How to spend a day in Ramadan

How to spend a day in Ramadan

Ramadan is more than a month—it’s a gift, a season of mercy, and a chance to draw closer to Allah (SWT). For Muslims worldwide, it’s a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community, rooted in the divine command and the example of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Quran says,

“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:183)

This verse captures the heart of Ramadan: a path to taqwa (God-consciousness), paved with devotion and discipline.

So, how do we live out a day in Ramadan to make the most of its blessings? Let’s walk through it step-by-step, weaving in guidance from the Quran and Hadith to light the way.

Suhoor: Starting with Intention and Blessings

The day begins before dawn with suhoor, the pre-fast meal that fuels both body and soul. The Prophet (PBUH) said,

“Take suhoor, for there is a blessing in it” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1923)

It’s not just about eating—it’s about seizing that barakah (blessing). Wake up a little early, even if it’s tough, and keep it simple: dates, water, some bread or oatmeal—whatever sustains you. As you eat, make your niyyah (intention) for fasting, a quiet promise to Allah (SWT) to seek His pleasure.

This pre-dawn moment is serene, a time when the world is still and your heart can focus. Pair it with a dua, like the one the Prophet (PBUH) taught: “I intend to fast today for the sake of Allah.” It’s a small act, but it sets the tone for everything to come.

Fajr: Welcoming the Day with Prayer

As the first light streaks the sky, Fajr prayer calls. The Quran reminds us,

“So establish prayer—indeed, prayer has been enjoined on the believers at specified times” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:103)

This is your spiritual anchor, a connection to Allah (SWT) before the fast begins. After praying, linger a bit—recite some Quran or make dhikr (remembrance of Allah). The Prophet (PBUH) said,

“The closest a servant is to his Lord is when he is prostrating” (Sahih Muslim, 482)

So those extra moments on the mat are gold.

If you can, rest afterward to recharge, or dive into the Quran. Its words hit deeper in Ramadan, as it was revealed in this month:

“The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:185)

Morning and Midday: Fasting with Purpose

Fasting kicks in at dawn—no food, no water, no distractions from the goal. It’s a test, sure, but it’s also a teacher. The Prophet (PBUH) said,

“Fasting is a shield; so when one of you is fasting, he should neither indulge in obscene language nor raise his voice…” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1904)

This is your chance to guard your tongue, your thoughts, and your actions.

Go about your day—work, school, chores—but let Ramadan shape how you move through it. When hunger nudges you, remember the reward:

“The fasting person has two moments of joy: one when he breaks his fast, and one when he meets his Lord” (Sahih Muslim, 1151)

At Dhuhr prayer, pause to reconnect. If you’ve got a moment, reflect on a verse or say, “SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar”—small steps to stack your blessings.

Afternoon: Perseverance and Asr

By afternoon, the fast might feel heavy—thirst sets in, energy dips. This is where sabr (patience) shines. Allah (SWT) promises,

“Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease” (Surah Ash-Sharh, 94:6)

. Lean into Asr prayer as your checkpoint; it’s a reminder you’re nearing the finish line. The Prophet (PBUH) loved this time, saying,

“May Allah have mercy on a person who prays four rak’ahs before Asr” (Sunan Abu Dawud, 1277)

If you can, add those extra sunnah prayers—they’re like a spiritual boost.

Iftar: Breaking the Fast with Gratitude

When the sun sets and Maghrib calls, it’s iftar time—a moment of pure relief and joy. Follow the Sunnah by breaking your fast with dates and water, as the Prophet (PBUH) did:

“He would break his fast with fresh dates before praying; if there were no fresh dates, then with dry dates, and if there were none, with a few sips of water” (Sunan Abu Dawud, 2356)

Say the dua: “Dhahaba adh-dhama’, wabtallat al-‘urooq, wa thabata al-ajru in sha Allah” (“The thirst is gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is confirmed, if Allah wills”).

This isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration of Allah’s mercy. Share it if you can; the Prophet (PBUH) said,

“Whoever provides the food for a fasting person to break his fast with, he will have the same reward as him…” (Jami’ at-Tirmidhi, 807)

Night: Isha, Taraweeh, and Reflection

After iftar, the night blooms with Isha prayer, followed by Taraweeh—the special Ramadan night prayers. The Prophet (PBUH) said,

“Whoever prays at night in Ramadan out of faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2009)

Whether you join the congregation at the mosque or pray at home, it’s a time to soak in the Quran’s recitation and let it soften your heart.

Before bed, reflect. Ask for forgiveness—Ramadan’s doors of mercy are wide open. Allah (SWT) says,

“And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:186)

Make dua, sip some tea, and rest knowing you’ve lived a day for Him.

The Heart of It

A day in Ramadan isn’t about perfection—it’s about effort. The Quran and Hadith guide us, but it’s our sincerity that brings it to life. From the quiet of suhoor to the peace of Taraweeh, every step is a chance to grow closer to Allah (SWT). So, take it as it comes—some days you’ll soar, others you’ll stumble—and trust the promise:

“For those who have taqwa of Allah, He will make for them a way out and provide for them from where they do not expect” (Surah At-Talaq, 65:2-3)

How do you spend your Ramadan days? Share your thoughts below—let’s inspire each other in this blessed month.