What dua do I say when breaking my fast?
Usually the short dua the Prophet ﷺ is reported to have said when he broke his fast. It means "Thirst has gone, the arteries are moist, and the reward is sure, if Allah wills." You can also say "Bismillah" and ask Allah for anything you like in your own words, in any language.
The dua reported from the Prophet ﷺ
Ibn Umar reported that the Prophet ﷺ said this when he broke his fast (Sunan Abi Dawud 2357):
- Transliteration: Dhahaba az-zama'u wabtallatil-'uruqu wa thabatal-ajru in sha' Allah.
- Meaning: "Thirst has gone, the arteries are moist, and the reward is sure, if Allah wills."
Another wording is very widely used: Allahumma laka sumtu wa 'ala rizqika aftartu, meaning "O Allah, for You I have fasted, and with Your provision I have broken my fast" (Sunan Abi Dawud 2358). Many scholars point out that its chain of narration is weak, so the first dua is the better-supported one. Still, the words are a sincere supplication, and many Muslims say them as a general dua without claiming they are an authentic Prophetic wording.
Why this moment matters
The Prophet ﷺ said that three people's supplication is not rejected, and the first he named was the fasting person when he breaks his fast (Jami at-Tirmidhi 3598). So the moment of iftar is a precious time to ask Allah for what you need. The Quran reminds us how close He is:
If you don't know the Arabic yet
You don't have to memorize anything to benefit. You can say "Bismillah" as you take your first date or sip of water. See What dua do I say before eating? Then ask Allah in plain English, or your own language. See Can I make dua in English? Some ideas for your dua:
- forgiveness for your past mistakes,
- guidance and steadiness in your faith,
- health and good character,
- mercy for your parents, your family and the whole community.
Keep it short and honest. A few sincere words before or just as you break your fast are enough.
A dua for the people who feed you
If someone hosts you for iftar, the Prophet ﷺ said to the family who fed him: "May the fasting break their fast with you, and the pious eat your food, and the angels pray for blessing on you" (Sunan Abi Dawud 3854). Saying "Jazakum Allahu khayran" (may Allah reward you with good) is also lovely. See What is the reward for feeding a fasting person?
For the full steps of the evening, from the first date to praying Maghrib, see What is iftar and how do I break my fast?
- The reported dua is "Dhahaba az-zama'u wabtallatil-'uruqu wa thabatal-ajru in sha' Allah."
- "Allahumma laka sumtu" is popular, but its chain is considered weak.
- The time of breaking the fast is a time when dua is hopeful.
- You can always ask Allah in your own words and language.
People also ask
What if I swallow blood from my gums while fasting?
Usually no: a trace of gum blood swallowed unintentionally with saliva doesn't break the fast. Spit it out, rinse gently and carry on.
Read the full answer →What if I keep eating after the fajr adhan?
It depends: eating knowingly after Fajr begins invalidates that day's fast and you make it up. Honest mistakes are treated gently. Here is what to do.
Read the full answer →Should I make up missed fasts before Shawwal?
It depends: many scholars say make up missed Ramadan days first, others allow the six days of Shawwal first. How to plan both if you owe a few days.
Read the full answer →Is Ramadan a good time to quit smoking?
Yes, Ramadan is a great time to quit smoking: a daily break, a new routine and strong motivation. A simple plan, plus what to avoid at night.
Read the full answer →Is my fast valid if my period starts just before sunset?
It depends: most scholars say blood before sunset invalidates that day's fast and you make it up. If it only appears after Maghrib, many say it's valid.
Read the full answer →