More than 1.9 billion Muslims of the world approach and get ready to welcome the most awaited month of the Islamic calendar, the holy month of Ramadan. It is the month of countless blessings and mercy. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and offers a time of profound spiritual reflection and growth for Muslims worldwide. There lies a perfect opportunity for Muslims to set up and have deep contemplation to establish their relationship with Allah (The Creator) observe spiritual discipline, heightened devotion and worship.
As Allah, the Almighty Says in the Noble Quran (what means):
"O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous." [Quran; 2:183]
Embedded within the spiritual tapestry of Ramadan, Laylat al-Qadr—or the Night of Power—emerges as the pinnacle of this holy month's journey. The act of worship during Laylat al-Qadr is of incredible virtue. The Quran states that worshiping on this night is better than a thousand months of worship, highlighting its unmatched spiritual value. It is a night that encapsulates the essence of mercy, forgiveness, and blessing, offering a unique opportunity for spiritual purification and elevation.
Yet in what ways can Muslims optimize the spiritual gains of this available sacred time In this article, we'll explore seven steps to enhance your Ramadan experience.
Here is How to set up intentions and the 7 steps to maximise Ramadan.
Step 1: Setting intentions right and make a commitment.
Be mindful around what you are intending for. Fasting is more than abstaining from food and drink. It's a holistic act of worship that encompasses the body, mind, and soul. Maintain sincerity in your fast by:
Avoiding Negative Behaviors: Steer clear of gossip, anger, and other negative actions.
Being Mindful: Use the hunger and thirst as reminders of your purpose and the less fortunate.
It is very important to contemplate for what purpose it is significant to you, how do you wish to grow during this month and what value is it adding into your life journey.
Besides all other physical, mental, emotional benefits that fasting brings to you, take time out to reflect on how you can make your practice even better to maximise the outcome for transforming spiritually. Make a full commitment and be accountable.The promised rewards in terms of Blessings during the month are unlimited. Try to absorb as many rewards and good deeds as you can . Don’t let this moment go wasted without having gained something.
Allah Says in Noble Quran
"Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for
every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn." - Surah Al Qadr
Step 2: Set up the Ramadan rituals in advance.
A ritual is a series of actions that you perform mindfully and intentionally and is individual to you. Start off at least fifteen days ahead of Ramadan in the month of Shaban. While getting ready to follow the 30 days Ramadan rituals, focus on how you can align with your daily workload. Make changes to your existing routine eliminating or simply cutting down on some other less important tasks from your routine for example internet and social media. Concentrate on optimizing the value of the time you have.
Step 3: Ramadan rituals allow one to transform and evolve spiritually faster, and facilitate in becoming the best version of themselves.To truly purify the soul during the blessed month, one must have a mindset ready to embrace its sanctity and offer prayers and fasting with heartfelt gratitude. Align yourself with Quranic guidance to guard your acts, behaviours and speech while fasting. Dress modestly, honouring the sacred and most spiritual month with more humility.
Increase remembrance of Allah SWT by doing simple things such as Zikr, Hamd and Istaghfar.
As Quran mentions (33:41)
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اذْكُرُوا اللَّـهَ ذِكْرًا كَثِيرًا
"O you who have believed, remember Allah with much remembrance"
Step 4: Connecting with the Quran
The Qur'an, revealed during Ramadan, is a beacon of guidance. Focus on building a relationship with Quran. Strengthen your bond with this holy book by consistent recitation and introspection.
Step 5: Taraweeh, the special nightly prayers performed during the blessed month of Ramadan, holds a unique and esteemed place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. Taraweeh serves as a spiritual journey, allowing believers to immerse themselves in prolonged worship, deep reflection, and the melodious recitation of the Qur'an. It's a time when communities come together, standing shoulder to shoulder in Masjid, transcending racial and social barriers, united in their devotion. women enjoy the privilege of saying the Taraweeh at masjid or home. Beyond its spiritual merits, Taraweeh also reinforces discipline, perseverance, and a deeper connection to the Divine, making it an integral aspect of the Ramadan experience. Commit to offer special prayers Taraweeh/ Nawafil in night for multiplied rewards.
Step 6: Increase charity and practice generosity.
Charity, the Third Pillar of Islam, is at the Heart of the Islamic Faith. The spirit of Ramadan is deeply intertwined with compassion and generosity. Embrace acts of kindness by:
Giving Alms: Regularly donate to the needy.
Helping Others: Assist neighbors, volunteer in community projects, and spread joy wherever you go
"You will never attain piety until you spend out of what you hold dear, and whatever you may spend on anything, Allah indeed knows it. –Quran 3:92
Another verse mentions
"Quran 57:18] and (what means): {Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He will multiply it for him and he will have a noble reward?} [Quran 57:11]
The Holy Prophet (S.A.W ) said "The best charity is that given in Ramadan”- (Tirmidhi )
Step 7: Making Dua and Praying for Others
Supplication, or dua, is a powerful tool during Ramadan. Pour out your heart to Allah, asking for your needs and expressing gratitude. Remember to pray for others, invoking blessings for loved ones, the global Muslim community, and humanity at large
Pre Ramadan Checklist
Spiritual Preparation:
Prepare to fast in the month of Shaban in honour of Ramadan. Set aside the days the Prophet SWS loved to fast. Monday and Thursdays are all year recommended days for fasting.
Set up a quiet corner in your home.
Create a Prayer Schedule: Plan to increase your prayers, including Taraweeh, Tahajjud, and the five daily prayers.
Read books / articles or listen to lecture to prepare for Ramadan.
Prepare list of duas for yourself, your family, and the global community.
Set smart goals for worship - prayers, recitation of Qur'an, Zikr.
Set aside money to be given for daily charity and list down the names.
Digital Detox: Go on a "Technology Diet". Plan to reduce unnecessary screen time to maximize the benefits of Ramadan.
Prepare daily menu for Ramadan. Make healthy choices for Sahoor and Iftar, keeping in view the dietary needs.
Physical Preparation:
Health Check: Consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about fasting, especially if you have health conditions.
Adjust Your Sleep Schedule: Gradually adjust your sleep schedule to accommodate for meal times and night prayers.
Meal Planning: Plan nutritious Suhoor and Iftar meals in advance to maintain health and energy.
Hydration: Increase your water intake before Ramadan starts to ensure you're well-hydrated.
Home Preparation
Deep Clean: Clean your home thoroughly to create a peaceful environment.
Ramadan Decorations: Consider decorating your home to create a festive atmosphere for yourself and your family.
Community Engagement
Connect with Community: Look into Ramadan events at your local mosque or community center and plan how you can participate.
Family Meetings: Discuss with your family how everyone can support each other during Ramadan. Plan joint activities or meal preparations.
Financial Preparation: Budgeting for Ramadan: Allocate funds for increased grocery bills, charity, and Eid expenses to avoid financial stress.
Eid Preparation: Think ahead to Eid-ul-Fitr. Consider any gifts you want to prepare or clothing you wish to buy to avoid last-minute rushes.
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