The month of Ramadhan has now arrived – the month of great blessings, mercy, and opportunities for spiritual growth. As a result, we, as devout believers, must ensure that every moment spent in this month is used towards strengthening our spirituality and relationship with Allah (SWT). During this month, we naturally find ourselves striving to increase our acts of worship but, sometimes, we overlook simple yet powerful ways to draw closer to Allah (SWT). While fasting, praying Taraweeh, and giving charity are well-known practices, there are other valuable acts of worship that deserve our attention, and the same levels of enthusiasm as other actions.
Make dua more frequently
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) has beautifully said in a hadith, “Dua is worship itself (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, 3247).” Yet, many of us limit our supplications to before breaking our fast or during Salaah. In Ramadhan, our duas hold special significance, especially in the last third of the night and at the time of breaking fast. Instead of only asking for worldly needs, let us remember to make dua for guidance, forgiveness, and the well-being of the entire Ummah.
Seeking istighfar consistently
We often associate seeking forgiveness with Laylatul Qadr, istighfar is something we should increase throughout the month. The Prophet (SAW) used to seek forgiveness more than 70 times a day. This simple act purifies our hearts and strengthens our relationship with Allah (SWT). Saying Astaghfirullah with sincerity can erase sins and invite Allah (SWT)’s mercy upon us.
Be kind to your family and neighbors
Along with abstaining from eating and drinking, Ramadhan is also about using the blessed month to refine our character. The Prophet (SAW) said, “The best of you are the best to their families, and I am the best to my family (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, 3895).”
Feed others, even if it is something small
The Prophet (SAW) said, “Whoever gives food for a fasting person to break his fast, he will have a reward like theirs, without that detracting from their reward in the slightest (Sunah ibn Majah, 146).” While many of us give to charity during Ramadhan, we sometimes overlook the beauty of simply sharing a meal or offering a date to someone in need. This small act can multiply our blessings immensely.
Don’t just read The Quran, reflect on it
Many of us set a goal to complete The Quran in the month of Ramadhan, which is no doubt a beautiful goal; however, we need to also take the time out to reflect on its meanings. Allah (SWT) says in Surah Muhammad, “Do they not then reflect on the Quran? Or are there locks upon their hearts? (The Clear Quran®, 47:24).” Even if we do not understand Arabic fluently, reading the translation, pondering over its messages, and acting upon its teachings are acts of worship that transform our heart.
Show gratitude for every blessing
Fasting teaches us patience and gratitude, but do we consciously express thanks to Allah (SWT)? Allah (SWT) says in the Quran, “And remember when your Lord proclaimed, ‘If you are grateful, I will certainly give you more. But if you are ungrateful, surely My punishment is severe (The Clear Quran®, 14:7).” Let us make it a habit to thank Allah (SWT) for food, health, family, and the ability to worship. Expressing gratitude is an act of worship that brings more barakah into our lives.
Making intentions for every act
A simple shift in mindset can turn everyday tasks into acts of worship. If we make the intention to cook for our families for the sake of Allah (SWT), to work with honesty, or to sleep early to wake for Tahajjud, these become acts of worship. The Prophet (SAW) said, “Actions are judged by niyyat, so each man will have what he intended (Sahih Muslim).” This means that even mundane activities can become a source of reward if done with sincerity.
Guarding the tongue and controlling anger
An important action that the believers are advised to perform is controlling one’s anger, and the tongue. The Prophet (SAW) said, “Whoever does not give up false speech and evil actions, Allah is not in need of leaving his food and drink (Sahih Bukhari).” We should be mindful of our words, avoid gossip, and practice patience when facing anger.
Maintaining ties of kinship
Ramadhan is an ideal time to mend broken relationships. Calling a distant relative, forgiving an old dispute, or simply checking in on family members is an act of worship that Allah (SWT) loves. The Prophet (SAW) said, “The one who severs the ties of kinship will not enter Paradise (Sahih Muslim).” Let us take this opportunity to strengthen bonds and earn Allah (SWT)’s pleasure.
Give a smile and spread positivity
Even smiling is an act of charity, as the Prophet (SAW) said, “Your smiling in the face of your brother is charity (Jami’ at-Tirmidhi, 1956).” Ramadhan is a time of reflection, but it is also a time to uplift others. Being a source of comfort and joy for those around us is a simple yet often overlooked way to earn rewards.
Ramadhan is a month that overflows with spiritual opportunities. While fasting and prayer are at the core of this blessed time, there are so many other ways to draw closer to Allah (SWT). Even the smallest acts of kindness, gratitude, and reflection can bring immense rewards. Ramadhan is a time for deep spiritual growth. Small, intentional efforts each day will bring us closer to Allah (SWT) and transform us in ways we may not have anticipated.