlife, it may preserve an even greater good in Al-Akhira (the hereafter). Allah answers and gives it in Dunya (this life). Allah (SWT) utilises it to safeguard His creation against something of equal worth and significance.

Making a dua while fasting outside Ramadan that works requires patience, consistency, and sincerity. Believers should establish a regular dua for fasting practice as they supplicate to Allah with firm faith and confidence. Pondering the significance of the dua and keeping an optimistic outlook is also essential to fully reaping the spiritual rewards of supplication.

As the sun dips below the horizon and the day’s fast draws close, Muslims worldwide prepare for the Iftar meal—a moment of significant spiritual reflection and personal supplication. 

The act of breaking the fast, or Iftar, is not only a physical replenishment but also a profound spiritual reconnection.

Central to this sacred moment is the Dua (prayer) for breaking the fast, a simple yet powerful supplication that resonates with deep gratitude and humble petitioning.

We’ll offer insights into its meanings, variations, and the profound impact it holds in the daily lives of the faithful during the holy month of Ramadan and beyond.

Join us as we delve into this cherished practice, understanding why it is more than just a ritualistic utterance but a profound communion with the divine.

Dua for Breaking a Fast in Ramadan

The Dua for breaking the fast during Ramadan, known as the Iftar Dua, is a special prayer recited by Muslims at sunset when ending their daily fast.

This Dua is an expression of thankfulness to Allah for the strength to complete the fast and a reminder of its spiritual purpose.

It emphasises reliance on God’s provisions, deepens the worshipper’s faith, and enhances the spiritual experience of Ramadan by linking fasting directly to divine worship and gratitude. Here is the recommended dua for breaking fasting:

Transliteration

Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa ala rizq-ika-aftartu

Translation

O Allah! For You, I have fasted and upon your provision, I have broken my fast.

Correct Way to Break Your Fast According to the Sunnah

According to the Sunnah, the traditional practice of the Prophet Muhammad, there are specific guidelines to follow when breaking the fast during Ramadan to ensure it aligns with these revered teachings of having meals after fasting:

• Timing: The fast should be broken immediately after sunset. Delaying the breaking of the fast is discouraged in the Sunnah. The Prophet Muhammad emphasised the importance of not delaying Iftar by stating,

• Breaking the Fast with Fresh Dates: The Sunnah recommends breaking the fast with fresh dates. If fresh dates are unavailable, dry dates should be used to open fasts. If neither is available, drinking water is recommended. This practice is based on the hadith in which the Prophet Muhammad said,

• Recitation of the Dua: Before eating or drinking when opening the fast, it is Sunnah to recite the dua for breaking the fast. The most common dua recited is

meaning,

Hadith scholars often cite this dua based on the practice of the Prophet (PBUH), though its specific origin isn’t directly attributed in primary hadith collections.

• Starting with a Small Amount: It is recommended to start with a small quantity of food and water before proceeding to the main meal. This practice helps prepare the digestive system for more substantial food after fasting.
• Performing Maghrib Prayer: After breaking the fast with dates and water and before eating the main meal, it is Sunnah who performs the Maghrib prayer. This ensures the prayer is on time and balances physical sustenance and spiritual nourishment.

Following these practices aligns with the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and enhances the spiritual and physical benefits of fasting during Ramadan.

Why Is Dua Important During Ramadan?

Duas, or supplications, hold a particularly significant place during Ramadan for several reasons, intertwining spiritual practice with personal reflection and divine communication. Here are some of the key reasons why dua is emphasised during this holy month:

1. Spiritual Connection: Ramadan is a time of heightened spirituality and devotion. Dua allows individuals to connect personally with Allah, expressing their innermost thoughts, fears, hopes, and gratitude. This personal communication reinforces their relationship with the divine, making it a crucial aspect of worship during Ramadan.
2. Seeking Forgiveness: One of the core objectives of fasting in Ramadan is to seek forgiveness for past sins. Dua provides a means to ask Allah for forgiveness and mercy. It is believed that during Ramadan, especially during the nights of Qadr and when breaking fast, supplications are more likely to be accepted, as the gates of mercy are wide open.
3. Spiritual Purification and Reflection: Ramadan is a time for self-evaluation and spiritual purification. Through dua, Muslims reflect on their deeds, seek guidance for the future, and ask for strength to abstain from sin. This introspection helps purify their hearts and renew their intentions.
4. Increased Reward: The rewards for good deeds are believed to be multiplied during Ramadan. Making dua is an act of worship for which Muslims believe they are rewarded. Frequent supplication is thus seen as a way to maximise the spiritual benefits of Ramadan.
5. Strengthening Patience and Perseverance: Ramadan teaches patience and perseverance through fasting. Dua supports these virtues by allowing individuals to verbalise their struggles and seek assistance overcoming them. It helps cultivate resilience and reliance on Allah.
6. Fulfilment of Needs: During Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to ask Allah for their needs and desires, both worldly and hereafter. It is a time when Allah is said to be especially close to His believers, listening to their pleas and responding to their calls.
7. Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr): This night, better than a thousand months, is said to be hidden within the last ten nights of Ramadan. Supplications made this night are of immense significance, and it is highly recommended that you engage in extended prayers and dua, seeking the best from Allah.

Dau for Laylat-Al-Qadr

Laylat al-Qadr, also known as the Night of Decree or Night of Power, is considered the holiest night in the Islamic calendar.

It is traditionally celebrated on one of the last ten nights of Ramadan, particularly on the odd nights. It is believed to be the night when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, making it a time of immense blessing and divine mercy.

During Laylat al-Qadr, Muslims engage in intensive worship, give zakat or charity, and feed the underprivileged, hungry, orphaned children, and displaced believers in pursuit of Allah’s favour and blessings.

A particularly significant Dua for Laylat al-Qadr is recommended by the Prophet Muhammad for those observing this night. He advised his wife, Aisha (RA), to recite the following:

Translated, this means:

This simple yet profound Dua encapsulates the essence of Laylat al-Qadr—seeking Allah’s forgiveness, mercy, and favour. It highlights Allah’s attributes of forgiving and loving forgiveness, making it a suitable supplication for a night that emphasises redemption and mercy. Muslims are encouraged to recite this Dua frequently throughout the night, engage in additional prayers, read the Quran, and perform other acts of worship.

Can I Brush My Teeth While Fasting?

Yes, you can brush your teeth while fasting during Ramadan. However, it’s important to be cautious and ensure that no water or toothpaste is swallowed during the process, as that could invalidate the fast.

Islamic scholars generally agree that maintaining oral hygiene, including using toothpaste and a toothbrush, does not break the fast as long as nothing is ingested.

This practice aligns with the Sunnah (traditions of the Prophet Muhammad), which encourages cleanliness and personal hygiene.

Many people prefer to brush their teeth outside of fasting hours, such as after Suhoor (a pre-dawn meal) and after Iftar (a meal to break the fast), to avoid the risk of accidentally swallowing something while fasting.

If you’re concerned about it or prefer an alternative, consider using a miswak. A miswak is a traditional natural tooth cleaning stick, used widely in the Muslim world and endorsed in the Sunnah as a tool for oral care that can be used without such concerns during fasting.

Does Swallowing Saliva Break Fast?

No, swallowing saliva does not break your fast. Swallowing saliva is a natural and unavoidable part of daily life, and Islamic teachings are practical.

The act of swallowing saliva is permissible during fasting in Ramadan and does not invalidate the fast.

Islamic scholars and jurisprudence confirm that only intentional eating or drinking breaks the fast.

Since saliva is naturally produced and swallowed without thought, it does not affect the validity of the fast. This view helps balance strict fasting observance and practical, reasonable living during the fasting hours.

Which Days Are Forbidden To Fast In Islam?

In Islam, while fasting is a highly valued practice, there are specific days when fasting is considered forbidden or highly discouraged. Here are those particular days:

1. Eid al-Fitr: This is the festival marking the end of Ramadan. Fasting on the day of Eid al-Fitr is strictly prohibited, as it is designated for celebration, feasting, and gratitude after a month of fasting.
2. Eid al-Adha: The day of Eid al-Adha and the three days that follow it, known as the days of Tashreeq (11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul Hijjah), are also days on which fasting is prohibited. These days are meant for sacrifice and celebration in remembrance of the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).
3. Days of Doubt: Fasting on the day when there is uncertainty, whether it is the last day of Sha’ban or the first day of Ramadan, is discouraged. This practice is based on the hadith that cautions against fasting on these days of doubt to avoid mistakenly fasting on a day that is actually part of Sha’ban.

These regulations help ensure that the special days of communal celebration and doubt are observed appropriately, maintaining the balance between worship and communal festivity as prescribed in Islamic teachings.

Can You Fast On a Friday?

Yes, you can fast on a Friday in Islam, but there are specific guidelines and recommendations.

The Prophet Muhammad advised Muslims against singling out Friday as a day for fasting unless it coincides with a regular fasting schedule or is part of a consecutive series of fasts.

Here are the key considerations regarding fasting on a Friday:

1. Not Singling Out Friday: Fasting only on Friday is discouraged. If you choose to fast on a Friday, it is recommended to either fast the day before (Thursday) or the day after (Saturday). This recommendation aims to avoid elevating Friday (a weekly Eid or celebration day for Muslims) with additional acts of worship not specified by the Sunnah.
2. Part of Regular Fasting: If Friday falls on a day that you usually fast, such as during Ramadan or as part of your regular voluntary fasting schedule (like fasting on Mondays and Thursdays), it is perfectly acceptable to fast.
3. Special Occasions: Fasting on Fridays that coincide with special fasting days like Arafah or Ashura is also permissible and encouraged. These are exceptions because the fast is for the specific significance of those days, not because the day is Friday.

The guidance helps ensure that while personal acts of piety are maintained, communal norms and Friday’s unique weekly significance are respected.

Summary – Dua for breaking Fasting

In conclusion, reciting a Dua when breaking the fast during Ramadan is a cherished ritual that enhances the spiritual dimension of fasting.

This profound act of reciting Ramadan duas serves as a moment of thanking Allah for the sustenance and reinforces the worshipper’s connection to their faith. The Dua encapsulates fasting as an act of devotion, belief, and reliance on divine provision.

By integrating this supplication into the ritual of breaking the fast, Muslims affirm their commitment to their beliefs and gratitude towards Allah, making each iftar a physical nourishment and a spiritual reawakening that brings them closer to their lord. 

The primary goal of fasting (also known as Sawm) is to achieve Taqwa, or God-fearing, and to always live according to Islamic ideals. During Ramadan, Muslims do not eat or drink (fast) from sunrise to sunset.

Here, you will learn about the dua for fasting and the importance of the act for Muslims.

Duas for Fasting in Ramadan

The essence of fasting and the close relationship between a believer and their Creator are captured in the dua for fasting. It encompasses the spiritual journey of Ramadan and acts as a confession of faith, thankfulness, and dependence on Allah (SWT).

This dua captures the essence of fasting as a spiritual journey and is a reminder of faith, thankfulness, and dependence on Allah (SWT).

Dua for opening fast in Ramadan

Arabic: وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَّوَيْتَ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَا

English Transliteration: Wa bisawmi ghadinn nawaiytu min shahri ramadan.

English Translation: I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan.

Here is another dua for opening your fast in Ramadhan.

Arabic: نـَوَيْتُ صَوْمَ غـَدٍ عَـنْ ا َدَاءِ فـَرْضِ شـَهْرِ رَمـَضَانَ هـَذِهِ السَّـنـَةِ لِلـّهِ تـَعَالىَ

English Transliteration: Nawaitu sauma ghadin anadai fardu syahri ramadhana hadzihissanati lillahitaala.

English Translation: I intend to do an obligatory fast tomorrow in the month of Ramadan this year because of Allah (SWT).

Dua for breaking fast in Ramadan

Arabic: اللَّهُمَّ لَكَ صُمْتُ وَعَلَى رِزْقِكَ أَفْطَرْتُ

English Transliteration: Allah umma laka sumtu wa ‘ala rizqika aftartu

English Translation: O Allah, for You I have fasted, and by Your provision, I have broken the fast

Dua For Breaking Fast With A Group Of People

Arabic: أفطر عندكم الصائمون ، وأكل طعامكم الأبرار ، وصلت عليكم الملائكة

English Transliteration: aftara indakum as-saa’imoon, wa akala ta’aamakum al-abraar, wa sallat alaikum al-malaa’ikah

English Translation: May the fasting people break fast at your place, and may the pious eat from your food, and may the angels pray for you.

Correct intentions when fasting

According to Umar Ibn Al-Khattab, he overheard the divine messenger صلى الله عليه و سلم say:

The above is a very deep Hadith of the Prophet (PBUH) that captures the essence of all actions in Islam.

Fasting during Ramadan is an example of an act of worship, but it is only acceptable if it is done with the correct intention.

The ability to intend or desire is called niyyah, and it comes from the heart rather than the lips. A person can discern the type of action (e.g., mandatory fasting, voluntary fasting, make-up fasting, etc.) and its intention (e.g., fasting for social prestige or fasting to appease Allah (SWT) and propagate His faith) by niyyah.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) declared that

Why is fasting important?

Fasting is a highly spiritual discipline with physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Fasting is meant to help us cultivate the virtue of righteousness (taqwa), both inside and externally, by teaching us to restrain our thoughts and cravings and refrain from committing sinful acts.

Fasting assists us in caring for the amanah (trust) that Allah (SWT) has given us in our bodies.

The following are some advantages of regular fasting for physical health:

• Keeps you safe from chronic obesity-related ailments.
• Improves cardiac health.
• Lessens insulin resistance, which helps to regulate blood sugar.
• Improves cognitive function, lowers inflammation, and may aid in preventing neurodegenerative diseases.

Fasting is Sunnah and has numerous health benefits during Ramadan and throughout the year.

Islam holds that self-control and self-discipline are fundamental qualities, and fasting fosters these qualities. Muslims develop their inner strength and ability to resist temptation by abstaining from food, drink, and other luxuries during the day.

Self-control is not just about not eating; it’s also about not engaging in undesirable behaviours like gossiping, getting angry, or lying, and it involves teaching self-control. People quickly develop a more conscious knowledge of their behaviour and work to align it with Islamic principles.

Furthermore, fasting fosters a strong sense of gratitude for Allah’s (SWT) gifts. Hunger and thirst make us more conscious of the things we frequently take for granted, such as having access to food, clean water, and a place to live.

Fasting serves as a reminder of the difficulties and tribulations faced by the less fortunate and serves as a call to share our blessings with those less fortunate.

Verses from The Holy Quran about Fasting

The following verses from the Quran emphasize the significance and benefits of fasting during Ramadan.

Hadiths regarding fasting

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also emphasized fasting during Ramadhan and other months.

The prophet ((PBUH) ) said, “(Allah said),

Dua for fasting on Monday and Thursday

Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays has special significance. Abu Qataadah al-Ansaari narrated that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) was asked about fasting on Mondays. He said:

Additionally, Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

Dua for fasting on white days

Every lunar month, on the 13th, 14th, and 15th, the Messenger of Allah (saw) would fast. In Arabic, these days are known as Al-Ayyam al-Bid, meaning “the white days.” They are also referred to as “the bright days,” “the shining nights,” and “the bright nights.”

Al-Malik ibn Qudamah ibn Milhan (ra) is credited with narrating that his father (RA) said,

The benefits of fasting during the full moon are great. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:

Here is a dua for fasting on white days.

Arabic: نَوَيتُ صَومَ أَيَّامِ البِيض سُنَّةً لله تَعَالَى

English Transliteration: Nawaytu Sauma Ayyamil Bidh Sunnatan Lillahi Taa’la

English Translation: I intend to observe the Sunnah fast of the White days for Allah the Most High

What days are forbidden for fasting?

Fasting is forbidden on certain days of the year. Umar (RA) stated:

Muslims should also not fast during the three days after eid al adha, also known as the days of Tashreeq. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) had sent Abdullah ibn Hudhafah (RA) to Mina to announce that:

Fasting exclusively on Friday is also not recommended, as prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated,

Muslims are also discouraged from fasting one or two days before Ramadhan. Abu Hurairah reported that the Messenger of Allah said:

Fasting in Rajab

According to Islamic belief, the night of Al Isra wal Miraj, or the 27th of Rajab, is when the revered Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is said to have started the renowned Shab-e-Meraj, or night of ascension.

The prophet Muhammad (PBUH) underwent a miraculous nighttime voyage and ascension when he went from Makkah to Jerusalem’s Masjid Al-Aqsa and ascended to heaven. The night trip from Makka to Masjid Al-Aqsa is called “Isra.” The voyage to the sky from Masjid Al-Aqsa is known as Mi’raj.

That was when the five required daily prayers were first given to the Prophet (PBUH). He led them in prayer and met some of the other Prophets. During this tour, the Prophet (PBUH) saw many amazing things.

It was also a chance for the genuine Believers to shine and a test of faith for the believers at the time.

The prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was experiencing great suffering and grief during the historical period of the night journey and ascension. He had recently lost several of his closest friends and family members and had also been cruelly rejected by the Ta’if people. It is said to have happened a year before the Hijrah, or the journey from Makkah to Madinah.

This miracle, bestowed to the Prophet (PBUH) by Allah (SWT), profoundly affected both Islam and the prophet’s (PBUH) life.

Anas (r.a) reported that the messenger ﷺ use to make this dua at the beginning of Rajab,

Fasting in Shaban

Fasting in the month of Shaban has amazing benefits. It is the month when Allah (SWT) elevates the acts of his slaves, and the Prophet (PBUH) used to spend a significant portion of it fasting.

Aisha (RA) stated,

Can you brush your teeth while fasting?

Most Muslim experts agree that brushing your teeth throughout Ramadan is acceptable. Cleaning teeth when fasting will not invalidate your fast.

However, other scholars advise against using toothpaste during fasting if you ingest it accidentally.

Summary – Dua For Fasting

Fasting for the sake of Allah alone is a special act of devotion for which there is a unique reward. Since it is one of the five pillars of Islam, it must be observed during Ramadan. On the other hand, Muslims can observe the sawm at any time of year to worship or make up for missed fasts.

A dua made during a fast shows devotion to Allah (SWT), steadfast confidence and trust in Him, and appreciation for all the nourishment He gives us. One must consciously choose to fast for Allah’s (SWT) sake. We can better set our intentions for the fast by saying the dua for fasting.