Dua for Sehri (Suhoor)

The Significance and Recitation of Dua for Sehri (Suhoor)

The Sehri (Suhoor) meal before dawn during Ramadan is not merely a physical preparation for fasting but a spiritual commencement of the day's devotion. Central to this pre-dawn ritual is the recitation of the Sehri dua, a supplication that sets the intention and spiritual tone for the fast ahead. This article explores the dua for Sehri, its authentic sources, proper recitation methods, and answers common questions about this important Ramadan practice.

In Islamic tradition, the act of fasting during Ramadan encompasses both physical abstinence and spiritual elevation. While abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset is the outward manifestation, the inner dimension begins with the intention (niyyah) and supplication at Sehri time. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of this pre-dawn meal, calling it "the blessed meal" and encouraging its observance.

The dua for Sehri serves multiple purposes: it formally articulates the intention to fast, seeks Allah's acceptance of the fast, and invokes divine assistance in maintaining the physical and spiritual discipline required throughout the day. This supplication transforms an ordinary morning meal into an act of worship, connecting the believer's physical nourishment with spiritual sustenance.

وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَوَيْتُ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ

Wa bi-sawmi ghadin nawaitu min shahri Ramadān

"I intend to keep the fast tomorrow in the month of Ramadan."

The Importance of Niyyah (Intention) in Fasting

Islamic scholars emphasize that the place of intention is the heart, as mentioned in Sahih Muslim (1907). While verbal articulation of the dua for Sehri is highly recommended and serves to reinforce and manifest the internal intention, the fundamental requirement is the sincere resolve within one's heart to fast for the sake of Allah. The verbal dua acts as both a confirmation of this inner state and a means of seeking divine assistance in fulfilling the commitment.

Note: The timing for reciting the Sehri dua extends from the moment one wakes for Suhoor until the beginning of Fajr (dawn) prayer. While it is ideal to recite it after completing the Sehri meal, it can be said at any point during the pre-dawn period. The essential requirement is that the intention is made before Fajr begins.

The collective recitation of this dua by millions of Muslims worldwide during Ramadan creates a powerful spiritual synchrony—a global community united in intention and devotion. This shared practice reinforces the sense of Ummah and mutual support during the month of fasting.

Common Questions About Sehri Dua

Is the verbal recitation of Sehri dua obligatory?

No, the verbal recitation is not obligatory. The intention (niyyah) resides in the heart. However, verbally articulating the dua is a Sunnah practice that helps strengthen and confirm one's intention. Many scholars consider it highly recommended as it follows the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions.

What if I forget to recite the Sehri dua?

If you forget to recite the dua but had the intention in your heart to fast before Fajr, your fast is still valid. The essential element is the intention within the heart, not the verbal expression. However, making it a habit to recite the dua helps ensure the intention is consciously made and strengthens the spiritual aspect of fasting.

Can the Sehri dua be recited in my native language?

Yes, you can make the intention in any language you understand. The Arabic version is preferred as it is the original wording, but what matters most is the understanding and sincerity of the intention. If you don't know the Arabic, you can say in your language: "I intend to fast tomorrow for Ramadan."

What is the ruling if someone eats or drinks after reciting the Sehri dua but before Fajr?

The fast remains valid. The Sehri dua sets the intention to fast, but consuming food or drink is permitted until the beginning of Fajr. The dua does not prohibit you from eating or drinking during the remaining time before dawn. In fact, it's recommended to delay the Sehri meal until close to Fajr time.

Dua for Sehri: Key Information

Arabic Text: وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَوَيْتُ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ

Transliteration: Wa bi-sawmi ghadin nawaitu min shahri Ramadān

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

Timing: From waking for Suhoor until beginning of Fajr prayer

Islamic Source: Based on Hadith principles and scholarly consensus

Status: Recommended (Sunnah), not obligatory

Integrating Sehri Dua into Family Practice

Teaching children the Sehri dua represents an important aspect of Islamic parenting during Ramadan. This practice accomplishes several educational objectives: it familiarizes them with essential Ramadan rituals, teaches them basic Arabic supplications, and instills the concept of setting spiritual intentions. For younger children, simplified versions or translations can be used initially, gradually introducing the complete Arabic text as they grow older.

Family recitation of the Sehri dua together creates lasting spiritual memories and strengthens familial bonds through shared worship. This collective practice transforms the pre-dawn meal from a solitary act into a communal family ritual that reinforces Islamic identity and values across generations.

The dua for Sehri serves as a spiritual bridge between the physical nourishment of Suhoor and the spiritual discipline of fasting. By consciously articulating this intention, Muslims worldwide commence each fasting day with purposeful devotion, transforming an entire month of abstinence into a continuous journey of spiritual elevation and divine connection.