Preparing the Heart and Home for Ramadan (3 of 5)

We should not treat the month of Ramadan like any other month of the year. It is the month that carries many blessings by design. Allah Ta‘ala designated it to be the month of fasting, the revelation of the Qur’an, the month of the Night of Blessing (Laylat al‑Qadr), and many more. Because of this, we have to get ready for it on different levels. I mentioned a few in the last two letters, and here are two more: making time for it, and reserving some money for it.

Ramadan is honored in the Qur’an when Allah says,

“The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Qur’an was revealed, a guidance for mankind…” (2:185). And regarding Laylat al‑Qadr, He reminds us, “The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” (97:3).

A month that carries such divine gifts deserves preparation of the heart, the schedule, and the resources.

In Ramadan, I hope you will allocate quality time for religious activities beyond Taraweeh prayer. This includes reading a portion of the Holy Qur’an every day, making istighfār and dhikr at the blessed time of Fajr and before ifṭār, and taking the time to check on your family and friends—especially those in need—throughout the month. The Prophet ﷺ taught us to value our time when he said,

“Take advantage of five before five…”

and among them he mentioned free time before becoming busy. Ramadan is the perfect opportunity to reclaim our time for Allah and nourish the soul.

I would also like you to designate some money or useful products for Ramadan to be distributed to the needy in society. Like any successful merchant who takes advantage of the best market conditions, Ramadan is the best market to spend in the way of Allah. Allah Ta‘ala says,

“O you who believe, shall I guide you to a trade that will save you from a painful punishment? Believe in Allah and His Messenger and strive in the cause of Allah with your wealth and your lives—that is best for you, if only you knew.” (61:10–11).

The Prophet ﷺ himself was described as more generous in Ramadan than the blowing wind, showing us that giving in this month is an act beloved to Allah and multiplied in reward.

I hope and pray that Allah helps us to reach and enjoy the month of Ramadan. Ameen.