As Ramadan 2025 begins today Saturday, March 1st—Muslims around the world are embracing this sacred month with devotion, self-reflection, and acts of worship. Various Islamic organizations have started pre-Ramadan lectures to help believers make the most of this spiritually enriching period.
To ensure a fulfilling and rewarding Ramadan, City People’s Jamiu Abubakar presents 30 essential practices that every Muslim should prioritize. These acts are divided into three key areas to enhance spirituality, kindness, and personal growth.
(1) ACTS OF WORSHIP & SPIRITUAL GROWTH
(1) Fast with Sincerity – Observe your fast solely for the sake of Allah, avoiding food, drink, and sinful actions. (Example: Controlling anger even when provoked.)
(2) Perform Taraweeh – Engage in the special night prayers (Taraweeh) after Isha, either in the mosque or at home. (Example: Making it a habit to attend or lead Taraweeh prayers with family.)
(3) Read & Reflect on the Qur’an – Dedicate time daily to read, understand, and apply the teachings of the Qur’an. (Example: Reading one juz’ per day to complete the entire Qur’an by the end of Ramadan.)
(4) Engage in Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah) – Regularly recite SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar to strengthen your connection with Allah. (Example: Making it a habit to say them 100 times after prayers.)
(5) Seek Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Power) – Intensify your worship during the last ten nights, especially on odd nights. (Example: Devoting the night to extra prayers and reciting Surah Al-Qadr.)
(6) Increase Du’a (Supplication) – Ask Allah for forgiveness, guidance, and mercy, especially at Iftar and during Tahajjud. (Example: Making personalized du’as for yourself, loved ones, and the Ummah.)
(7) Give Sadaqah (Charity) – Be generous in giving to the less privileged, as Ramadan multiplies rewards. (Example: Sponsoring meals for fasting individuals.)
(8) Fulfill Zakat (Obligatory Charity) – If due, calculate and distribute Zakat to those in need. (Example: Supporting orphans, widows, or funding community projects.)
(9) Observe I’tikaf (Spiritual Retreat) – Dedicate the last ten days to secluded worship in the mosque. (Example: Minimizing distractions and focusing on intense prayers.)
(10) Seek Forgiveness Constantly – Regularly say Astaghfirullah and repent sincerely for past sins. (Example: Making it a daily habit after each prayer.)
(2)ACTS OF KINDNESS & CHARITY
(11) Provide Iftar for Others – Earn the same reward as the fasting person by helping to provide their Iftar. (Example: Arranging food packs for distribution.)
(12) Help the Elderly – Show care and support to older members of your family and community. (Example: Running errands or preparing meals for an elderly neighbor.)
(13) Visit & Support the Sick – Strengthen bonds by checking on those who are unwell. (Example: Sending food, gifts, or comforting messages.)
(14) Forgive & Reconcile – Let go of past grudges and make peace with those you’ve had conflicts with. (Example: Calling a distant relative or friend to mend relationships.)
(15) Spread Smiles & Positivity – The Prophet (SAW) said a smile is charity; brighten someone’s day with kindness. (Example: Greeting people warmly and sincerely.)
(16) Share Islamic Knowledge – Teach others about Islam and Ramadan through guidance and reminders. (Example: Helping children learn du’as or prayer recitations.)
(17) Encourage Good Deeds – Motivate others to do righteous acts and improve their worship. (Example: Reminding friends to join Taraweeh or donate to charity.)
(18) Be Patient & Control Anger – Exercise restraint, even in difficult situations. (Example: Avoiding arguments and responding with calmness.)
(19) Give Small but Continuous Charity – The Prophet (SAW) said Allah loves consistent small deeds. (Example: Donating a little every day, even if it’s just a few coins.)
- Spread Salaam (Peace & Greetings) – Regularly greet fellow Muslims with As-salamu alaikum. (Example: Making it a habit to initiate greetings wherever you go.)
(3) SELF-IMPROVEMENT & PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
(21) Break Harmful Habits – Use Ramadan as an opportunity to quit bad behaviors. (Example: Replacing gossip or idle talk with Qur’an recitation.)
(22) Cultivate Gratitude – Reflect on your blessings and express appreciation. (Example: Keeping a gratitude journal to document daily blessings.)
(23) Strengthen Family Bonds – Spend more quality time with loved ones. (Example: Having Iftar and praying together as a family.)
(24) Help with Household Chores – Share responsibilities to ease the burden on others. (Example: Assisting with cooking, cleaning, and serving meals.)
(25) Use Gentle & Kind Words – Speak with politeness and wisdom, even in stressful situations. (Example: Avoiding harsh responses, even when tired or frustrated.)
(26) Write Letters of Encouragement – Express love and gratitude through handwritten letters or messages. (Example: Writing a heartfelt note to your parents or spouse.)
(27) Limit Social Media & Idle Talk – Reduce distractions and focus on meaningful engagement. (Example: Swapping excessive phone usage for Qur’an reading.)
(28) Volunteer in Community Service – Engage in helpful initiatives that uplift others. (Example: Cleaning the mosque or organizing food distribution.)
(29) Wake Up for Suhoor – Even if you’re not hungry, wake up for Suhoor, as it carries barakah. (Example: Eating a light meal and making du’a before Fajr.)
(30) Prioritize Personal Hygiene & Grooming – Islam encourages cleanliness and self-care. (Example: Using miswak, wearing fresh clothes, and maintaining good hygiene.)
MAXIMIZE THE BLESSINGS OF RAMADAN!
By practicing these 30 essential acts, you can make Ramadan a time of deep spiritual renewal, kindness, and self-improvement. May Allah accept our fasting, prayers, and good deeds. Ameen!
