Short Fiqh Regarding the Problem of Ramadan Fasting

The question is,

when is the correct time to make the intention for fasting in Ramadan? Should the intention be made every night of Ramadan, or is it sufficient to make it only once at the beginning of Ramadan? Also, what should we do if we forget to make the intention for obligatory fasting?

the answer is.

The scholars agree that the intention is obligatory in all actions, including fasting. The question is, when should we make the intention to fast? If the fast is obligatory, such as Ramadan, then the intention to fast must be made from the night until before dawn.

As stated by Prophet Muhammad, "Whoever does not make the intention to fast at night, there is no reward for him in that fast." (Hadith narrated by An-Nasa'i). In another Hadith, the Prophet also emphasizes, "Whoever does not make the intention to fast before dawn, then his fasting is not beneficial." (Hadith narrated by Tirmidhi).

According to the scholars, this Hadith relates to the time of making the intention for obligatory fasting. This means that the intention for obligatory fasting, such as Ramadan, qadha fasting, and nadzar fasting, must be made before dawn as a sign of the beginning of the fasting time. If it is done after dawn, then the obligatory fasting is not valid.

The question that arises then is related to the time of making the intention for obligatory fasting, especially Ramadan. Should the intention be made every night of Ramadan, or is it sufficient to make it only once at the beginning of Ramadan?

According to Imam Shafi'i, "The intention must be made every night." While Imam Maliki and Ahmad have a different opinion. "The intention is valid and sufficient to be made once for a month, if intending to fast for a month." Then Imam Hanafi's opinion is, "The intention for Ramadan and every obligatory fast is valid by making the intention during the day."

Furthermore, what should we do if we forget to make the intention for obligatory fasting at night? Should we break the fast or not fast at all? Imam Malik, Shafi'i, and Ahmad agree, "Those who did not make the intention at night due to forgetfulness should still fast, which means abstaining from eating, drinking, and having sexual intercourse during the day. But it is mandatory for them to make up for the missed intention.

If someone did not make the intention to fast at night intentionally, then their fasting is considered invalid, because the intention for every obligatory fast is required to be made at night.