OPINION: 5 things you can do to maximize blessings of Ramadan

Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, presents a unique opportunity for Muslims to deepen their spirituality, strengthen their connection with Allah, and earn abundant rewards.

As believers embark on this sacred Ramadan fast journey of self-discipline and devotion, implementing strategic practices can help maximize the blessings and benefits of fasting.

Here are five effective strategies and things you can do to enhance the blessings earned during Ramadan fasting.

Be intentional fasting with Sincerity (Niyyah)

The foundation of any act of worship in Islam is sincerity of intention (niyyah). Before beginning each day of Ramdan fast, it’s essential to make a sincere intention to fast solely for the sake of Allah and to seek His pleasure.

By consciously aligning our intentions with the teachings of Islam, every moment of fasting becomes an act of worship, leading to increased spiritual rewards.

Engage in more voluntary acts of worship

By engaging in additional acts of worship such as praying Tahajjud (night prayers) and making extra supplications (dua), you can multiply rewards during Ramadan.

In addition to the obligatory fasts of Ramadan, Muslims have the opportunity to earn extra rewards by observing Sunnah fasts and engaging in voluntary acts of worship beyond Ramadan.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged fasting on Mondays and Thursdays, as well as during the white days of each lunar month (13th, 14th, and 15th).

Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari relates that Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) says: “Whoever fasts the month of Ramadan and then follows it with six days of fasting in the month of Shawwal, it will be as if he had fasted the year through.” (Sahih Muslim, 1163).

The month of Shawwal is singled out for the observance of extra fasts, since this month follows immediately after Ramadan. The six days of voluntary fasting are to the obligatory fast of Ramadan what the Sunnah prayers are to the obligatory prayers.

Increased recitation of Qur’an and reflection

Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was revealed, making it the perfect time to deepen our connection with the holy book.

Allocating time each day for reciting and reflecting on the Quran allows believers to earn immense rewards and spiritual benefits.

Set aside dedicated periods for Quranic recitation, contemplation of its meanings, and memorization of verses.

Additionally, strive to implement the teachings of the Quran in daily life, thereby embodying its wisdom and guidance.

Be generous in acts of charity (Sadaqah)

Ramadan is synonymous with acts of charity and generosity, which hold immense rewards in Islam.

Take advantage of this blessed month to increase charitable giving and support those in need.

Donate to reputable charities, feed the hungry, assist the less fortunate, and contribute to community initiatives.

Even small acts of kindness and compassion carry great weight in the sight of Allah and can earn abundant rewards during Ramadan.

Seek Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Decree)

Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Decree, is a special night during the last ten days of Ramadan that holds immense significance and rewards.

Believed to occur on an odd-numbered night, typically within the last ten days of Ramadan, Laylat al-Qadr is described in the Quran as better than a thousand months.

Engage in intensified worship during these nights, including extra prayers, Quranic recitation, supplications, and seeking forgiveness.

By actively seeking Laylat al-Qadr and devoting oneself to worship during this auspicious time, believers can earn unparalleled rewards and blessings.

Ramadan fasting offers a unique opportunity for Muslims to maximize their rewards and spiritual growth.

By adopting these strategies — intentional fasting with sincerity, observing Sunnah fasts and voluntary acts of worship, increasing recitation of the Quran and reflection, practicing generosity and acts of charity, and seeking Laylat al-Qadr — you can make the most of this blessed month and earn abundant rewards that will benefit you in this life and the hereafter