نَوَيْتُ صَوْمَ يَوْمِ الإِثْنَيْنِ لِلّٰهِ تَعَالَى
I intend to fast on Monday for the sake of Allah.
Nawaytu sawma yawmi al-ithnayn lillahi ta'ala
When to Read
This intention is crucial before the fast begins. For voluntary fasts like those on Mondays and Thursdays, the intention can be made any time from sunset on the preceding day until just before the Dhuhr prayer on the day of the fast, provided one has not eaten or drunk anything during that day. It’s best practice to make the intention the night before.
How to Read
The intention is primarily a matter of the heart. While reciting this or a similar phrase verbally can help solidify the intention, the core requirement is a sincere commitment in your heart to fast for Allah's pleasure. It's a personal act between you and your Creator. Ensure you are also fulfilling the other conditions of fasting, such as abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations from dawn until sunset.
Virtues & Benefits
Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays carries significant merit. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 'Actions are presented on Monday and Thursday, and I like for my actions to be presented while I am fasting.' (Sahih Muslim 1109). This indicates that voluntary fasts on these days are beloved to Allah and His Messenger ﷺ, potentially leading to increased blessings and acceptance of deeds. Fasting is also a means of purifying the self and drawing closer to Allah, as the Prophet ﷺ stated: 'Allah said: Every deed of the son of Adam is for him, except for fasting. It is for Me and I shall reward it' (Sahih al-Bukhari 1904).
Source & Authentication
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: 'Actions are presented on Monday and Thursday, and I like for my actions to be presented while I am fasting.'