Getting Ready for a Successful Ramadan: Getting Your Act Together

 

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "When Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened." {Sahih al-Bukhari}

Imagine a sale at the mall that starts with amazing deals and offers loads of free stuff, and this sale is for a limited time; what will we do? Will we not run towards it and try to get whatever our carts can hold and more. Well, a much better sale is about to start in a couple of weeks, where we can earn Jannah, protect ourselves from hellfire, and get endless rewards. You guessed it: It's Ramadan, the month of infinite mercy.

So, Have you planned for Ramadan 2020?

This month is more than planning iftar parties, overstocking our pantries, eid preparations, and refraining from eating and drinking; instead, it is a time of training our soul and body physically, spiritually, psychologically, and socially.

Spiritual:

Spiritual cleansing begins with Taqwa (God-consciousness). It starts with the realization that we have made mistakes and that we wholeheartedly believe in the mercy of Allah. Taqwa is a vital quality of a believer. It is a state of vigilance and being mindful of Allah at all times.

"And whoever relies upon Allah - then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Allah has already set for everything a [decreed] extent." (Quran, 65:3)

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

I heard Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) saying regarding Ramadan, "Whoever prayed at night in it (the month of Ramadan) out of sincere Faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven."

Social:

Unnecessary use of social media, unnecessary phone calls, and texts, and non-productive gatherings pollute our daily lives. Ramadan is the time of the year to practice social cleansing. Our prime focus in Ramadan should be attaining Allah's pleasure, observing fasts, attaining Khushu' in Salah, and connecting to the Quran. Minimizing unnecessary social interactions will be beneficial and fruitful.

Psychological:

As the devils are chained, use this month to relieve fears, anxiety, and depression. Be consistent in your Duas and Ibaada'h, and leave your affairs to Allah. Avoid people and gatherings that cause harm to your psychological health. Use this blessed month to connect with your creator.

Physical:

"…...to fast is best for you, if you only knew." (Quran 2:184)

Fasting helps the body detox and normalizes hypertension and blood pressure. It has incredible healing effects on skin and muscles. Fasting helps lose weight and improves metabolism. These are a few health benefits that fasting offers, among many others.

Ramadan is a time to focus on Akhirah. May Allah make this month our source to enter Jannah. Ameen