Following the sighting of the moon in the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims across the globe begun fasting from dawn to dusk on Monday. Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, hence, a major reason it is held in high esteem.
During the month, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual relations from dawn to sunset, with the hope that it will lead to greater “taqwa”, or consciousness of God.
The dos of fasting are the recommended acts or practices that are considered deeply for personal worship in which Muslims seek a raised level of closeness to God.
Here are some of the things Muslims should engage in during the month of Ramadan.
Read the Quran daily
During the 29 or 30 days of fasting, Muslims are not just enjoined to read the Quran everyday but to also understand the writings and utilize the lessons therein.
Engage in good deeds
While Islam urges its followers to always engage in good deeds, such acts are more emphasized in the month of Ramadan. “Sadaqah” which means charity is one way to perform good deeds to be done in the month of Ramadan. Muslims are encouraged to give alms to the poor, help the needy, and also pay homage to the sick.
Observe tahajuud and seek forgiveness
Muslims are encouraged to observe midnight prayers, known as “tahajuud” and to engage more in the act of seeking forgiveness of sins.
Increase your remembrance of Allah
In the month of Ramadan, Muslims are expected to get closer to Allah by remembering Him always. The holy Quran in surat al-‘aĥzāb 33: verse 41 reads, “O You who believe! Remember Allah with much remembrance”.
Muslims can do this by engaging in “zikr”, act of remembrance, by repeating SubhanAllah (all praises be unto Allah), La hawla wa la quwwata illabillah (There is no power or might except (by) Allah), Allahuakbar (Allah is the greatest), among others.
Observe Solat at the right time
Despite the series of activities which take place in the month of Ramadan, Muslims are still expected to perform their daily solat (five daily prayers) as usual during the holy month.
Lower your gaze and attend events in the masjid
Muslims are to lower their gazes to avoid temptation and sights that arouse during the month of Ramadan. They are also enjoined to attend lectures and other events in the masjid (mosque).
Observe Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Majesty)
Muslims should be mindful of the last ten nights in the month of Ramadan, as they are to observe Laylatul Qadr. They are encouraged to double their good deeds and prayers in order to benefit from the night.
Below are some of the things to avoid during the month of Ramadan.
Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, drugs
Muslims are to shun drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes or taking drugs which are harmful to their health during the month of Ramadan.
Avoid sex, romance
Having sex is one way to damage one’s fasting. Therefore, Muslims are to avoid sexual intercourse or romance which could possible lead to such.
Avoid unnecessary talks
Muslims are enjoined to avoid engaging in unnecessary talks during Ramadan. Rather, it is recommended that such time be invested in reading the Quran or remembering Allah.
Avoid excessive sleep or lazy attitude
Muslims are to avoid excessive sleep. Every second or minute in the month of Ramadan should be well utilized to reap full reward in the month.
Do not over-react to issues
Muslims are to remain calm, peaceful and engaging during the month of Ramadan. They should control their temper and not over-react to issues.
Avoid adult contents online and do not over-socialize
Muslims are enjoined to avoid adult talks or viewing of adult related contents on the internet. Also, they should not over-socialize. Instead, they are to engage in sober reflection more often.