Good planning is key to making the most of the days and nights of this holy month. This guide offers valuable tips for combining fasting, prayer and remembrance of Allah with a meaningful daily routine.
1. The right intention (niyyah) for a blessed Ramadan
The Prophet Muhammad (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said:
“Truly, actions depend on intentions.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith Nr. 1)
Every moment of Ramadan should be spent consciously and with a sincere intention. The days of fasting and the nights of prayer are an opportunity to seek Allah's pleasure. Therefore, at the beginning of the month, one should resolve to make full use of this Ramadan - be it through increased prayers, supplications (du'a) or the pursuit of knowledge.
A good method is to set yourself concrete goals: How often do you want to read the Quran? How many additional voluntary prayers do you want to perform? How can you better support your family and those in need? With a clear intention, it is easier to make Ramadan meaningful.
2. Time management: structuring the day after worship
A well-planned daily routine helps you to experience Ramadan intensively without getting stressed. Here are some tips on how to make the most of the time:
Before Fajr Prayer (Suhoor Time)
- Begin the day with Suhoor to gain strength for fasting.
- Use time for Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and Istighfar (seeking forgiveness).
- Perform Fajr prayer punctually and with full attention.
During the Day (while fasting)
- If possible, schedule Quran recitation into your daily routine, such as during breaks or on the way to work.
- Perform the noon and afternoon prayers (Dhuhr and Asr) mindfully and complement them with short Du'as.
- Use fasting to remain patient and strengthen your self-control.
After Maghrib and Iftar
- After breaking the fast, don't immediately immerse yourself in worldly matters, but perform Maghrib prayer mindfully.
- Use the opportunity for supplications, as Allah is especially merciful during these moments.
After Isha Prayer (Tarawih Time)
- Pray the Tarawih prayers with full devotion.
- Schedule regular Quran recitation during this quiet time.
- End the day with gratitude and prepare for the next night.
3. The Importance of Quran and Knowledge in Ramadan
Allah reveals in the Quran:
"The month of Ramadan is that in which the Quran was revealed as guidance for mankind and clear proofs of guidance and criterion."
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:185)
Ramadan is the month of the Quran. It is the best time to dedicate oneself to recitation and reflection on the meaning of its verses. Many Muslims set the goal of reading the entire Quran at least once. However, more important than quantity is understanding and implementing its teachings.
Here are some ways to intentionally incorporate the Quran into Ramadan:
- Set a daily reading time, even if it's just a few pages.
- Study Tafsir (explanation) to better understand Allah's message.
- Read with family to introduce children and relatives to the Quran.
4. Harnessing the Power of Supplications (Du'a)
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
"Three supplications are not rejected: the du'a of a fasting person, the du'a of a just ruler, and the du'a of an oppressed person."
(Tirmidhi, Hadith No. 3598)
During Ramadan, the gates of mercy are opened wide, and the chances of supplications being answered are especially high. A simple but effective tip is to create a list of personal du'as – for yourself, your family, the entire Ummah, and for the hereafter.
5. Community and Good Deeds – Sharing Ramadan
Ramadan is not only a time of individual devotion but also an opportunity to strengthen the Ummah. Sharing iftar, supporting those in need, and promoting Islamic education are all means to multiply the blessings of this month.
Some recommended actions:
- Give charity (Sadaqah), especially in the last ten nights.
- Enable others to break their fast, whether by sharing a meal or donating iftar.
- Share knowledge by discussing Islamic topics with friends or family.
A Special Opportunity: Umrah in Ramadan
Many Muslims aspire to perform Umrah during Ramadan. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
"An Umrah in Ramadan is equal to a Hajj."
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 1782)
Those who have the opportunity to spend this special month in Mecca and Medina experience an atmosphere of devotion that is hard to describe. Umrah in this blessed month offers an opportunity for purification, closeness to Allah, and forgiveness of past deeds.
Even those who cannot travel should be aware that every believer can participate in the blessings of Ramadan through their prayers, their Quran recitation, and their good deeds.
Conclusion: Consciously Shaping Ramadan and Using it for the Hereafter
Ramadan is a unique opportunity in the year to turn to Allah with devotion. With the right intention, good time management, and focus on worship, every Muslim can make optimal use of this blessed month.
May Allah enable us all to spend this Ramadan with sincere devotion, accept our prayers, and count us among those whose fasting and deeds are rewarded by Him.
Use this time and make the best of every moment – for your life in this world and the hereafter.
