The Ruling on a Fasting Person Who Intended to Break the Fast but Did Nothing Else Besides the Intention

Question
What is the ruling on a fasting person who intended to break the fast but did nothing else besides the intention?
Answer
His fast is complete; because mere intention has no significance in the rulings of Sharia unless it is accompanied by action. This is supported by what Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Indeed, Allah has overlooked for my nation what their souls may suggest to them as long as they do not speak of it or act upon it." This is found in Sahih Ibn Hibban 10: 178, Musnad Al-Mustakhrij 1: 1: 195, Musnad Abu Awana 1: 76, Sunan Al-Nasa'i 3: 360, and Musnad Al-Tayalisi 1: 322. Here, the intention to break the fast is not accompanied by action, and it is clear that the intention of fasting is not invalidated by the intention to break the fast; because the intention of fasting is one that is accompanied by action, and it cannot be nullified by an intention that is not accompanied by action. Moreover, the intention is a condition for the validity of the fast, not a condition for its continued validity. Do you not see that it remains valid even with sleep, forgetfulness, and distraction, as mentioned in Bada'i Al-Sanai' 2: 92.
imam icon

Send your question to the smart assistant

If the previous answers are not appropriate, please send your question to the Mufti via