Ramadan Mubarak! If you're reading this, you've reached another Ramadan! Alhamdulillah, congratulations! Now, let's ensure we make the most of this blessed time. But how can we improve upon last Ramadan? Well, it starts with planning and execution. Fortunately, I'm here to simplify it for you.
Below is 10 things you can incorporate to start your Ramadan with a bang!
1. Quran
The month of Ramadan, often referred to as the month of the Quran, holds special significance as it marks the revelation of the Quran.
It's a time dedicated to rekindling our bond with the Quran and integrating it into our daily lives. Through the wisdom and guidance it offers, the Quran becomes our path to strengthening faith and deepening our connection with the Creator.
Any effort, whether it's engaging with a page, a surah, or even a single ayah, is a positive step toward connecting with the Quran and nurturing our spiritual growth.
2. Knowledge
This month is an excellent opportunity to expand your knowledge and explore topics that pique your curiosity or interest. For instance, you might dive deeper into a specific surah in the Quran, study Hadiths, or dive into the stories of the prophets.
Additionally, platforms like YouTube offer a wealth of Islamic content, with channels such as Yaqeen's "30 for 30 Quran" series providing valuable insights and reflections.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZ-kJznJU9E&t=2s
3. Dhikr
Engaging in dhikr is among the simplest ways to enhance ibadah during the month of Ramadan. You can seamlessly incorporate it into your daily routine while driving, walking, cleaning, or working.
Particularly by uttering "Astaghfirullah," you enhance the effectiveness of your Dua, increasing the likelihood of them being answered, thereby amplifying the blessings bestowed upon you by Allah.
4. Charity
During Ramadan, we often find ourselves reflecting on various aspects of life, particularly those who are less fortunate and lack the means to break their fast. It's a period when we're called to open our hearts and wallets, to be generous in our giving to those in need.
Hadith from Abu Hurairah r.a that Rasulullah SAW had said which means: "Charity does not in any way decrease wealth, no one forgives another except that Allah increases his honor, and no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah except that Allah raises his status."
Don't perceive giving as diminishing your wealth; quite the contrary, it's a means of increasing it. There are numerous avenues for giving during Ramadan, whether it's lending a hand in your community or supporting reputable charity organizations that aid people globally.
5. Dua
Dua, or supplication, is the most powerful tool we possess as Muslims. And there's no better time to earnestly supplicate to our Creator than now. During Ramadan, the effectiveness of our prayers is magnified, with blessings guaranteeing that our supplications are answered abundantly.
Abu Hurayrah said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There are three whose du’aa’ is not rejected: a just ruler, the fasting person when he breaks his fast and the prayer of the oppressed person. It rises above the clouds and the gates of heaven are opened for it, and the Lord, may He be glorified, says, ‘By My Glory I will answer you even if it is after a while.’”
So, raise your hands and humbly ask for whatever you desire from the One who created everything. This is your opportunity to transform your life! Don't hesitate to dream big and make your requests known— and be surprised by the outcome!
6. Taraweeh
Taraweeh is a voluntary night prayer observed during Ramadan, and it's a significant act of worship that we should all prioritize during this blessed month. Especially during the last 10 days and on Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power, where our destinies can change. It's crucial to seize this opportunity to ask the Lord of the Worlds for what you desire. If you seek to change your situation, now is the perfect time to do so!
In one hadith, narrated by Abu Huraira, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) even said, “Whoever stands (in the voluntary night prayer of) Ramadan out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.”
7. Tahajud
Tahajud the night prayer is a perfect opportunity to draw closer to Allah.
Prophet (pbuh) said: “The Lord descends every night to the lowest heaven when one-third of the night remains and says: ‘Who will call upon Me, that I may answer Him? Who will ask of Me, that I may give him? Who will seek My forgiveness, that I may forgive him?’” [Bukhari and Muslim]
If waking up for Tahajjud is challenging, you can opt for praying two rakats after Isha instead. Alternatively, if you can wake up 30-40 minutes before Fajr, you can perform Tahajjud then. Choose the option that fits best with your lifestyle and schedule.
Tahajjud prayer is an exclusive invitation, so set your intention to wake up for it and accept the invitation extended by the One who created us all.
Use this precious time to pour out your heart's desires in supplication.
8. Qiyam
Qiyam literally means standing in the night. It's a dedicated period for prayer, anytime after Isha and before daybreak. You can utilize this time for prayer and remembrance of Allah, whether it's reading Quran, engaging in dhikr , or sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Qiyam al-Layl encompasses all the supplications we make as Muslims, while Tahajjud specifically refers to prayers performed during the night. Qiyam provides an excellent opportunity to catch up on missed activities from the day, such as reading Quran or engaging in dhikr.
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "Whoever prays Qiyam during Ramadan out of faith and in the hope of reward, he will be forgiven his previous sins."
9. Family
Ramadan is a time to slow down and focus on what truly matters, family. Coming together for Iftar allows us to bond, share stories, and reconnect after a day of fasting. Cooking together, exploring new recipes, and enjoying meals strengthen our family ties. Attending Taraweeh prayers and sharing Suhoor deepen our spiritual connection as a family.
These moments create lasting memories and remind us to cherish the blessing of having each other. Ramadan is an opportunity for families to learn, grow, and strengthen their bonds together.
Aisha reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “The best of you are the best to their families, and I am the best to my family. When your companion dies, then do not abuse him.”
10. Salat
Salat, the act of prayer, is a crucial part of a Muslim's life. Its significance is particularly emphasized during Ramadan.
The fast of one who does not pray is not valid and is not accepted, because the one who does not pray is a kaafir and an apostate, because Allah says in Quran 9: 11.
If praying Salah is challenging for you, make sure to invest time in improving it. Strengthening your relationship with Salah will, in turn, enhance your connection with Allah.
Now that you have some ideas on how to make your Ramadan successful, take the time to choose your focus for this Ramadan and pursue it wholeheartedly! If this blog has been helpful to you, please let us know and make dua for me ! I would also love to hear about your experience.