Ramadan is a special month in Islam, filled with immense blessings, mercy, and opportunities for spiritual growth. It is a time when Muslims focus on self-reflection, self-discipline, and deepening their connection with Allah. The practices and experiences during this month are designed to purify the soul, strengthen faith, and cultivate gratitude, patience, and empathy for others.

The Significance of Ramadan

Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims. It’s the month in which the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel). Allah says in the Qur’an:

“The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:185)

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the foundational acts of worship and practice for every Muslim.

When does Ramadan start?

Ramadan starts based on the lunar Islamic calendar, so its exact date changes each year. It begins with the sighting of the new moon of the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, which is Ramadan.

Since the Islamic calendar is around 10-12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, Ramadan moves earlier each year by about 10-12 days. The exact date varies by location because the start of Ramadan depends on the local moon sighting.

To determine when Ramadan starts, it’s common to follow announcements made by local Islamic authorities or mosques based on the moon sighting in your area. Generally, you can expect Ramadan to begin around the evening of the sighting of the new moon, which marks the first day of fasting.

Video Resources

Playlists on Ramadan:

Fasting (Sawm): A Spiritual Discipline

Fasting, or sawm, is the most well-known and central act of worship during Ramadan. It involves abstaining from eating, drinking, and other physical needs (such as smoking, intimacy, and bad behavior) from dawn until sunset. This fast is not only about physical restraint but also about spiritual discipline. It’s a time to cleanse the soul, grow closer to Allah, and build patience and empathy.

The Purpose of Fasting

Fasting is an act of obedience to Allah and a way to train oneself to control desires. It is also a means of developing empathy for the less fortunate, as hunger reminds us of the struggles many people face daily.

During this month, Muslims are encouraged to focus on purifying their hearts, avoiding negative emotions like anger and frustration, and increasing acts of kindness, patience, and compassion.

Exceptions to Fasting

There are exemptions for those who are unable to fast, such as:

• Children who haven’t reached puberty.
• The elderly or anyone who is too ill to fast.
• Pregnant or nursing women who may be concerned about their health or the health of their baby.
• Mensurating women (though these fasts should be made up for later)
• Travelers who are on long journeys. In these cases, individuals can make up the fasts later or, if unable to do so, they can feed the poor as compensation (called fidya).

While the spiritual benefits are abundant, that’s not the only aspect of your life that fasting in Ramadan can help you with. Fasting during Ramadan has been linked to several scientifically proven benefits for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Here are some key findings:

Physical Health Benefits

1. Improved Metabolism and Insulin Sensitivity
   • Fasting can improve insulin sensitivity, helping regulate blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
   • It promotes the use of stored fat for energy, aiding weight management.
2. Enhanced Brain Function
   • Fasting triggers the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports brain health and cognitive functions.
   • It may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
3. Detoxification and Cellular Repair
   • During fasting, the body undergoes autophagy, a process where it removes damaged cells and generates new, healthier ones.
   • This aids in detoxification and cellular rejuvenation. (This means fasting helps the body clean itself by removing harmful waste and replacing old, damaged cells with new, healthy ones. It’s like giving your body a reset to work better and feel healthier.)
4. Lowered Inflammation
   • Studies suggest fasting reduces markers of inflammation, which is linked to chronic diseases like arthritis, heart disease, and certain cancers.
5. Heart Health
   • Fasting has been associated with lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels, and improved cardiovascular health.
6. Gut Health
   • Fasting gives the digestive system a break, promoting a healthier gut microbiome and improving overall digestion.

Mental and Emotional Benefits

1. Improved Focus and Mental Clarity
   • The absence of constant eating and digestion can enhance mental clarity and focus.
   • Fasting may reduce stress hormone levels, contributing to mental calmness.
2. Boosted Mood and Emotional Resilience
   • The discipline of fasting and increased spirituality during Ramadan can boost emotional resilience.
   • Many report feeling more connected, positive, and grounded during the month.
3. Increased Self-Control
   • Fasting trains self-discipline, which can improve other areas of life such as work habits, relationships, and emotional regulation.

Scientific Studies Supporting These Benefits

• A study in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism highlights that fasting improves cholesterol levels and reduces triglycerides.
• Research published in Cell Metabolism supports fasting’s role in reducing inflammation and promoting cellular repair.w
• Findings in Frontiers in Nutrition discuss fasting’s positive effects on mental health and emotional well-being.

Practical advice for your first Ramadan

During Ramadan, your daily schedule centers on two main meals: Suhoor and Iftar. These meals mark the beginning and end of your daily fast, and knowing how to properly time and observe them is essential for successful fasting.

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Suhoor is eaten just before the break of dawn, marking the start of your fast. Suhoor must be finished before the Fajr (dawn) prayer begins.

Iftar is the meal you eat to break your fast at sunset. Iftar should be eaten as soon as the Maghrib (sunset) prayer time begins.

The exact time will vary depending on where you live. Make sure to look up your local Fajr and Maghrib prayer times. Alternatively, you can check with the local muslim community centers (mosques etc.) as many times they will distribute calendars at the beginning or Ramadan with the exact timings listed out for the whole month.

Starting Your Fast (Suhoor)

Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal that gives you energy for the day ahead. It’s highly encouraged and a time of blessing. Make sure to wake up 1 hour-30 minutes before Fajr prayer begins so you have enough time to properly nourish yourself. You have to finish eating and make the dua for starting your fast BEFORE the time for Fajr prayer begins.

Best Foods for Suhoor:

1. Complex Carbohydrates
   • Whole-grain bread, oats, brown rice, or quinoa provide slow-releasing energy.
2. Proteins
   • Eggs, yogurt, cheese, or beans help you stay full longer.
3. Healthy Fats
   • Avocados, nuts, or a drizzle of olive oil are great for sustained energy.
4. Hydrating Foods
   • Watermelon, cucumbers, or oranges add hydration.

Tips to Curb Thirst:

• Drink plenty of water (2–3 glasses).
• Avoid caffeine (tea, coffee) as it can dehydrate you.
• Limit salty or spicy foods; they increase thirst.

Tips for Suhoor:

• Eat Slowly and Wisely: Try not to overeat. Suhoor should be a balanced meal, providing slow-releasing energy.
• Try and plan your meal the night before, or consider meal prepping to help you save time and make it easier for you during Suhoor. (There are many people on social media: Youtube, Instagram, Tiktok etc., that will show you great nourishing recipes that you can try for Suhoor during Ramadan, so if you’re struggling to meal prep, try that out!)

Dua for Starting Your Fast:

After you are finished eating and drinking, say this dua to begin your fast. After you recite this dua, you’re officially in a state of fasting. It is important to recite it before Fajr time begins.

“Wa bi sawmi ghadin nawaytu min shahri Ramadan.”

(I intend to fast tomorrow in the month of Ramadan.)

Breaking Your Fast (Iftar)

What is Iftar?

Iftar is the meal to break your fast at sunset. It begins with a dua and often starts with dates and water, following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). You should be prepared to break your fast as soon as Maghrib prayer begins, so make sure you have a meal prepared in advance or at least something to break your fast with.

Dua for Breaking Your Fast:

“Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika amantu wa ‘alayka tawakkaltu wa ‘ala rizq-ika-aftartu.”

(O Allah, I fasted for You, I believe in You, I trust in You, and I break my fast with Your provision.)

Best Foods for Iftar:

1. Start with Dates and Water
   • Dates provide quick energy, and water rehydrates your body. Traditionally, you break your fast with dates and water, following the Sunnah (tradition) of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
2. Soup or Smoothie
   • Light and hydrating options prepare your stomach for the main meal.
3. Balanced Meal
   • Include lean proteins (chicken, fish), complex carbs (rice, whole grains), and vegetables.
4. Limit Sugary or Fried Foods
   • These can make you feel bloated or sluggish.

Hydration Tips:

• Drink water consistently between Iftar and Suhoor.
• Herbal teas or coconut water are excellent for rehydration.

Tips for Iftar:

• Start Light: Begin by eating dates and drinking water, as this helps rehydrate your body and restore energy quickly.
• Eat in Moderation: It’s easy to overeat after a long day of fasting, but eating too much too quickly can lead to discomfort. Instead, take your time and enjoy your food in moderation.
• Include a Balanced Meal: After breaking your fast with dates and water, have a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. Avoid fried or heavy foods that could make you feel sluggish.

Managing Hunger and Thirst Between Suhoor and Iftar

The hours between Suhoor and Iftar can feel long, especially when you’re new to fasting. Here are some tips to manage your hunger and thirst:

1. Stay Busy with Worship: Use this time to pray, recite the Qur’an, or engage in dhikr (remembrance of Allah). The more you focus on your spiritual practices, the less you’ll feel distracted by hunger or thirst.
2. Avoid Overexertion: Try to avoid heavy physical activity that might make you more thirsty. Rest when possible, especially in the afternoon.
3. Remember the Reward: Keep in mind that the hunger and thirst you’re experiencing are opportunities for spiritual growth and closeness to Allah.
4. Practice Gratitude: Don’t forget one of the main lessons of Ramadan – gratitude. You are lucky enough to be sure of the fresh clean water and food you will get to eat during Iftar, but there are many people in the world who don’t have that kind of certainty about where their next meal will come from. Find patience and strength through your gratitude.

Challenges during Ramadan

It’s important to note that during Ramadan, the timing of your daily activities may shift. At times it will be very difficult, especially since most of us are not used to waking up so early. The world also won’t stop for you. You’ll still have your daily obligations and responsibilities to fulfil, like work and school, and at times it will get very tiring, especially when your body is not used to it.

Firstly, remind yourself that you can do this. Just because it is hard, doesn’t mean it’s not possible. The first week will be the hardest, just like the first Ramadan will be the hardest. But just like everything else you do in life, it’s always hardest in the beginning. So find comfort in knowing that it gets easier, and that there are millions and millions of Muslims who are going through the same thing as you, at the same time. Find solidarity and look towards the bright side.

Secondly, remind yourself of the people in the world who endure this everyday, not as a spiritual practice, but as reality. You are lucky to have the certainty of knowing when and what your next meal will be, but not everyone is.

Lastly, know that Allah is aware of how hard it is for you. Even when no one else knows, Allah does. and He, your creator, is proud of you for your efforts. He knows you’re doing this for Him and He will surely reward you immensely for your efforts.

Hadiths to motivate you

Here are some Hadiths that highlight the reward and significance of Ramadan, especially how much Allah loves the fasting person and how blessed the month of Ramadan is. Use these to remind yourself of why you’re doing it when it gets challenging.

Fasting is not only a means of drawing closer to Allah but also serves as a protective shield from harmful desires and the punishment of Hell. The reward for fasting includes protection from evil and a closer relationship with Allah.

Sahih al-Bukhari 1894: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “Fasting is a shield, so when one of you is fasting, he should not indulge in obscene speech or in fighting. If someone fights or insults him, let him say, ‘I am fasting.’”

Sahih al-Bukhari 5927: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “Allah said, ‘Every deed of the son of Adam is for him except fasting. It is for Me, and I will reward it.'”

This Hadith emphasises the unique reward for fasting. It is an act of worship performed purely for the sake of Allah, and He has promised to reward it in ways that are beyond human comprehension.

Sahih al-Bukhari 5927: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “By Him in Whose Hand my soul is, the breath of the one who fasts is more fragrant to Allah than the scent of musk.”

This Hadith emphasises that even though the breath of a fasting person may have an unpleasant odor to others, Allah loves it and finds it more fragrant than the most pleasant scent of musk. This serves as a reminder that fasting is an act of worship for the sake of Allah, and the sincerity of the fast, even in small and overlooked aspects like breath, is appreciated and rewarded by Him.

Sahih al-Bukhari 1894: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “When a servant of Allah fasts, Allah says: ‘My servant has left his food, drink, and desires for My sake. So I will forgive him.'”

This Hadith underscores how fasting is done solely for Allah’s pleasure. Allah sees the sacrifices made by the fasting person and promises to forgive them as a reward for their devotion.

Taraweeh Prayers: A Special Night Prayer

In addition to the five daily prayers, Taraweeh is a special form of prayer during the nights of Ramadan, performed after the Isha (night) prayer. These prayers involve reciting long portions of the Qur’an, making it a time for deep reflection, worship, and seeking closeness to Allah. While Taraweeh is not obligatory, it is highly recommended and provides immense rewards for those who engage in it with sincerity.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Whoever stands in prayer during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward from Allah, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari)

Taraweeh is not just about physically standing in prayer; it’s about standing with a heart full of sincerity, seeking Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. It’s a time for self-reflection and spiritual growth, offering you the opportunity to strengthen your relationship with Allah and purify your soul. The reward for participating in Taraweeh is immense, as it brings forgiveness of past sins and opens doors to Paradise.

Here is a video that explains in detail:

🫂If it is your first Ramadan, please be gentle with yourself. Don’t push yourself too hard, your body is already adjusting dramatically to this new form of worship so if you are feeling too exhausted and burnt out, you can skip Taraweeh (it is optional) or start with a few rakaats (units of prayer).

How to Pray Taraweeh

Taraweeh can be prayed in sets of 2 rakaats (units of prayer) each. Most mosques and congregations pray Taraweeh in 2 rakaats intervals, totaling either 8 or 20 rakaats depending on the tradition followed.

• 8 rakaats: Common in some places, particularly for those who prefer to keep it shorter.
• 20 rakaats: More common in many mosques.

So, if you’re praying 8 rakaats, you’ll be doing it 4 times with short breaks in between each time, and if you’re praying 20 rakaats, you’ll be doing it 10 times, with short breaks in between each time. You can pray as many rakaats as you are comfortable with, but typically, it is prayed in multiples of 2 rakaats. So, if you’re praying at home and want to follow the same format, you can pray 2 rakaats, take a short break, and then continue with another 2 rakaats, and so on until you’ve prayed as many as you’d like.

The key is to focus on sincerity and devotion to Allah, whether you pray 2, 8, or 20 rakaats!

🔄If you need a refresher on prayer, go to the page where Salah is covered:

Salah: The Second Pillar of Islam

The difference between Taraweeh prayer and normal prayer is that you recite another surah after Al-Fatiha:

Recite Another Surah After Al-Fatiha

After reciting Surah Al-Fatiha, you should recite another Surah from the Qur’an in each rakaat. This could be a short Surah. In Taraweeh, the Imam will usually recite longer Surahs, but if you are praying at home, you can choose shorter Surahs for easier memorisation.

Example:

• Surah Al-Ikhlas (112)
• Surah Al-Falaq (113)
• Surah Al-Nas (114)

Taraweeh Pray Along

If you’re still new to Arabic, you can try praying alongside these videos:

*You can take a break after the end of each of the 2 rakaats. These videos complete a total of 20 rakaats and you don’t have to pray it all in one sitting (unless you want to) so feel free to pause the video after 2 rakaats (you’ll know one set of prayer is finished when you look to your right and left).

Practical Tips for Taraweeh:

1. Pacing Yourself: Taraweeh is usually a long prayer, especially when the Qur’an is being recited in its entirety throughout the month. It’s perfectly fine to take breaks between prayers, listen to the recitations attentively, and stay focused without feeling overwhelmed. If you’re new to Taraweeh or feeling physically exhausted, remember that the reward is in your effort and sincerity. Start with shorter prayers if needed and gradually build up your stamina as you become more comfortable.
2. Praying at Home: If you’re unable to attend Taraweeh at the mosque, don’t worry! You can perform the prayer at home. The Prophet (peace be upon him) encouraged praying in congregation, but he also acknowledged that it’s not always possible. The key is consistency and devotion, so set a goal to pray as much as you can, either individually or with your loved ones.
3. Understanding the Qur’an: Taraweeh is not just about the physical act of standing, but also about reflecting on the Qur’an. While the recitation may be long, try to understand the meaning behind the verses being read. You can read the translation of the Qur’an before or after the prayer to connect more deeply with the message. If you’re unsure about certain parts of the Qur’an, consider reading a translation or listening to explanations to help you gain more insight during the prayer.
4. Starting Small: If you’re new to Taraweeh and it feels challenging to pray the entire prayer at once, start with praying a few rakaats (units of prayer). You can increase the number gradually as you build your strength and comfort level. Even praying a small portion with sincerity will earn you great reward from Allah.
5. Making Dua After Taraweeh: After completing your Taraweeh prayers, take a moment to make dua (supplication). Ramadan is a blessed time when Allah is most receptive to the prayers of His servants. Ask Allah for forgiveness, guidance, and strength to continue worshipping with sincerity throughout the month. This is also a time to ask for personal goals and desires, keeping in mind the special significance of the month of Ramadan.
6. Maintaining Consistency: Taraweeh is a nightly act of worship, and it’s easy to get fatigued, especially as the days go by. To maintain consistency, plan your days so you can rest after your fasts and have the energy to perform the prayer. Pace yourself, and don’t feel pressured to pray the entire length of Taraweeh every night if it’s too difficult. The most important thing is that you make the effort and keep trying.
7. Seek Support and Motivation: Surround yourself with fellow believers who encourage you to continue your Taraweeh prayers. Whether it’s through attending the mosque, connecting with friends, or even encouraging your family members to join you, having a support system can keep you motivated and uplifted. Remember, the reward for every step you take in worship is greater than you can imagine, and even the smallest effort is cherished by Allah.

The Reward for Taraweeh:

The Prophet (peace be upon him) promised immense rewards for those who engage in Taraweeh with sincerity:

“Whoever prays the night of Ramadan with faith and seeking reward from Allah, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari)

This Hadith underscores the immense spiritual benefits of Taraweeh. When you pray Taraweeh with faith, not only do you get the physical benefits of worship, but your heart becomes purified and cleansed from sins. The act of standing in prayer during the blessed nights of Ramadan is a powerful way to seek Allah’s forgiveness and draw closer to Him.

Encouragement:

Remember that the act of worship in Ramadan, especially Taraweeh, is not about perfection. It is about your sincerity, your intention, and your desire to please Allah. No effort goes unnoticed. Even if you are unable to pray the full Taraweeh, your efforts are rewarded according to your ability. Keep striving, and know that every prayer, every prostration, and every moment spent in devotion is bringing you closer to Allah’s mercy and blessings.

May Allah make it easy for you to pray Taraweeh and grant you the strength to keep worshiping Him throughout this blessed month.

Zakat and Charity: Giving for the Sake of Allah

Ramadan is a time to give back, and charity is an essential practice during this month. One of the Five Pillars of Islam is zakat (obligatory charity), which requires Muslims to give a portion of their wealth to those in need. This is an opportunity to purify wealth and to share with the less fortunate.

Additionally, sadaqah (voluntary charity) is highly encouraged throughout Ramadan. Acts of charity, whether through donating money, time, or kindness, carry great rewards during this blessed month.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“The best charity is that which is given during Ramadan.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi)

Giving charity not only helps those in need but also purifies the giver’s wealth, increases their blessings, and strengthens the community.

For more information on Zakat:

Zakat: Purifying Your Wealth and Helping Others

Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Decree)

One of the most important nights during Ramadan is Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Decree), which is believed to fall on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last ten days of Ramadan. It is a night of great spiritual significance, as it was on this night that the Qur’an was first revealed. Allah promises that this night is better than a thousand months.

Nobody knows which of the 10 days Laylat al-Qadr falls on, so it is common for Muslims to take full advantage of all 10 days and treat each one as if it is the night of Laylat al-Qadr.

“Indeed, We sent it [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.” (Surah Al-Qadr, 97:1-3)

On this night, the angels descend, and prayers are answered. It’s a time to make abundant dua (supplication), seek forgiveness, and reflect deeply on one’s relationship with Allah.

Video Resources

The Last Ten Days of Ramadan

The last ten days of Ramadan are considered the most spiritually rewarding. Muslims intensify their worship during these final days, particularly in seeking Laylat al-Qadr. Many spend the nights in itikaf (spiritual retreat) at the mosque, focusing entirely on prayer, worship, and reflection.

Eid al-Fitr: A Celebration of Gratitude and Renewal

After the month-long fast of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast.” It is a momentous occasion filled with joy, gratitude, and a sense of renewal. This day is a time for expressing thanks to Allah for the strength and patience shown during Ramadan and for the forgiveness and blessings granted throughout the month. Eid al-Fitr marks not only the end of fasting but also the beginning of a new chapter of spiritual renewal.

🌙Make sure to keep up with your local Muslim community (mosque/centres/online groups etc.) to know the exact day of Eid al-Fitr. It depends on the moon sightings (just like how the beginning of Ramadan does).

• Ramadan is either 29 or 30 days long: The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, and months can be either 29 or 30 days depending on the moon sighting. If the moon is sighted on the 29th day of Ramadan, then the 30th day will not be completed, and Eid al-Fitr will fall the next day.
• Moon Sighting: If the moon is not sighted on the 29th day, then Ramadan completes 30 full days, and Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on the 31st day of Ramadan.

Here’s how Eid al-Fitr is celebrated and its practical significance:

Eid Prayer (Salat al-Eid):

• When: Eid begins with a special prayer, Salat al-Eid, which is usually performed in congregation at mosques or open fields. The prayer is held in the morning, often after the sun rises but before it reaches its peak.
• How: The prayer consists of two rakaats and is typically followed by a sermon (khutbah). The Imam leads the prayer, and the community joins in unity. It’s a moment of collective worship and a reminder of the unity of the Muslim Ummah (community).
• If you can’t go pray at a mosque, you can definitely pray at home!

Salah al-Eid Pray Along

If you’re new to Arabic, you can pray alongside these videos:

Zakat al-Fitr (Charity for the Needy):

• Before Eid Prayer: It’s obligatory for every Muslim, whether rich or poor, to give zakat al-fitr, a small charity, before the Eid prayer. This is meant to purify the fast and provide for those in need, allowing everyone to partake in the celebrations, regardless of their financial situation.
• Amount: The amount of zakat al-fitr is calculated based on the local cost of basic food items like wheat, dates, or barley. It’s often equivalent to the cost of one meal per person.
• Purpose: This charity not only helps the less fortunate but also encourages a sense of community and empathy. It’s a reminder to be grateful for the blessings of food and sustenance.

Gratitude and Celebration with Family and Friends:

• Gatherings: After the prayer, Muslims often visit family and friends, exchanging well wishes and enjoying meals together. It’s a time for reconnecting with loved ones, sharing happiness, and appreciating the support of the community throughout Ramadan.
• Food: The meals on Eid are usually special and abundant, often featuring traditional dishes, sweets, and desserts. It’s a time to indulge after a month of fasting and enjoy the simple joys of life.
• Gifts: Giving and receiving gifts is also a common practice, and it’s a way to show love and appreciation to others.

💖If you’re a revert and you don’t have a Muslim family, or a family who accepts your faith, you are not alone. It might be saddening to spend this day alone when there is so much emphasis on community and togetherness. If you can, try and go to a mosque or find Muslim groups. If you have accepting and open minded non-muslim friends, you can celebrate the day with them too. And if you still have no one to celebrate the day with, just know that you’re celebrating the day with Allah, so you’re never ever truly alone. Do your best to find joy, even if it’s in solitude (get your favourite food, go to your favourite place etc.)

Despite everything, you should be so so proud of yourself, especially if it’s your first Ramadan and know that I (the creator of this guide) and every other Muslim out there are more proud of you than you can ever imagine.

New Clothes and Personal Renewal:

• Dress Code: On Eid, Muslims often wear new or their best clothes, signifying a fresh start and gratitude for the opportunity to experience another Eid. It’s a celebration of the spiritual transformation that Ramadan has brought about.
• Personal Reflection: Eid is not only a time for external celebrations but also for internal renewal. Muslims reflect on the lessons learned during Ramadan, including patience, empathy, and gratitude, and seek to carry these virtues forward into the coming months.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the joy and gratitude of Eid, saying:

“For the one who fasts in Ramadan, there are two moments of joy: when he breaks his fast, he is joyful, and when he meets his Lord, he will be joyful with his reward.” (Sahih Bukhari)

While Eid is a time of celebration, it also marks a turning point—an opportunity to renew the commitment to live righteously, fulfill obligations to Allah, and serve others. By observing the customs and rituals of Eid, Muslims express their gratitude for the strength to complete Ramadan and for the opportunities to grow in faith and community.

Encouragement for Ramadan

Ramadan is a month of incredible blessings, but it also requires effort, patience, and perseverance. If you’re new to fasting or struggling with the challenges of the month, know that every effort you make is seen and valued by Allah. This is a time for personal growth, spiritual renewal, and closeness to Allah.

Remember, Allah is merciful and understands your struggles. Every prayer, every fast, every act of worship during Ramadan brings you closer to Him. Trust in His wisdom, and keep striving with sincerity. Ramadan is not just about fasting from food, but about purifying the heart, strengthening your faith, and increasing your devotion.

“Indeed, Allah does not allow to be lost the reward of those who do good.” (Qur’an 9:120)

May Allah accept your fasts, prayers, and good deeds during this blessed month. 🌙💖