How to Form the Intention

Question:
The questioner says in her final question: I heard that it is not permissible for us to verbalize the intention in our prayers, but that it is obligatory to form it. What does it mean: it is obligatory to form the intention? Does it mean that I should say it to myself?

Answer:
The meaning is that when one stands up for prayer, he must intend the prayer, whether it is the midday prayer, the afternoon prayer, or the sunset prayer. If the end of the night comes, he must intend to fast. However, he does not say, "I intend to pray such-and-such," or "I intend to fast such-and-such." No, his heart is sufficient. His knowledge that he is fasting today is sufficient. His knowledge that he stood up for the midday prayer is sufficient. His knowledge that he stood up for the afternoon prayer is sufficient. He does not need to verbalize it and say, "I intend to pray such-and-such," as some people do. This is a religious innovation.

The presenter: May Allah reward you.