Preparing for Ramadan and Mindful of Time

As we approach the blessed month of Ramadan, we are reminded of the fragility of life, as recent earthquakes have claimed the lives of many. Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala; May He be glorified and exalted) reminds us in the Quran: "Wherever you are, death will overtake you, even if you are in fortresses built up strong and high!" [Surah An-Nisa 4:78]. We must take this as a reminder to always prepare for the hereafter, for our time in this world is fleeting.

Ramadan is the month of immense blessings and forgiveness. Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala; May He be glorified and exalted) 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" [Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183]. This is a time for us to purify our hearts and strive to become better Muslims. It is a time to increase our worship and our good deeds, seeking the pleasure of Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala; May He be glorified and exalted).

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ; peace be upon him) said: "When Ramadan enters, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the devils are chained." [Sahih Al-Bukhari]. This is a time of great opportunity for us to draw closer to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala; May He be glorified and exalted) and seek His mercy and forgiveness. It is a time to strengthen our relationship with Him and with our fellow human beings.

Let us take the lessons of the recent earthquakes as a reminder to always prepare for the hereafter, and let us use the upcoming month of Ramadan to draw closer to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala; May He be glorified and exalted) and seek His forgiveness and mercy. May Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala; May He be glorified and exalted) guide us and bless us in this life and in the hereafter. Ameen.

[Ibn Mas’ud (radiAllahu’anhu; may Allah be pleased with him)]