Seven things to do before Ramadan
Ramadan is a time when the good deeds, actions and words of believers are most rewarded. Consequently, every good deed of a believer brings him even greater reward, while the punishment for everything bad is increased.
Ramadan is an opportunity for a Muslim to reconsider their outlook on life, on worldly things and to prioritise. A believer should not miss this opportunity. This holy month is the pinnacle of worship of Allah, manifesting itself both physically and mentally.
And, just as before an upcoming important undertaking, it is necessary to thoroughly prepare for this sacred period. Many perceive preparation for Ramadan only as preparation for fasting and forget other important aspects.
- Intention
First, the most important component of any action in Islam is intention. Our actions, including acts of worship, are judged by our intention. Moreover, sometimes a believer’s intention can be more valuable than his actions.
Before entering the month of Ramadan, make the intention to sincerely worship Allah and spend the month properly. Before Ramadan begins, you must prepare your heart for good deeds.
Reading the Holy Koran, performing extra prayers, giving alms, and worshiping Allah in the mosque: these are the things you should occupy yourself with throughout the month. It is also important to remember to make the intention each night to fast the following day.
- Sincere repentance
Ramadan can be a new starting point for each of us: it is a chance to start a life with a clean slate and atone for our sins. A Muslim should enter the holy month cleansed of the sins.
It is worth noting that repentance is obligatory for Muslims at any time but, as the great month approaches, it is even more important to hasten to repent of sins so that, with the beginning of the blessed month, believers can fully immerse themselves in worship with a pure heart and peace of mind.
- Make a list of things to do during Ramadan
Any important task should have an action plan. Include both obligatory and optional actions. It will be easier to remember and accomplish everything you want if you have a ready-made program and list in front of you.
Develop a strict daily routine. This is similar to going to the store with a prepared grocery list. This list should cover every aspect of your life: your relationship with Allah, knowledge, activities, volunteer work, community, relatives, friends, family, health, self-improvement (character, speech, religiosity, etc.).
Once you have a list and action plan ready, attach sincere intentions to each action and look forward to the start of Ramadan knowing what activities to engage in. And most importantly, try not to waste the precious time of the holy month.
- Prepare for Ramadan physically
You should avoid fried and spicy foods, strong coffee, and carbonated drinks, as they can worsen your health.
- Gain knowledge
In order to maximise the time spent, experience the blessings of Ramadan and reap greater rewards for fasting and other good deeds, you should gain knowledge about the etiquette of this month. Read articles, hadiths and books about Ramadan and fasting, and listen to lectures and khutbahs (sermons) on the topic.
- Pay off your debts
Every Muslim should pay off all debts, if any, before the month of Ramadan and complete any unfinished business so that they can devote the entire month of Ramadan to worship. It is imperative to complete any tasks that could distract you from acts of worship.
- Read the Koran
This holy book should never be out of the hands of a Muslim and, as the holy month approaches, believers should pay even more attention to the words of God the Almighty. This book not only provides knowledge but also strengthens the faith and sets the right mood for the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. The month of Sha’ban was named the month of Koran reciters.
This is not a complete list of tasks a believer must complete before the beginning of Ramadan. Not everyone manages to complete all of these planned tasks. Therefore, try to complete at least those that are within your capabilities.
May the Almighty grant us the strength, knowledge and faith to properly welcome and spend the holy month of Ramadan.
