Ramadan is a month of devotion, self-discipline, and generosity, offering countless opportunities to strengthen faith and character. From fasting and night prayers to Quran recitation and charity, every act of worship brings immense rewards. Engaging in dhikr, supplication, and acts of kindness fosters spiritual connection and community bonding.
The last ten nights, especially Laylatul Qadr, hold unparalleled blessings, making them crucial for seeking forgiveness and divine mercy. Ramadan also nurtures family ties through shared worship, Quran circles, and iftar gatherings. By embracing its essence, Muslims cultivate patience, gratitude, and righteousness, ensuring lasting spiritual benefits beyond the month itself.
Many Ramadan activities offer meaningful ways for adults to bond, learn, and celebrate Ramadan together as a family or community.
1. Fasting (الصيام)
Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam and is obligatory for every adult, capable Muslim. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever fasts Ramadan out of faith and hope for reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” Fasting is not just about abstaining from food and drink; it is also a training in self-discipline, patience, and empathy for those in need.
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, with the intention of worshiping Allah alone. Fasting teaches gratitude for the blessings we often take for granted and strengthens our connection with Allah. It also has numerous health benefits, such as detoxifying the body and promoting self-control.
2. Reading the Quran (قراءة القرآن)
Ramadan is the month of the Quran, as it was during this month that the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Reciting and reflecting on the Quran is highly encouraged, as it purifies the heart and brings us closer to Allah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The best among you are those who learn the Quran and teach it.”
Set a daily goal to read a portion of the Quran, whether it’s a few pages or an entire chapter. Try to understand its meanings and implement its teachings in your life. Ramadan is the perfect time to complete the entire Quran, as the rewards for reciting it are multiplied during this blessed month.
It is essential to dedicate daily time for reading the Quran with reflection, aiming to complete it at least once, if possible. Dividing the recitation throughout the day after prayers or during quiet moments can make it manageable. Additionally, listening to the Quran or joining recitation circles can enhance the spiritual experience.
3. Night Prayers (القيام)
Night prayers, or Qiyam, are a special act of worship during Ramadan, especially during the last ten nights. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever stands in prayer during Ramadan out of faith and hope for reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” These prayers are a way to seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.
Try to pray Taraweeh at the mosque or at home, and aim to stand in prayer during the last third of the night, when Allah descends to the lowest heaven and answers the supplications of His servants. This is also the time to seek Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Decree), which is better than a thousand months.
4. Charity (الصدقة)
Charity holds immense significance in Ramadan. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The best charity is that given in Ramadan.” Giving to those in need not only purifies our wealth but also strengthens our sense of community and compassion.
Whether it’s donating money, food, or clothing, every act of kindness counts. Organize or participate in charity drives, sponsor an orphan, or simply help a neighbor in need. Remember, even a smile is considered an act of charity in Islam.
The Prophet ﷺ was the most generous of people, and his generosity increased during Ramadan. Giving charity, whether by feeding the poor, supporting families in need, or contributing to communal iftar gatherings, is highly encouraged. Even small acts of kindness, such as offering dates and water to a fasting person, bring immense rewards and add blessings to one’s fast.
5. Feeding the Fasting (إفطار الصائمين)
Providing food for those who are fasting is a highly rewarding act. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever feeds a fasting person will have a reward like his, without diminishing the reward of the fasting person.” This act of kindness brings people together and spreads joy during Ramadan.
You can host iftar gatherings at your home, donate to community iftar programs, or simply share a meal with a neighbor or colleague. The act of feeding others fosters unity and reminds us of the blessings we often take for granted.
6. Supplication and Remembrance of Allah (كثرة الدعاء وذكر الله تعالى)
Ramadan is the ideal time to increase your supplications and remembrance of Allah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The supplication of a fasting person is not rejected.” Make dua during iftar, in the last third of the night, and during Fridays, as these are times when duas are most likely to be accepted.
Use this month to strengthen your connection with Allah by remembering Him throughout the day. Recite dhikr (remembrance phrases) such as SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, and Allahu Akbar, and ask Allah for forgiveness, guidance, and blessings.
Muslims should take advantage of this blessed opportunity to ask Allah for forgiveness, guidance, and mercy for themselves, their loved ones, and the entire Muslim ummah. Constant remembrance of Allah and seeking forgiveness brings blessings and opens doors to goodness.
7. Umrah (العمرة)
Performing Umrah during Ramadan is highly rewarding. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Umrah in Ramadan is equivalent to Hajj.” If you have the means, consider traveling to Makkah to perform Umrah and experience the spiritual atmosphere of the holy city during this blessed month.
Even if you cannot perform Umrah, you can still earn rewards by increasing your acts of worship at home. The key is to seek Allah’s pleasure and make the most of this sacred time.
8. I’tikaf (الاعتكاف)
I’tikaf is a spiritual retreat in the mosque during the last ten days of Ramadan. It is a time to disconnect from worldly distractions and focus entirely on worship, Quran recitation, and supplication. The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to observe I’tikaf every Ramadan.
During I’tikaf, strive to seek Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Decree, which is better than a thousand months. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever stands in prayer on Laylatul Qadr out of faith and hope for reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.”
9- Strengthening Family Bonds and Forgiving Others
Ramadan is the month of mercy and forgiveness, making it the perfect time to reconcile with estranged family members, visit relatives, and share gifts. Letting go of grudges and forgiving those who have wronged us is a noble act that brings peace to the heart. The Prophet ﷺ said: “It is not lawful for a Muslim to boycott his brother for more than three nights.” Ramadan should be a time for love and renewed relationships.
10- Practicing Self-Control and Good Manners
Fasting is not just about abstaining from food and drink; it is also about controlling one’s anger, avoiding gossip, and refraining from harmful speech. The Prophet ﷺ taught: “When one of you is fasting, he should avoid inappropriate behavior and arguments. If someone insults him, let him say, ‘I am fasting.’” Ramadan is a great opportunity to cultivate patience, kindness, and good character.
11- Seizing the Last Ten Nights and Laylatul Qadr
The last ten nights of Ramadan are the most blessed, especially as they include Laylatul Qadr, a night that is better than a thousand months. Muslims are encouraged to increase their worship during this time through prayer, Quran recitation, and supplication. Those who can perform I’tikaf in the mosque should do so, and those who cannot should still dedicate extra time for worship at home, hoping to earn the blessings of this night.
12- Preparing for Eid with Gratitude and Generosity
As Ramadan comes to an end, it is important to prepare for Eid in a meaningful way by showing gratitude for the blessings of the month. This includes paying Zakat al-Fitr, a charity given before the Eid prayer to help the less fortunate celebrate joyfully. Celebrating Eid with a pure heart, free from grudges, and filled with kindness makes the occasion truly special.
Ramadan is a unique and precious time that only comes once a year. By making the most of it through worship, charity, and self-improvement, one can reap countless rewards and blessings, both in this life and the Hereafter.
13- Quran Reading Circle:
One of the most beneficial and spiritually uplifting activities during Ramadan is organizing a Quran reading circle with family or the community. These gatherings provide an excellent opportunity to read and reflect on the words of Allah together, deepening one’s connection with the Quran. Whether held daily or weekly, these circles encourage consistency in recitation, helping participants develop a habit of engaging with the Quran regularly.
For younger children, listening attentively to recitation enhances their familiarity with the Arabic language and pronunciation. Encouraging them to participate by reading aloud verses they know builds their confidence and strengthens their Quranic fluency. Parents and elders can take turns explaining the meanings of verses in a simple and engaging way, making the experience both educational and spiritual.
To maximize the benefits of these sessions, it is highly recommended to enroll children in a Tajweed course, such as the Tajweed course for kids at Shaykhi Academy. Enrolling your kid in a Tajweed course; such as the Tajweed course for kids at Shaykhi Academy, will help them benefit more and more from these sessions.
14- Family Dhikr Sessions:
Set aside time daily for family dhikr (remembrance of Allah), where everyone gathers to recite tasbih (glorifications), adhkar (remembrances), and short duas (supplications). Encourage kids to participate by repeating after adults or leading simple prayers, helping them develop a habit of daily remembrance. This practice fosters a peaceful atmosphere and strengthens family bonds while instilling mindfulness and gratitude.
To keep it engaging, let children take turns leading, use prayer beads or digital counters, and introduce illustrated dhikr charts. These sessions not only bring spiritual rewards but also create cherished family moments and lifelong habits of seeking Allah’s mercy.
