Things Muslims Must Do Weeks To RAMADAN

Ramadan is a time of immense spiritual, mental, and physical discipline. The sacred month brings countless blessings, but to fully benefit from it, adequate preparation is essential. The Qur'an and Sunnah offer valuable guidance on how to enter Ramadan in the best possible state.

By taking small yet impactful steps in the weeks leading up to Ramadan, Muslims can ensure a smooth transition into the holy month. Here are key preparations to help maximize this spiritually enriching period:

(1) RENEW INTENTIONS: PURIFY YOUR HEART AND STRENGTHEN YOUR CONNECTION WITH ALLAH

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: "Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will get what they intended." (Bukhari & Muslim).

As Ramadan approaches, it's crucial to pause and reflect. Why do we fast? Is it just a routine, or do we truly seek Allah's pleasure? Now is the time to renew our intentions (niyyah), ensuring that our fasting, prayers, and acts of worship are purely for Allah's sake.

To start with, seek forgiveness - Let go of grudges and make amends with others. Increase supplications - Ask Allah for guidance, strength, and sincerity.

Practice istighfar (seeking forgiveness) - The more we purify our hearts, the more spiritually rewarding our Ramadan will be.

(2) GRADUALLY ADJUST HABITS: EASE INTO THE FASTING ROUTINE

Fasting from dawn to sunset can be challenging if we don't prepare our bodies in advance. Instead of waiting until the first day of Ramadan to adjust, why not start now?

To achieve a smooth transition into a proper fasting mood, Muslims must consider cutting down on caffeine and sugar intake. This helps prevent withdrawal headaches.

Regulate sleep patterns - Start waking up earlier for suhoor and sleeping earlier to prepare for taraweeh.

Practice voluntary fasts - The Prophet (PBUH) encouraged fasting on Mondays and Thursdays (Tirmidhi, 745). This not only earns reward but also conditions the body for Ramadan.

(3) INCREASE WORSHIP: DEEPEN YOUR CONNECTION WITH ALLAH

Allah reminds us that "Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur'an, and indeed, we will be its guardian." (Qur'an 15:9).

Ramadan is the month of the Qur'an, and preparing in advance makes spiritual engagement easier.

PRACTICAL STEPS TO INCREASE WORSHIP:

Start reading the Qur'an daily - Even if it's just a few verses, build a habit before Ramadan. Perform extra prayers - Add Qiyam-ul-Layl (night prayers) to your routine to prepare for Taraweeh. Engage in dhikr - The Prophet (PBUH) said, "The most beloved words to Allah are: Subhan Allah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaha illa Allah, and Allahu Akbar." (Muslim, 2137).

Making these small efforts now will ensure that when Ramadan begins, your heart is already aligned with worship.

(4) SET GOALS: PLAN FOR WORSHIP, CHARITY, AND PERSONAL GROWTH

A successful Ramadan doesn't happen by accident-it requires planning. Without clear goals, we risk letting the days slip by without maximizing our time.

Here's how to make the most of Ramadan: Create a Ramadan schedule - Allocate time for Qur'an recitation, prayers, and charity. Identify areas for self-improvement - Whether it's controlling anger, avoiding gossip, or being more patient, start working on it now. Plan for community service - Whether it's feeding the poor or volunteering at a mosque, charity should be a key part of your Ramadan goals.

(5) ORGANIZE FINANCES: PREPARE ZAKAT AND SADAQAH IN ADVANCE

Allah commands: "Establish prayer and give zakah." (Qur'an 2:110)

Ramadan is a time of generosity, and giving in charity brings multiplied rewards. What you can do now:

Calculate and set aside your zakat - Ensure it reaches those in need during Ramadan. Prepare sadaqah funds - Have a budget for daily or weekly giving, whether for food, orphanages, or masjid maintenance.

Give in secret - The Prophet (úý) said: "The best charity is that given in secret." (Bukhari, 1425)

(6) DECLUTTER YOUR SPACE: CREATE A PEACEFUL ENVIRONMENT FOR WORSHIP

The Prophet (úý) said: "Purity is half of faith." (Muslim, 223)

A cluttered home often leads to a cluttered mind. Ramadan is a time for spiritual focus, so why not start fresh?

Clean and organize your home - Create a peaceful space for worship. Set up a dedicated prayer area - Keep a Qur'an, prayer mat, and Islamic books in a quiet corner. Minimize distractions - Reduce screen time and unnecessary activities that take away from your Ramadan experience.

The more serene your environment, the easier it will be to concentrate on worship.

(7) STOCK UP SMARTLY: SHOP EARLY AND AVOID WASTAGE

The Prophet (PBUH) said: "The son of Adam fills no vessel worse than his stomach." (Tirmidhi, 2380).

Last-minute shopping can be overwhelming, and excessive buying often leads to food wastage. Instead, plan wisely:

Make a meal plan - Stick to simple, nutritious foods following the Sunnah.

Shop for essentials early - Avoid the rush and focus on worship instead. Practice moderation - Break your fast with dates and water, just as the Prophet (PBUH) did (Abu Dawood, 2355).

A mindful approach to food and consumption ensures that Ramadan remains a time of reflection, not indulgence.

Start Today for a Fulfilling Ramadan. Don't wait until the first day of Ramadan to start preparing-begin now! Small changes today will lead to a spiritually fulfilling and stress-free Ramadan.

May Allah grant us all the ability to make the most of this blessed month. Ameen!