Ramadan is a time for spiritual renewal, self-discipline, and drawing closer to Allah. It is not just about fasting from food and drink but also about purifying the soul and increasing in acts of worship.
Allah commands fasting in the Quran:
“O you who have believed, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain Taqwa (God-consciousness).” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183)
The Prophet ﷺ would begin his preparation for Ramadan in Sha’ban by increasing his fasting, prayers, and charity. This shows us that preparing before Ramadan ensures we enter it in the best spiritual and physical state.
The best way to welcome Ramadan is by gradually increasing our acts of worship before the month begins. If someone struggles with praying consistently, reading the Quran, or making Dhikr, starting early helps build momentum.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if they are small.” (Bukhari 6464, Muslim 783)
Begin by ensuring that your five daily prayers are performed on time. If you are already doing so, add extra voluntary prayers such as Tahajjud (night prayer) and Sunnah prayers.
Reading the Quran daily is also essential, as Ramadan is the month of the Quran. Allah says:
“The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Quran was revealed as guidance for mankind…” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185)
Even if you can only read a few verses a day, starting now will make it easier to complete the Quran in Ramadan.
Before entering Ramadan, seek forgiveness for past sins and make a sincere intention to improve yourself. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged us to repent regularly, saying:
“O people, repent to Allah, for I repent to Him one hundred times a day.” (Muslim 2702)
Repentance (Tawbah) is not just about saying Astaghfirullah (I seek forgiveness from Allah) but also about sincerely resolving to avoid sinful habits and develop better spiritual practices.
Set clear Ramadan goals for yourself, such as:
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Actions are judged by their intentions, and everyone will be rewarded according to what they intended.” (Bukhari 1, Muslim 1907)
A well-defined intention will keep you motivated throughout Ramadan.
Many people struggle in Ramadan because they enter it without a structured plan. Days are wasted in distractions and unnecessary activities, leaving little time for worship.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“There are two blessings which many people waste: health and free time.” (Bukhari 6412)
To avoid wasting time, create a daily schedule that prioritizes:
By planning your days and nights, you can ensure that Ramadan is spent in beneficial activities rather than regret.
Fasting can be physically challenging, especially for those who are not used to long hours without food and drink. The Prophet ﷺ prepared for Ramadan by fasting frequently in Sha’ban:
“The Prophet used to fast more in Sha’ban than in any other month, except Ramadan.” (Bukhari 1970, Muslim 1156)
Fasting before Ramadan helps the body adjust, making the transition easier. You can begin by fasting on Mondays and Thursdays or on the White Days (13th, 14th, and 15th of each Islamic month).
Alongside fasting, a healthy diet is essential. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized eating in moderation:
“The son of Adam does not fill any vessel worse than his stomach…” (Tirmidhi 2380, Ibn Majah 3349)
To ensure high energy levels during fasting:
By making these small adjustments before Ramadan, you can avoid health issues and stay active for worship.
Ramadan is not just about personal growth—it is also a time for giving and helping those in need. The Prophet ﷺ was known for his generosity, especially in Ramadan:
“The Prophet was the most generous of people, and he was even more generous in Ramadan.” (Bukhari 3554, Muslim 2308)
To prepare for Ramadan, consider:
Even small acts of kindness—like helping someone in need or feeding a fasting person—bring immense rewards in Ramadan.
Ramadan is a time to strengthen ties with family, friends, and the Muslim community. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized the importance of kindness and good character:
“The best of you are those who are best to their families.” (Tirmidhi 3895)
Make an effort to:
Strengthening these relationships will enhance the spiritual atmosphere in your home.
Ramadan is a golden opportunity to transform your faith, habits, and connection with Allah. By preparing early, you can maximize your worship, maintain consistency, and grow spiritually.
Start today by:
May Allah grant us the ability to welcome Ramadan with open hearts and sincerity. Ameen.
