What is the ruling on someone who did not intend to fast Ramadan due to forgetfulness, but ate suhoor with the intention of fasting?
Scholars have differed regarding the necessity of forming the intention (niyyah) each night in Ramadan. The majority hold that it is obligatory for the validity of the fast, because each day is an independent act of worship that requires a separate intention. They cite as evidence the saying of the Prophet (peace be upon him): "Whoever does not gather the intention to fast before dawn has no fast." The Malikis, however, hold that a single intention is sufficient for the entire fast of Ramadan, as long as it is not interrupted by an excuse that permits breaking the fast. The more cautious approach is to make up the fast for which the intention was not formed overnight. The place of the intention is the heart, and whoever eats suhoor with the intention of fasting has indeed formed the intention.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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