Ramadan Preparation: As we approach the blessed month of Ramadan, it’s crucial for us to know How to Prepare for Ramadan spiritually, mentally, and physically to maximize the blessings of this sacred time. In today’s article, we’ll delve into practical ways to prepare for Ramadan based on the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him.
Ramadan Preparation: A Guide
1) Fasting Voluntarily
The companions of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, used to prepare for Ramadan months in advance and one of the best ways to do so is by fasting voluntarily.
As narrated by Usama bin Zayed (may Allah be pleased with him), the Prophet, peace be upon him, emphasized the significance of fasting in the month of Shaban.
He said: “I said, ‘Oh Messenger of Allah, I do not see you fasting in any other month like you fast in Shabaan.’ He said, ‘That is a month to which people do not pay attention, between Rajab and Ramadan, and it is a month in which deeds are lifted up to the Lord of the Worlds. I like for my deeds to be lifted up when I am fasting.’” (Narrated by al-Nasaai)
So as we are approaching the blessed month of Ramadan, Let’s take heed of his guidance and start practicing fasting now to gain control over our actions, stomachs, and desires.
Allah says in the Quran, “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” (Surah Al Baqara, Verse No. 183)
In a hadith narrated by Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him), the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, recommended fasting on Mondays and Thursdays as well as during the white days of each Islamic month.
Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “The deeds are presented on Monday and Thursday. Thus, I love for my deeds to be presented while I am fasting.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhī 747)
Narrated Qatadah Ibn Malhan al-Qaysi:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to command us to fast the days of the white (nights): thirteenth, fourteenth and fifteenth of the month. He said: This is like keeping perpetual fast. (Sunan Abi Dawud 2449)
Read more about fasting on the white days in Islam.
2) Start Reading Quran
Another essential aspect of Ramadan preparation is deepening our connection with the Quran as narrated by Mother Aisha, May Allah be pleased with her.
The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, taught us that the beauty of Quranic recitation attracts the company of noble angels.
“Indeed the one who recites the Qur’an beautifully, smoothly and precisely, will be in the company of the noble and obedient angels. As for the one who recites with difficulty, stammering or stumbling through its verses, then he will have twice that reward.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 4937)
Therefore, let’s make it a habit to recite and reflect upon the Quran daily, seeking guidance and wisdom from its verses.
And remember, every moment spent with the Quran brings us closer to Allah and enriches our spiritual journey.
3) Following the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW)
In addition to fasting and Quranic recitation, we should strive to follow the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Mohammed, Peace be upon him, as Allah commands in the Quran, “Say O Muhammad to mankind, if you should love Allah then follow me, so Allah will love you and forgive your sins.” [Quran 3:31] Let’s follow the actions of our Prophet, peace be upon him, by increasing our voluntary prayers and seeking closeness to Allah through acts of worship.
4) Seeking Repentance from Allah
As human beings, we all make mistakes but the beauty of Islam lies in the opportunity for repentance and seeking forgiveness from Allah as Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said,
“Every son of Adam commits sin and the best of those who commit sin are those who repent.” [Sunan al-Tirmidhī 2499]
Let’s take advantage of this precious opportunity to repent sincerely and make heartfelt dua for ourselves and our loved ones.
5) Giving Sadaqah/ Charity
Ramadan is also a time for generosity and compassion towards others as narrated by the Prophet Mohammed, Peace be upon him,
“Allah helps his righteous servant as long as his servant helps their fellow brother or sister.” [Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2699]
Let’s open our hearts to those less fortunate, knowing that every act of charity is a means of purification for our souls and a source of blessings in this life and the hereafter.
6) Improving Your Character
Lastly, let’s focus on improving our character and manners as emphasized by the Prophet Muhammad, Peace be upon him, he said
“The best amongst you are those who have the best manners and character.” [Sahih al-Bukhari 3559]
Let’s strive to embody the noble traits of patience, kindness, and compassion in our interactions with others.
Thereby reflecting the beauty of Islam in our daily lives.
7) Eating Less and Eating Healthy
And finally, as we prepare for Ramadan, let’s not forget the importance of eating healthily and moderately.
As advised by Ash Shafi, Overeating can hinder our worship and spiritual growth.
Ashafi said, “I have not filled myself in 16 years because filling oneself makes the body heavy, removes clean understanding, induces sleep and makes one week for worship.”So let’s make conscious choices about the food we consume, ensuring that it nourishes our bodies and energizes us for worship during Ramadan.
Also Read: Foods mentioned in the Quran and Hadith
In conclusion, dear brothers and sisters, let’s make the most of this upcoming Ramadan by preparing ourselves spiritually, mentally, and physically.
May Allah grant us the strength and guidance to maximize the blessings of this sacred month.
This was the Ramadan Preparation checklist. Read more Islamic Blogs or Follow us on social media for daily Islamic reminders.
