الصِّيَامُ لِلَّهِ وَأَنَا أَصُومُهُ وَأَرْجُو ثَوَابَهُ
Fasting is for Allah, and I fast it, and I hope for its reward.
As-siyamu lillahi wa ana asoomuhu wa arju thawabahu
When to Read
This dua is not specific to the six days of Shawwal, but rather reflects the intention and sincerity behind any voluntary fast, including those observed in Shawwal. It is best recited at the time of making the intention to fast, before Fajr, or even during the day if the intention is renewed.
How to Read
The intention (niyyah) is the cornerstone of all acts of worship. For the voluntary fasts of Shawwal, one should make a sincere intention to fast for the sake of Allah. This can be done verbally or simply in the heart before Fajr. The intention itself carries immense weight. This phrase embodies that sincerity: 'Fasting is for Allah, and I fast it, and I hope for its reward.' It's a declaration of purpose and reliance on Allah's grace. You can make this intention privately, whether it's before you sleep the night before or as soon as you wake up, as long as it's before the time for breaking the fast arrives.
Virtues & Benefits
Fasting the six days of Shawwal is a highly recommended Sunnah practice. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'Whoever fasts Ramadan and then follows it with six days [of fasting] in Shawwal, it is as if they have fasted for a lifetime.' (Sahih Muslim 1164). While there isn't a specific *dua* prescribed solely for the six days of Shawwal, the general intention for voluntary fasting, as reflected in the phrase 'As-siyamu lillahi wa ana asoomuhu wa arju thawabahu,' is crucial. It elevates the act from mere abstention to an act of devotion, seeking Allah's pleasure and reward. The sincerity behind the fast, coupled with the intention to please Allah, is what unlocks its true spiritual benefits. These six days help to mend any shortcomings in our Ramadan fasts and further cultivate the discipline and Taqwa (God-consciousness) gained during the month.
Source & Authentication
The narration from Sahih Muslim 1151 states: 'Allah the Almighty said: Every deed of the son of Adam is for him, except for fasting. It is for Me and I will reward it...' The context here is Allah describing the unique nature of fasting, highlighting that its reward is directly from Him due to its sincerity. The phrase 'As-siyamu lillahi wa ana asoomuhu wa arju thawabahu' directly encapsulates this sentiment, making it a fitting reflection for any voluntary fast, including the six days of Shawwal.