Preparation For Ramadan

If we really want to make the best of this Ramadhan, then we need to prepare for it now! As we know, fasting is more than just abstaining from food but from indecent speech and lustful desires as well. Fasting pushes us to be cognizant of our actions, to be patient and to be moral individuals, thereby increasing our taqwa (God-consciousness). Here are some ways we can improve on different aspects of our life so we can fully benefit from Ramadhan.

Fast Voluntarily: The month of Sha’ban is the prime time to start fasting those extra fasts or making up your missed fasts from last Ramadhan. Moreover, the best way to prepare fasting for a whole month is to start fasting often, in order to gain control over your actions, stomach and desires. Usamah ibn Zayd (radiAllahu ‘anhu; may Allah be pleased with him) said: I said, “Oh Messenger of Allah, I do not see you fasting in any other month like you fast in Sha’ban.” He said, ”That is a month to which people do not pay attention, between Rajab and Ramadhan, and it is a month in which deeds are lifted up to the Lord of the Worlds. I like for my deeds to be lifted up when I am fasting.” [Narrated by al-Nasaai]

Recite and Reflect Upon the Qur’an: Start now to reflect on portions of the Qur’an to get closer to Allah and understand your responsibilities. Every single time you read the Qur’an, you will uncover more depths of meaning and benefit in this world and the hereafter.

Follow the Sunnah and Pray Extra Prayers: Learn more about the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ; peace be upon him) and follow him by emulating his actions. Allah (‘azza wa jal; The Possessor of Complete Glory and Majesty) says in His perfect words: “Say, (Oh Muhammad), If you should love Allah, then follow me, (so) Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” [Surah al-‘Imran 3:31]

Repent and Make Dua: We all make mistakes, but Alhamdulillah (All Praise be to Allah) we can always repent.

Give Charity: This world can only be a better place if we help each other. In return, Allah rewards us in both worlds. Allah (‘azza wa jal; The Possessor of Complete Glory and Majesty) says in His perfect words: “Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He will multiply it for him and he will have a noble reward?” [Surah al-Hadid 57:11]

Improve Your Character: Everyone can be a little bit more kind and work on different aspects of their character. The Prophet (ﷺ; peace be upon him) said: “The best amongst you are those who have the best manners and character.” [Bukhari]

Eat Healthy and Moderately: With less time to eat in Ramadhan, we really need to pay attention to what we eat. Now is the best time to research the nutritious value of the food we eat. While we fast, the food we eat before we start our fast or to break our fast needs to provide the optimal energy so we can accomplish our daily tasks and increase our worship.

Suggested good deed

We would go to great lengths to plan and prepare before the arrival of an esteemed guest, and naturally we would draft and revise plans on how to spend time with that guest. Well… we are now in the month of Sha’ban which precedes the great month of Ramadan full of its virtues. Have a plan on how you wish to spend this month. Sit down with your loved ones, and restructure your schedule to enable you to get the most out of it in sha Allah!