How to Prepare for Ramadan and Embrace the Month of Blessings

The month of Ramadan is a time of immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. It is a month in which Allah (SWT) has ordained fasting as an act of worship, purification, and gratitude. As the blessed month draws near, it is crucial for Muslims to prepare themselves physically, mentally, and spiritually to reap the rewards it offers. Allah says in the Qur’an: 

 “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous. (Al-Baqarah, 2:183).

This verse reminds us that fasting is not merely abstaining from food and drink but a means of attaining Taqwa (piety). Proper preparation will in shaa Allah help us make the most of Ramadan and strengthen our relationship with Allah.  Here are few ways that we can prepare for The Glorious month:

1. Reaffirm Your Intention

In Islam, intentions (An-Niyyah) are the foundation of all acts of worship. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

 “Actions are judged by intentions, and everyone will be rewarded according to what they intended” (Bukhari, Bad’ al-Wahy, 1).

As we approach Ramadan, let us renew our intentions to fast sincerely for the sake of Allah, seeking His pleasure and forgiveness. Reflect on the purpose of Ramadan as a means of spiritual growth and purification. 

2. Educate Yourself About Ramadan

Understanding the significance of Ramadan can enhance your worship. Reflect on the following Hadith: 

“When Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained” (Bukhari, 3277; Muslim, 1079). 

This Hadith highlights the unique blessings of Ramadan. Study the rules of fasting, the importance of Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), and the recommended acts such as increasing Qur’an recitation, engaging in Dhikr, and performing Tarawih prayers. 

3. Seek Forgiveness and Repent

Ramadan is an opportunity to start anew, but this process begins with repentance. Allah says: 

“And turn to Allah in repentance, all of you, O believers, that you might succeed” (An-Nur, 24:31). 

Prepare for Ramadan by seeking forgiveness for past sins. This will soften your heart and make you more receptive to the spiritual opportunities of the month. 

4. Develop a Plan for Qur’an Recitation

Ramadan is the month of the Qur’an, as Allah revealed: 

“The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion” (Al-Baqarah, 2:185).

Set a realistic goal for completing the Qur’an during Ramadan. Divide its 30 parts (Juz’) over the days of the month. Reflect on its meanings and strive to implement its teachings in your life. 

5. Perform Voluntary Acts of Worship

Before Ramadan, establish a habit of voluntary fasting, particularly on Mondays and Thursdays, as was the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This will prepare your body and soul for the obligatory fasts of Ramadan.  The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

 “Whoever fasts a day in the way of Allah, Allah will remove his face from the Hellfire a distance of seventy years” (Muslim 2/808). 

Additionally, increase acts of charity, prayer, and remembrance of Allah. 

6. Plan Your Time and Resources

Ramadan is not only about fasting but also about time management and prioritizing acts of worship. Make a schedule for your daily prayers, Qur’an recitation, Tarawih, and other spiritual activities.  Allocate resources for charity, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) was the most generous during Ramadan:  It was narrated that Ibn ‘Abbaas said:

“The Prophet was the most generous of all people, and he used to be more generous during the month of Ramadan”. The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was the most generous person, even more generous than the strong uncontrollable wind (in readiness and haste to do charitable deeds).” (Bukhari, 6; Muslim, 2308). 

7. Strengthen Family and Community Bonds

Ramadan is a time for togetherness. Plan communal iftar gatherings, encourage family members to join prayers, and involve children in the spirit of Ramadan. Strengthening these bonds aligns with the values of mercy and unity in Islam. 

8. Fulfill your Fasting Obligations from last Ramadan

 Completing missed fasts (Qadhaa) is a significant duty upon every Muslim before the arrival of the next Ramadan. Allah (SWT) commands:

 “…And whoever among you is ill or on a journey [during them] – then an equal number of days [are to be made up].” (Al-Baqarah, 2:184).

The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) also highlighted the importance of this obligation, as narrated by Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her):

“I used to have to make up fasts from Ramadan, and I would not be able to do so until Sha’ban due to my duties with the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).” (Muslim, 1146)

This Hadith shows that repaying missed fasts should be prioritized before the next Ramadan begins. While valid reasons such as illness or unavoidable duties might cause delay, Muslims are encouraged to avoid postponing unnecessarily.

9. Make Dua

Finally, ask Allah to grant you the blessing of witnessing Ramadan in good health and Iman. Al-Hafiz Ibn Rajab (may Allah have mercy on him) said: “Ma‘alla ibn al-Fadl said:

They used to pray to Allah for six months, may He be exalted, asking Him to cause them to reach Ramadan, and they used to call upon Him for six months asking Him to accept it from them. Yahya ibn Abi Kathir said: One of their du‘as was: “O Allah, keep me safe until Ramadan, keep Ramadan safe for me, and accept it from me.”” (Lataif al-Ma‘arif, p. 148) 

In conclusion, as Ramadan approaches, to fully embrace its blessings, we need to intentionally prepare our hearts and minds. This preparation is an act of worship and a means of making the most of this precious time. Remember, the rewards of Ramadan are immense, and Allah is ever Merciful. 

May Allah allow us to witness Ramadan and accept our fasting, prayers, and good deeds. Ameen.