What The Holy Quran Says About Ramadan

Ramadan Quotes from the Holy Quran

The verses from the Noble Quran below mention the significance of Ramadan and answer various questions. 

Why do Muslims Fast?

Allah (SWT) 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". [Al-Baqarah 2:183] 

With the above verse, the Holy Quran makes it clear that fasting is compulsory for all able Muslims and that they have to observe the fasting month to achieve righteousness. 

"...But to fast is best for you, if you only knew." – [Al-Baqarah 2:184] 

Science and medicine today have confirmed numerous health benefits of fasting for a month in a year. It is a great way to cleanse the stomach, besides containing many health benefits for the brain.

The Holy Quran was Revealed in Ramadan

"The month of Ramadhan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So, whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey - then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful." [Al-Baqarah 2:185] 

One of the striking features of the holy month is that the Holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) during this time. This book of guidance is an invaluable treasure for humankind, with Divine direction on how to live life as a good Muslim. 

"Allah is with those who restrain themselves." [Al-Quran 16: 128]

What is Ramadan in Islam?

The blessed month of fasting contains great virtue in Islam. Fasting is the fourth pillar of the Muslim faith. It is a means of attaining piety and God-consciousness. One of the Quranic verses mentions taqwa, which means doing what Allah has enjoined and avoiding what He has forbidden. Fasting in Ramadan is one of the greatest means of helping a person fulfil the commands of Islam. 

Fasting teaches restraint, the ability to control worldly desires and spend time in prayer and meditation. The Quranic verses about Ramadan clearly explain these requirements and characteristics of the noble month. 

Blessing of Laylat-al-Qadr

Allah (SWT) has granted special virtue to this month by placing Laylat-al-Qadr within it.

“Indeed, it is We Who sent this Quran down on the Night of Qadr. And what will make you realise what the Night of Qadr is? The Night of Al-Qadr is better than a thousand months. Therein descend the angels and the Rooh [Jibreel (Gabriel)] by Allah’s Permission with all Decrees, there is peace until the appearance of dawn." [Al-Qadar 97:1-5] 

In another Chapter of the Quran:

“We sent it (this Quran) down on a blessed night [(i.e. the Night of Al-Qadr) in the month of Ramadan — the 9th month of the Islamic calendar]. Verily, We are ever warning [mankind that Our Torment will reach those who disbelieve in Our Oneness of Lordship and in Our Oneness of worship].” [al-Dukhan 44:3] 

Laylat-al-Qadr is the prized jewel of Ramadan. This night carries more blessings than a thousand months. Muslims spend this night in prayer and meditation, making dua and seeking forgiveness for past sins. There is salvation in this night, a chance to be cleansed of all sins and re-born as a righteous Muslim.

Hadith About Ramadan

There are numerous quotes about Ramadan among narrations from the Prophet (PBUH). The Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said:

“Whoever fasts Ramadan out of faith and in hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven. [Bukhari (38) and Muslim (759)] 

In another hadith, The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) is reported to have said:

“There has come to you Ramadan, a blessed month which Allah has enjoined you to fast, during which the gates of heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and the rebellious devils are chained up. In it there is a night which is better than a thousand months, and whoever is deprived of its goodness is indeed deprived.” [Nasai, 2106; Ahmad, 8769]

Ramadan is a gift from Allah (SWT), an opportunity for Muslims to capitalise on and earn His blessings, as well as a way to seek salvation and forgiveness. The believers are strongly encouraged to make the most of this month and fulfil the purpose of Ramadan. Use the inspirational reminders from the Quran and hadith to make this Ramadan the best Ramadan yet. 

Charity During Ramadan

Since Ramadan encourages Muslims to be the best versions of themselves, it’s a very charitable month. You can work to fulfil your duty to Allah (SWT) by donating to Muslim Aid here.