The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said:
“There has come to you Ramadan, a blessed month. Allah has made it obligatory for you to fast (this month). During it the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are locked, and the devils are chained up. In it, there is a night that is better than a thousand months, and whoever is deprived of its goodness is deprived indeed.” [al-Nasai, 4/129]
Ramadan is the month of mercy. This glorious month is characterised by the compassion and forgiveness of Allah (SWT). In an authentic hadith, the Prophet (SAW) said:
“Whoever fasts Ramadan out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.”
The dua made by the fasting person holds special significance, particularly the supplication of Iftar time. According to hadith, the dua made at the time of breaking the fast carries guaranteed acceptance.
“There are three whose dua is not rejected: a just ruler, the fasting person when he breaks his fast and the prayer of the oppressed person.” [Tirmidhi, 2525]
A great reflection of the mercy of Allah (SWT) in this month is the revelation of the ultimate guidance – the holy Quran. The first verses of the Quran came down in this noble month through the angel Jibril. Revealed to the Prophet of Mercy (SAW), the Quran was sent to guide all humankind. It is through His compassion that Allah (SWT) gave His creation the criterion to recognise truth from falsehood.
“The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Quran was revealed as guidance for mankind, and as clear signs that show the right way and distinguish between right and wrong.” [al-Baqarah 2:185]
The night on which the Quran was revealed has been made the most blessed night. This virtuous night is better than a thousand months, as mentioned in Surah Al-Qadr.
The virtuous deeds performed on the night of Qadr are increased manifold in reward. Every act of worship on this special night is better than those accomplished in a thousand months in the light of the above verses.
Ramadan is the most anticipated month for Muslims. The holy month shades the believers with divine mercy and innumerable blessings. It brings great opportunities to attain piety and good character. During this noble month, rewards are multiplied, prayers are granted, and important matters are decreed. Because of its special virtue, believers make special preparations to welcome the holy month. The righteous Muslims of earlier generations used to make the below supplication before entering the blessed month.
“O Allah, keep me safe until Ramadan, keep Ramadan safe for me, and accept it from me.”
By means of dua, they used to ask Allah (SWT) to help them reach Ramadan in good health and give them the ability to do good deeds in the month of mercy.
A distinguished scholar stressed the importance of Ramadan preparations in the following words:
“The month of Rajab is the month for planting, the month of Sha’ban is the month of irrigating the crops, and the month of Ramadan is the month of harvesting the crops.” [Abu Bakr al-Balkhi]
It is important to increase in repentance and form a sincere intention for fasting before the beginning of the month. The following advice is beneficial for everyone who intends to fast this Ramadan.
Fasting for a few days in Sha’ban, the month before Ramadan, is a commendable act on the believers’ part. It prepares our bodies for Ramadan fasting in a more gradual and steady manner. It is a confirmed Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW) to fast in Sha’ban. It is reported by Aishah (R.A.) that he never fasted on so many days as in the month of Sha’ban besides Ramadan.
“I never saw him fast in any month more than he fasted in Sha’ban. He used to fast all of Sha’ban, and he used to fast all of Sha’ban apart from a few days.” [Muslim 1156]
It is a good idea to tidy your home and make it clutter-free before the arrival of Ramadan. This will provide you with peace during your Ramadan activities and a greater focus on your worship. Ramadan decorations can be bought online and used to create a welcoming atmosphere. Children can also help with this, which will increase their excitement about fasting.
Plan your recitation and duas for the month of Ramadan. It is also a great idea to try to finish the Quran recitation you have already started. This will allow you to complete the whole Quran in the month of Ramadan. The believers are encouraged to attend lessons on Tafseer – understanding the Quran and the life of the Prophet (PBUH). Plan your study circles and tarawih participation beforehand to make the most of the holy month.
Charity is highly encouraged in Islam. The believers spend on people in need with the intention of seeking forgiveness and achieving purification. It is worthwhile to start the month of Ramadan in a state of purity and righteousness. Increase your generosity this Sha’ban and aim to reach the desired level of piety with sincere donations.
You can give your donations to Muslim Aid to help those in great need. Muslim Aid helps orphans, widows and the vulnerable in impoverished regions across the world. Donate generously to its Ramadan appeal and help save lives.
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