The Importance of Preparing for Ramadan

The blessed month of Ramadan is a spiritual healer for the believer. Many Muslims around the world will be fasting during Ramadan but there's an opportunity to do more. After 11 months of being busy with work, school, or other affairs, Ramadan slows us down to reflect. 

What is consuming most of our day? Does it align with our God-given purpose? Are we satisfied with our lives? And if not, what should we be doing to change ourselves?  

Why is preparing for Ramadan important?

Allah tells us in Surah Adh-Dariyat (51:56), 

‘I did not create jinn and humans except to worship Me.’

This verse tells us how important it is to remember our religion in every aspect of our life. Allah has commanded us to worship Him, but He has also given us free will. We must think about this in our daily lives and strive to live a life that sees us flourish through worship. 

The holy month of Ramadan is almost here. Before we know it, Ramadan will knock on our doorstep, and with it comes a wave of physical and spiritual blessings. But the question remains; have we prepared for this meeting?

It is reported that Muʿlā b. Al-Faḍl (may Allāh have mercy on him) said: They (the Salaf) used to supplicate to Allāh for six months asking Him to help them reach the month of Ramaḍān; and then they used to supplicate for six months that Allāh accept [their fasting and other worship in Ramaḍān].

Abul-Qāsim Al-Aṣbahānī, Al-Targhīb wa Al-Tarhīb (article 1761)

Preparing for the month of Ramadan is crucial - that way we can maximise our productivity and earn more rewards. It's a way to show our respect for the month, ultimately reminding us of our true purpose. 

Now that we understand why it is so important to prepare for Ramadan, let's explore tips for setting Ramadan goals.

Tips for Preparing for the month of Ramadan

Abu Dharr reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said,

“Allah Almighty says: Whoever comes with a good deed will have the reward of ten like it and even more. Whoever comes with an evil deed will be recompensed for one evil deed like it or he will be forgiven. 

Whoever draws close to Me by the length of a hand, I will draw close to him by the length of an arm. Whoever draws close to Me the by length of an arm, I will draw close to him by the length of a fathom. Whoever comes to Me walking, I will come to him running. Whoever meets Me with enough sins to fill the earth, not associating any partners with Me, I will meet him with as much forgiveness.”

- Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2687

Ramadan is the month to take many steps towards Allah with our good actions, thus gaining nearness to Allah. 

It is important to set goals from now; What are you hoping to achieve in this month? And how can we prepare for this? Let's set our intentions in the leadup to Ramadan, and reap the benefits as an Ummah! 

When a friend visits us, we earnestly prepare for their arrival. We carefully design the house, paying attention to every detail. We provide a lot of food and snacks and make sure our guest has a nice stay. When Eid arrives, we always make sure to adorn ourselves and our kids with new clothes and beautiful perfume. 

Similarly, preparing for the arrival of our most comforting friend (Ramadan) is just as important as getting ready for other important things. Here are some Ramadan tips to help you prepare: 

• Daily Quran Reading: Begin with reading a verse a day to build a habit that will carry you through Ramadan and beyond.
• Modest Dressing: If you're considering wearing the hijab, start updating your wardrobe now to ease into dressing modestly during Ramadan.
• Increased Mosque Visits: Plan to add extra prayers at the mosque to your daily routine, gradually preparing yourself for more frequent visits during Ramadan.
• Charitable Giving Plan: Establish a regular giving schedule. Even small, consistent donations can have a significant impact and may be more rewarding.
• Personal Reflection: Dedicate a few minutes each night to journal your thoughts, feelings, and spiritual goals. Reflecting on your progress and challenges can enhance your Ramadan experience.
• Community Involvement: Engage with your community by joining or organising iftars, Quran study groups, or charity events. Sharing experiences can amplify your spiritual journey.
• Physical Preparation: Gradually adjust your sleep schedule to accommodate suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and tahajjud (night prayer). Plan nutritious meals for suhoor and iftar to maintain your energy throughout the day.
• Digital Detox: Commit to reducing screen time, especially on social media. Use this time instead for additional prayers, reading Quran, or connecting with family and friends in more meaningful ways.

Bonus Tip: Make the most of every single day with automated giving

Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Take up good deeds only as much as you are able, for the best deeds are those done regularly even if they are few.”

Source: Sunan Ibn Mājah 4240

If you want to catch the reward of charity for every single day of Ramadan, our Set and Forget campaign is now live. It allows you to customise daily donations throughout the month to causes that matter to you!

The campaign allows you to support by donating towards one cause or towards different causes every ten days. You can choose the amount most suitable for you and help those around the world whilst gaining rewards for yourself too.

Click here to check out our set and forget campaign.

Set Your Ramadan Goals Today!

As Ramadan approaches, taking the time to prepare spiritually and practically sets the foundation for a truly transformative month. Remember, Ramadan is not just a time for fasting but an opportunity for profound personal growth, increased charity, and deepened community connections. 

We can greatly benefit from this special month by having clear goals. Additionally, slowly adding more worship to our daily routine can also contribute to our benefits. Lastly, being generous is another way to maximize the advantages of this month. 

Let this Ramadan be a turning point, a healer for the heart and soul, guiding us closer to our Creator and the true essence of our being.