Most of us approach Ramadan much like our previous Ramadans. We slip into similar habits and routines, and our ibadah from one Ramadan to the next is predictable. We have the same tarawih schedules, read similar quantities of Qur’an or perform similar types of ibadah and post Ramadan we are back to square one...
Let's change that and make this the BEST Ramadan Ever! |
1. Treat this Ramadan like it is your last!
This type of mindset creates urgency and with urgency comes focus and determination. Your priorities will shift knowing that this is your final opportunity to take advantage of this blessed month. The quality of your ibadah will surely increase if you have this understanding. Take your ibadah to the next level.
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2. Set goals for Ramadan
It was the practice of the Muslims in the early generations of Islam to think and reflect over what they wanted to achieve – ahead of Ramadan. And during the month itself, they would track their progress along the way and make tweaks to their lifestyle if they fell behind.
Take the time now to set some targets in terms of what you want to achieve during this month. And from these goals, come up with a small plan to describe how you plan on fulfilling them.
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3. Warm-up for Ramadan
We should approach Ramadan similar to how athleets approach their games. Before their games, they will come early and start warming up and start running various drills. They are warmedup, their muscles are relaxed and they’re ready to go.
it in the same manner. During the month of Sha’ban, increase in your ibadah. Perform some nafl fasts, increase in your recitation of the Qu’ran, give some extra sadaqah and improve your overall ibadah. When ramadan comes, you will already be warmed up and you will hit the ground running.
Try to ease into Ramadan on an upward slope and maintain your consistency throughout.
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4. Remove distractions
Distractions consume our time and take us away from the remembrance of Allah. And during the month of Ramadan our time is at a premium. Our schedules are altered with early morning suhoor, the occasional nap during the day and late night prayers. If we allow our everyday distractions to continue throughout this month, we shortchange ourselves from the immense blessings that are there for the taking.
Try to create an atmosphere in your home that will encourage you to achieve your goals. This can include cutting out television, movies and video games. Perhaps you alter your schedule at home so that the family has time to read Qur’an together or praying tarawih together at your local masjid.
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5. Feed the needy
For those in the West, a lot of focus is given to the long summer hours this year that we have to endure. To make up for the duration, some Muslims take it upon themselves to load up at suhoor and iftar times. This type of excessive eating goes against the spirit of Ramadan. The purpose of our fasting is not mere abstinence from food and drink. Allah has prescribed fasting as a means of attaining taqwa.
Part of attaining taqwa is being mindful of our consumption as well as providing for those who are less fortunate. Feeding needing people is a noble act and follows in the spirit of Ramadan. Rasullulah ṣallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam was known for his generosity, and he was especially generous during the month of Ramadan.
So let’s be more conscious of those who are needy and strive to feed them from the abundance we have.
This article was taken from the website of Darul Arqam Studios (NAK Collections) - 2018
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