“Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down the Quran, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So, every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting.” Quran (2:185)
The significance of Ramadan should not be undermined, as it is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar and an opportunity for Muslims worldwide to show devotion to their religious values. It is a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and pleasing Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى).
Ramadan is not only the month when we perform our obligatory fasts, but it also commemorates the revelation of the Quran to our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). In this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs. It is a way to purify our souls and strengthen our faith as believers.
In Ramadan, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) opens the gates of heaven and closes the gates of hell, inviting believers to seek His mercy and forgiveness. It is the perfect time to increase our love for religion by reciting Quran, performing Nawafil prayers, and giving charity.
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) has put great emphasis on the importance of Ramadan. He said,
“Whoever stands in prayer during the nights of Ramadan with faith and seeking his reward from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) will have his past sins forgiven” (Sahih Bukhari).
The Prophet Muhammad sought the month of Ramadan. Since he is the ultimate example of righteousness and piety, we Muslims should emulate his sunnahs in every way of our life, especially during Ramadan.
Ramadan is a month of renewal, reflection, and growth, and following the sunnah is an essential part of this transformative experience. It is a time to purify the soul, seek forgiveness, and strive towards greater spiritual heights.
By following our Prophet’s sunnahs during Ramadan, we can deepen our faith, increase our devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى), and strengthen our relationship with our Creator. Let’s have a look at some of the essential sunnahs of Ramadan:
1. Sunnahs of Ramadan – Fasting
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and is considered an essential act of worship. Along with that, it is also a sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), so if you complete this fardh ibadat by following the sunnahs that our beloved Prophet (ﷺ) practiced in Ramadan, it will be double the ajar.
In a Hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said,
“Whoever observes fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith and hoping to attain Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى)’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari)
The benefits of following the sunnah of fasting during Ramadan are both spiritual and physical. Spiritually, fasting is a way to draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) and to increase one’s devotion and piety.
It is a time for reflection, introspection, and seeking forgiveness. It is also a way to develop self-discipline and self-control, which can be applied to all areas of life.
Physically, fasting has been shown to have several health benefits. It gives the digestive system a break, allowing it to rest and rejuvenate. Also, fasting has been shown to improve brain function and promote longevity. Fasting can also lead to weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity.
It is an obligatory act of worship with exemptions for a few believers. Those exempt from fasting include children who have not reached puberty, the elderly, the sick, and women who are menstruating, pregnant, or nursing.
There are several other rules for fasting during Ramadan. In addition to abstaining from food and drink, Muslims are also expected to refrain from smoking, sexual activity, and other physical needs during fasting hours.
Certain actions can break the fast, such as eating or drinking intentionally, vomiting, or engaging in sexual activity. If a person breaks the fast intentionally, they are required to make up the missed days at a later time.
The rules of fasting should be observed with sincerity and devotion, and those exempt from fasting should find other ways to engage in worship and devotion during this holy month.
2. Sunnahs of Ramadan – Offering Taraweeh Prayers
Taraweeh is a special prayer performed during Ramadan after the Isha prayer. It is an integral part of the Ramadan rituals and has a significant history in Islamic tradition. It is a sunnah that is widely practiced by the Muslim community.
The practice of Taraweeh began during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). He would lead the companions in prayer during Ramadan; however, after some time, he disbanded the congregational prayer and offered Taraweeh individually for fear that people would consider it mandatory to offer Taraweeh in the congregation.
Umer (رضي الله عنهم), the second caliph of Islam, restarted the tradition of offering Taraweeh in prayers in congregations. So, when you offer Taraweeh during Ramadan, whether at home or at the mosque, remember that you’re following the sunnah of رسول الله.
“Taraweeh” is derived from the Arabic word “tarweeha,” which means to rest and take a break because the prayer consists of several sets of two rak’ahs, with a break between each set. Usually, the Imam recites the Quran during Taraweeh prayers; in each rak’ahh a portion of the Quran is recited, until the whole Quran ends by the time Ramadan ends.
The significance of Taraweeh prayers in Ramadan is that they allow us to increase our worship and devotion during this holy month. Since these prayers are performed in the congregation, it creates a sense of community and connection among the believers. It is a time for reflection, seeking forgiveness, and renewing one’s faith.
Following the sunnah of Taraweeh prayers has many spiritual benefits. It is a way to draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) and to increase one’s piety and devotion. It is also a way to develop self-discipline and self-control, requiring committing to a daily prayer routine.
The rules of Taraweeh prayers are fairly simple. The prayers consist of several sets of two rak’ahs, with a break in between each set. The prayers are performed after the Isha prayer and can last 8 to 20 rak’ahs, depending on the fiqh you follow.
The Imam leads the prayer, and the congregation follows his lead. Taraweeh prayers are an important part of the Ramadan rituals and have a significant history in Islamic tradition. It is a sunnah, as it is mentioned in Sahih Bukhari that (the wife of the Prophet) Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى)’s Messenger (ﷺ) used to pray (at night) in Ramadan.
3. Sunnah of Ramadans – Reciting the Quran
The Quran is the holy book of Islam and contains the words of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى). It is a source of guidance and wisdom for Muslims and is life’s ultimate code of conduct. Reciting the Quran during Ramadan is an essential practice for Muslims, and it is a sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
There are several reasons why reciting Quran in this holy month is important; the Quran was revealed during this month, making it a special time to connect with the book of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى). Secondly, reciting the Quran is a way to increase one’s knowledge and understanding of Islam. It is also a way to seek forgiveness and increase spirituality by getting closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى).
“This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى).” (Quran 2:2)
This ayah highlights how the Quran is a source of guidance and wisdom for us, and reciting it is a way to seek forgiveness, gain knowledge, and increase one’s spirituality. Following the sunnah of reciting the Quran during Ramadan has many benefits. First, it allows Muslims to connect with the words of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) and gain a deeper understanding of Islam. It also helps to increase one’s spirituality and to draw closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى).
If you wish to incorporate Quran recitation into daily routines during Ramadan, then Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) would be very pleased. Here are some tips for doing so:
- Set a goal: Set a specific goal for the amount of Quran you want to recite during Ramadan. It can be several pages or Surahs each day or week. The best goal would be to complete the Quran during Ramadan.
- Make a schedule: Set a specific time each day for Quran recitation and stick to it. It can be after Fajr, during the day, or after Iftar. It has additional benefits for self-development, like discipline and regularity.
- Listen to recitations: Listen to recitations of the Quran to connect with the book of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى), even if you don’t have time to recite it yourself. You can listen to recitations while driving, cooking, or doing other daily tasks. There are several recitations of each Surah available on Islamic applications or YouTube. You can also listen to it with translation to better understand the Quranic verses.
- Break it up: Instead of reciting the entire Quran in one sitting, break it up into smaller portions. Recite a few pages at a time or a specific Surah (chapter) each day.
- Memorize verses: Memorizing verses of the Quran is another way to connect with the book of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) and to increase one’s knowledge and spirituality. Choose a few verses each day to memorize and recite them throughout the day. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, ‘The best of you are those who learn the Quran and teach it.’ (Sahih Bukhari)
- Recite with family: Recite Quran with family members after Iftar or before bedtime. It is a great way to connect with family members and increase spirituality.
- Attend Taraweeh prayers: Attend Taraweeh prayers at the mosque, if possible. It is an excellent way to connect with other Muslims and recite the Quran in the congregation.
4. Sunnahs of Ramadan – Giving Charity
Giving charity, also known as Zakat in Islam, is one of the five pillars of Islam. Allah requires Muslims to give one portion of their wealth to those who don’t have as much as they do to purify their wealth. While Muslims can give Zakat any time of the year, it is much preferable during Ramadan.
The significance of giving charity during Ramadan lies in its ability to purify one’s wealth, strengthen social bonds, and earn immense rewards from Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى). The other types of charities, like Sadqah and Waqf, are also highly appreciated in the eyes of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى).
The Prophet (ﷺ) was asked: “Which charity is best?” He (ﷺ) said: “Charity in Ramadan.” (Tirmidhi)
This hadith emphasizes the significance of giving to charity during Ramadan. It encourages Muslims to increase their charitable acts during this blessed month and highlights the increased reward for such acts during Ramadan.
By giving to those in need, Muslims emulate the generosity and compassion of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and fulfill their obligation to help those who are less fortunate. One of the primary benefits of following the sunnah of giving to charity is its spiritual benefit. It brings a sense of satisfaction and contentment that cannot be found in material possessions.
In economic terms, the charity helps create a more just and equitable society by assisting those in need and reducing poverty. By giving to charity, individuals also strengthen social bonds by demonstrating care and concern for others and creating a sense of solidarity within the community. Following the sunnah of giving charity can purify our wealth, strengthen social bonds, and fulfill our obligation to help the less fortunate.
There are certain guidelines that Muslims should follow while giving charity. The amount of Zakat given is usually 2.5% of one’s total wealth. However, there are specific rules regarding the amount and eligibility of Zakat depending on the type of wealth.
The Quran states that Zakat should be given to the poor, needy, and struggling financially. Zakat can also be given to support Islamic causes, such as mosques’ construction or the Quran’s propagation. By adhering to the rules of giving to charity, we can ensure that our charitable acts are done responsibly and effectively and bring the maximum benefit to those in need.
5. Sunnahs of Ramadan – Seeking Laylatul Qadr
Laylatul Qadr, also known as the Night of Power or Night of Decree, is one of the Islamic calendar’s most significant and blessed nights. It falls on one of the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan, and it is believed to be the night on which the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
“Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.” Surah Al-Qadr (97:1-5)
Following the sunnah of seeking Laylatul Qadr involves dedicating the last ten nights of Ramadan to extra worship and supplication. We should spend these nights performing prayer, recitation of the Quran, and other acts of worship.
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) himself would devote these nights to worship and would seek Laylatul Qadr in particular. To seek Laylatul Qadr, keep an eye out for the signs of this blessed night, which include a peaceful and serene atmosphere, a sense of tranquility and calm, and the feeling of being surrounded by angels.
The significance of Laylatul Qadr lies in the immense spiritual blessings and rewards that it offers to those who seek it. It is said that the worship and good deeds performed on this night are worth more than a thousand months of worship and that those who observe this night with faith and sincerity will have their sins forgiven and their prayers answered. It is also an opportunity to earn immense rewards and blessings and to have one’s prayers answered.
Conclusion for The Essential Sunnahs of Ramadan [UPDATED 2023]
In conclusion, fasting during Ramadan is one of Islam’s five pillars, an essential aspect of this holy month. In addition, it is the sunnah of our Prophet (ﷺ), and completing fasts with this intention is sure to multiply the reward by Allah.
Other sunnahs of Ramadan include the Taraweeh prayer, after Isha prayers that offer an opportunity to strengthen one’s faith and connect with the Muslim community. Reciting the Quran is also a key sunnah of Ramadan. It offers immense spiritual benefits along with helping us to strive to increase our knowledge and understanding of the holy book.
Giving to charity is another essential sunnah during Ramadan, and it is a reminder of the importance of social responsibility and community welfare. And by following the sunnah of seeking Laylatul Qadr, Muslims can deepen their faith and spirituality and experience the transformative power of Ramadan.
FAQs
What are the sunnahs of Ramadan?
The sunnahs of Ramadan include fasting, performing Taraweeh prayers, reciting the Quran, giving to charity, and seeking Laylatul Qadr.
How do I prepare for Ramadan?
To prepare for Ramadan, we can start by increasing our worship, such as performing extra prayers and reciting the Quran. It is also important to make any necessary adjustments to one’s daily routine, such as adjusting meal times in the eagerness to fast during the day.
Additionally, it can be helpful to set specific goals and intentions for the month of Ramadan, such as reciting the whole Quran and seeking forgiveness and repentance in the weeks leading up to the holy month.
What are the benefits of following the sunnahs of Ramadan?
Following the sunnahs of Ramadan offers numerous spiritual benefits, including increased faith, the forgiveness of sins, and a sense of community connection. It also offers physical benefits, such as improved health and self-discipline. Each reward is increased seventy times this month, hence the reward of following the sunnahs.
How can I incorporate Quran recitation into my daily routine during Ramadan?
To incorporate Quran recitation into daily routines during Ramadan, we can try waking up earlier to recite the Quran before beginning the day or setting aside a specific time to recite. It can also be helpful to break up recitation into manageable portions and to set achievable goals for the pages of the Quran to be recited each day.
What is Laylatul Qadr, and how can I seek it?
Laylatul Qadr is a night of great spiritual significance in the last ten days of Ramadan. It is important to make sincere dua and seek forgiveness during this time. To seek Laylatul Qadr, one can engage in acts of worship such as reciting the Quran and performing extra prayers, particularly during the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan.
