What is I’tikaf and why do people do it?
I’tikaf is a deeply spiritual practice observed during the last ten days of Ramadhan, where a Muslim retreats to the masjid for dedicated worship, reflection, and closeness to Allah (SWT). It is a time of solitude, free from worldly distractions, allowing the heart and soul to connect with the Creator. This practice was highly emphasized by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), who observed it regularly and encouraged his followers to do the same. But what exactly is i’tikaf, and why do Muslims dedicate themselves to it? Let’s explore its meaning, purpose, and significance in light of The Quran and Sunnah. The word I’tikaf comes from the Arabic root which means to adhere to something continuously. In an Islamic context, I’tikaf refers to: A spiritual retreat inside a masjid, where a person dedicates their time to worship, prayer, and reflection. Typically observed in the last 10 nights of Ramadhan, seeking the special night of Laylat ul Qadr (The Night of Decree). A period of isolation from worldly distractions, focusing entirely on remembrance of Allah (SWT) through dhikr, reciting The Quran, and voluntary prayers. Allah (SWT) mentions I’tikaf in The Quran, highlights its importance when he says, “Do not be intimate with your spouses while you are meditating in the mosques.” (The Clear Quran®, 2:187) This verse establishes that I’tikaf is an act of devotion performed inside the masjid, requiring full dedication to worship. Muslims perform I’tikaf for five main reasons: To follow the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW): During his lifetime, the Prophet (SAW) never abandoned I’tikaf. Even if he missed it one year, he made it up one later. In a hadith, Aisha has reported, “The Prophet used to practice I’tikaf in the last 10 days of Ramadhan till he died and then his wives used to practice I’tikaf after them.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2026) To seek Layat ul Qadr (The Night of Power): One of the greatest motivations for I’tikaf is seeking Laylat ul Qadr, a night which is better than a thousand months! Once again following the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW), he says in a hadith, “Seek Laylat ul Qadr in the last 10 nights of Ramadhan.” (Sahih al-Bukhari) To disconnect from the dunya: Modern life is filled with distractions (social media, work, and daily responsibilities. I’tikaf provides an opportunity to detach from worldly concerns, focus entirely on Allah (SWT), purify the heart and renew faith. To strengthen one’s connection with The Quran: During I’tikaf, Muslims dedicate hours to reciting The Quran, reflecting on its meanings, making dua and increasing dhikr. The Prophet (SAW) has said, “The best among you (Muslims) are those who learn the Quran and teach it.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 5027) To gain self-discipline and taqwa: I’tikaf is a time of self-discipline, sincerity, and taqwa. This is one of the best times to further your mastery of yourself as self-discipline is a core habit we already instill within ourselves in Ramadhan while fasting. Allah (SWT) says, “O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you—so perhaps you will become mindful of Allah.” (The Clear Quran®, 2:183) I’tikaf can be performed by men in masaajid, and women in a designated place in their homes if they are unable to go to a masjid. In a hadith, Bibi Aisha (RA) has said, “the Prophet used to practice I’tikaf in the last ten days of Ramadhan, and I used to pitch a tent for him, and after offering the morning prayer, he used to enter the tent.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2033) If you want to prepare for I’tikaf: Make the intention (niyyah) for I’tikaf. Choose a masjid that holds I’tikaf programs. Minimize worldly distractions (for example, phones and unnecessary talks. Bring essentials: Quran, dhikr books, and simple necessities. Plan daily ibadah goals: Quran recitation, dhikr, and dua. I’tikaf is a spiritual retreat unlike any other where you have time to disconnect from the world and reconnect with Allah (SWT). It is a powerful way to: Follow the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW). Seek the blessings of Laylat ul Qadr. Strengthen faith, patience, and sincerity. Improve self-discipline and worship. As Ramadhan approaches its final days, will you take this opportunity to draw closer to Allah (SWT)?
10 ways to prepare for Laylatul Qadr
There is a night in Ramadhan cloaked in divine mystery. A night when the heavens opened, and The Quran descended. A night so powerful that its worth surpasses a thousand months. It is a night when the angels fill the skies, when mercy flows freely, sins are erased, and destinies are written by the will of Al-’Aleem. This is the night of Laylatul Qadr. One that is upon us any of these last 10 nights, and one that requires sincere and immense preparation so we may truly make it a night where our qadr changes for the better, In shaa Allah, Ameen! Allah (SWT) says in The Quran, “The Night of Glory is better than a thousand months.” (The Clear Quran®, 97:3). The weight of this verse alone should stop us in our tracks. One night of sincere worship, if accepted, is worth more than 83 years of worship. We may not live for more than 80 years, but Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, gifted us Laylatul Qadr to make the most of the time we do have. So, how do we prepare for this exalted night? How do we ensure that we don’t just pass through this night, but that we rise during it? Here are 10 practical and spiritual ways you can prepare for Laylatul Qadr, starting right now. Start by purifying your intentions: Before jumping into action, pause and check your heart. Ask yourself: Why do I want to catch Laylatul Qadr? Is it to please Allah (SWT)? Or just to tick a box? The Prophet (SAW) has said, “Actions are judged by niyyat (intention), so each man will have what he intended.” (Sahih al-Bukhari) A practical tip is to set a sincere intention that you’re seeking this night to gain Allah (SWT)’s closeness, forgiveness, and reward. Not for show, not for habit, but purely just for Him (SWT). Learn the signs and virtues of Laylatul Qadr: It’s crucial to know what you’re striving for. The more you understand Laylatul Qadr, the more your heart will yearn for it. Some signs from authentic narrations include: A calm and serene night. It is neither hot nor cold. The sun rises the next day without sharp rays. A night filled with peace until dawn. Knowing these signs can help you stay connected and conscious throughout the last 10 nights. Make Tawbah before the 10 nights begin, and during the 10 nights: Forgiveness always starts with acknowledging our mistakes! In shaa Allah, before the last 10 nights arrived, you asked Allah (SWT) to forgive your past sins and enter the nights with a clean heart. Making sincere tawbah beforehand allows you to raise your hands on Laylatul Qadr from a place of humility and hope. The Prophet (SAW) has said, “Whoever prays at night in Ramadhan out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 37) Free up your schedule: If possible, take time off of work or reduce commitments during the last 10 nights. These are not ordinary nights. They are an opportunity that you just cannot afford to miss as a Muslim. You can make this easier on yourself by: Preparing your iftar meals early. Wrapping up work or errands in the day. Unplugging from distractions (and yes, once again, that also removes social media. For a full guide on practical steps to practice, be sure to read our previous article!). Your energy, focus, and heart need space to worship. Don’t let the dunya distract you during this golden window. Create a simple ibaadah plan: You don’t need a six-page spreadsheet or a perfectly color-coded journal. What you really need is a realistic and consistent plan. Here’s a simple nightly plan that you can try: 2 rak’ahs of Tahajjud 2 pages of Quran 10-15 minutes of dhikr 5-10 minutes of dua 2 rak’ahs of Salaat ul Tawbah Memorize and repeat the dua taught by the Prophet (SAW): Bibi Aisha (RA) once asked the Prophet (SAW), “O Messenger of Allah! If I know which night is Laylatul Qadr, what should I say during it?” The Prophet (SAW) then replied, “O Allah! Indeed you are pardoning, and you love to pardon, so pardon me.” (Sunan at-Tirmidhi, 3513) Memorize this dua, repeat it often, and say it with your heart wide open, in shaa Allah! Give charity every night: You don’t know which night is Laylatul Qadr. So why not give a little every single night during the last 10? Many platforms at Al-Furqaan Foundation, for example, even offer automated donation options so you don’t forget! Imagine just giving $30 a night – if it falls on Laylatul Qadr, it’s as if you gave that amount every day for 83 years! Allahu Akbar!Allah (SWT) says in The Quran, “The example of those who spend their wealth in the cause of Allah is that of a grain that sprouts into seven ears, each bearing one hundred grains. And Allah multiplies the reward even more to whoever He wills. For Allah is All-Bountiful, All-Knowing.” (The Clear Quran®, 2:261) Make a personal dua list: Don’t leave your dua to the last minute. Take some time to: Write down your duas. Be specific by mentioning names, details, and feelings. Include the duas for your aakhirah first before you beseech for the dunya. Talk to Allah (SWT) as your Lord, your Sustainer and, ultimately, your Friend. This night is all about heartfelt connection and one that will carry forward even after Ramadhan ends, if we are so fortunate, in shaa Allah. Involve your family: While ibaadah can be personal, Laylatul Qadr is also a beautiful chance to involve your loved ones: Wake your children gently for a short prayer. Light candles or dim the lights to create a peaceful, reflective space. Read a small portion of The Quran together. The Prophet (SAW) used to wake his family in the last 10 nights to pray. Let your home also feel the noor of Laylatul Qadr. Stay consistent
The significance of sharing food in Ramadhan
Ramadhan is a month of fasting, worship, and deep spiritual reflection. It is also a time when acts of charity and generosity are greatly emphasized. Among the most virtuous deeds in this blessed month is feeding others, particularly those who are fasting. This practice is rooted in the teachings of The Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW). Sharing food with others carries immense rewards, purifies the soul, and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and compassion within the Ummah. Providing nourishing food, whether to the needy or those who are fasting, is an act of charity that is greatly emphasized in Islam. The Quran encourages believers to share food with others as an expression of faith and righteousness. Allah (SWT) says in Surah Al-Insan, “…and give food—despite their desire for it—to the poor, the orphan, and the captive, saying to themselves, ‘We feed you only for the sake of Allah, seeking neither reward nor thanks from you.’” (The Clear Quran®, 76:8-9) This verse highlights the pure intention behind feeding others—it should be done sincerely for the sake of Allah (SWT), without expecting anything in return. The Prophet (SAW) said, “He who provides a fasting person with which to break his fast, will earn the same reward as the one who was observing the fast, without diminishing in any way the reward of the latter.” (Sunan At-Tirmidhi) This hadith underscores the immense reward of feeding a fasting person, as it allows the one who provides the food to receive the same reward as the fasting person. The Prophet (SAW) was known for his unmatched spirit of giving, and he increased his acts of charity during Ramadhan. Ibn Abbas described the generosity of the Prophet (SAW), “The Messenger of Allah (SAW) was the most generous of people, and he was even more generous during Ramadhan when Jibreel met him… When Jibreel met him, he was more generous in doing good than the blowing wind.” (Sahih al-Bukhari) His generosity included giving charity, providing food, and ensuring that others had enough to break their fast. Following his Sunnah, we should also strive to be more generous in Ramadhan, especially by feeding others. Feeding those who are hungry is a great way to gain Allah (SWT)’s mercy and forgiveness, emphasized in the following hadith that describes feeding others as not only an act of kindness, but also a direct path to Jannah. The Prophet (SAW) said, “O people! Spread peace, feed others, uphold family ties, and pray at night when people are asleep, and you will enter Paradise in peace.” (Sunan ibn Majah, 1334) So, how can we implement the Sunnah of feeding others in Ramadhan? Here are some suggestions: Host iftar for family, friends, and neighbors. Sharing food strengthens bonds and increases love among Muslims. Provide meals for the poor. Many people struggle to afford food, and Ramadhan is a great time to help them. Contribute to masjid or charity iftar programs. A number of mosques and organizations arrange iftar meals for the needy. Give food baskets to struggling families. This allows them to have enough food for the entire month. Offer water and dates to those who are fasting. Even a small contribution like this can grant you immense rewards. Feeding people in Ramadhan has several spiritual benefits: Earns immense rewards. The reward is equivalent to fasting without diminishing the fast itself. Increases barakah in one’s sustenance. Generosity leads to more provision from Allah (SWT). Strengthens brotherhood and unity. Sharing food fosters love and compassion in the community. Brings Allah (SWT)’s mercy and forgiveness. Acts of kindness lead to purification of sins. Following the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW). Practicing generosity is a way to emulate his noble character. Feeding others in Ramadhan is one of the most rewarding acts a Muslim can do. Whether it is feeding the poor, providing iftar for fasting individuals, or simply sharing meals with neighbors, this noble deed carries immense rewards from Allah (SWT). The Quran and Sunnah emphasize its significance, promising both worldly blessings and eternal rewards. As we continue to observe Ramadhan, let us strive to increase our generosity and earn the pleasure of Alalh (SWT) by feeding those in need. After all, the Prophet (SAW) said, “The best of you are those who feed others.” (Musnad Ahmad, 23926). May Allah (SWT) grant us the ability to be among those who feed others sincerely for His sake and bless us with His mercy in this holy month. Ameen!
The Battle of Badr
The Battle of Badr was the first major military confrontation in Islamic history and a defining moment for the Muslim community. Fought on the 17th of Ramadhan in the second year after the Hijrah (624 CE), this battle was both a test of physical endurance and it was also a great spiritual trial for the believing Muslims. The victory at Badr was a clear sign of Allah (SWT)’s support for the believers which reinforced their faith and established the Muslim community as a formidable force. This article provides a detailed account of the Battle of Badr, its background, key events, and its lasting impact on Islamic history, using authentic sources from The Quran, ahadith, and historical records. Why Did the Battle Happen? Persecution in Makkah and the migration to Madinah: For over a decade, the early Muslims in Makkah faced relentless persecution at the hands of the Quraysh, the powerful tribe that controlled the city. Many were tortured, forced into exile, and even killed. After enduring years of hardship, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and his followers migrated to Madinah in what is now known as the Hijrah (migration) in 622 CE. However, the Quraysh were not willing to let the Muslims live in peace. They saw the growing Muslim community in Madinah as a direct threat to their economic and political dominance in Arabia. The Quraysh’s trade caravan and the Muslim response: In early 624 CE, a Quraysh trade caravan, led by Abu Sufyan, was returning from Syria to Makkah, carrying significant wealth. The Prophet (SAW) and his companions planned to intercept this caravan as a way to weaken the Quraysh economically and reclaim some of the wealth that had been confiscated from them when they were forced to leave Makkah. Abu Sufyan, sensing the danger, sent an urgent message to Makkah, calling for military reinforcements. The Quraysh responded by raising a large army of 1,000 warriors, including their most skilled fighters, and set out to confront the Muslims. The Muslim Army and the Quraysh Forces The Muslims: The Prophet (SAW) and 313 companions marched towards Badr, a strategic location with access to water wells. However, they were not expecting a large-scale battle. The Muslim army consisted of: Only two horses and 70 camels (the men would take turns riding). Relatively few weapons and armor. Deep faith and reliance on Allah (SWT). The Quraysh: On the other hand, the Quraysh arrived at Badr with: 1,000 warriors 100 horses and 600 suits of armor. A strong sense of arrogance, believing they would easily defeat the Muslims Despite being outnumbered, the Muslims stood firm, placing their yaqeen (faith) in Allah (SWT) that they would become successful in the end. The Night Before the Battle That night, the Prophet (SAW) spent hours in deep supplication, praying to Allah (SWT) for victory. He raised his hands and made one of the most powerful duas in Islamic history: للَّهُمَّ أَنْجِزْ لِي مَا وَعَدْتَنِي اللَّهُمَّ آتِ مَا وَعَدْتَنِي اللَّهُمَّ إِنْ تَهْلِكْ هَذِهِ الْعِصَابَةُ مِنْ أَهْلِ الإِسْلاَمِ لاَ تُعْبَدْ فِي الأَرْضِ “O Allah, fulfill for me what You have promised me! O Allah, grant me what You have promised me! O Allah, if this small group of Muslims perishes today, You will not be worshipped on earth!” (Sahih Muslim, 1763) Allah (SWT) then revealed a promise of divine assistance: إِذْ تَسْتَغِيثُونَ رَبَّكُمْ فَٱسْتَجَابَ لَكُمْ أَنِّى مُمِدُّكُم بِأَلْفٍۢ مِّنَ ٱلْمَلَـٰٓئِكَةِ مُرْدِفِينَ “Remember when you cried out to your Lord for help, He answered, “I will reinforce you with a thousand angels—followed by many others.” (The Clear Quran®, 8:9) That night, Allah (SWT) granted the Muslims peace and sleep, strengthening their spirits for the battle ahead. The Day of the Battle The Prophet (SAW)’s tactical strategy: On the morning of 17th Ramadhan, the Prophet (SAW) carefully positioned the Muslim army. They controlled the wells of Badr, cutting off the enemy’s access to water, and the Muslim ranks were disciplined and united under one leadership, while the Quraysh forces lacked unity. Before the battle began, the Prophet (SAW) lifted his sword and asked, “Who will take this sword and do justice with it?” Many companions wanted to take it, but the Prophet (SAW) handed it to Abu Dujanah, who fought bravely with it. (Riyad as-Salihin, 91) The duels and the start of the battle: As per Arab custom, the battle began with individual duels. Three warriors from the Quraysh—Utbah ibn Rabi’ah, Shaybah ibn Rabi’ah, and Al-Walid ibn Utbah—stepped forward and challenged the Muslims. The Prophet (SAW) sent three of his bravest companions, Hamza ibn Abdul Mutallib, Ali ibn Abi Talib, and Ubaydah ibn Al-Harith. Hamza ibn Abdul Mutallib and Ali ibn Abi Talib swiftly defeated their opponents, while Ubaydah ibn Al-Harith was injured and later attained martyrdom. After this, the full battle erupted and the Muslims, despite being outnumbered, fought with courage. Divine Help and the Turning Point As the battle raged on, Allah (SWT) sent angels to support the Muslims. Many companions reported seeing white-clothed warriors on horseback fighting alongside them. Allah (SWT) said in The Quran, “Indeed, Allah made you victorious at Badr when you were vastly outnumbered. So be mindful of Allah, perhaps you will be grateful.” (The Clear Quran®, 3:123) After fierce fighting, the Quraysh began to retreat. 70 of their men were killed, including Abu Jahl, one of Islam’s greatest enemies. Another 70 were captured, and the Muslims secured a decisive victory. Aftermath and Victory The victory at Badr boosted Muslim morale and established them as a powerful force. Many Quraysh leaders who opposed Islam perished, causing them to weaken their grip on Makkah Some captives were freed upon teaching Muslim children to read and write. The Muslims gained weapons and armor, strengthening their defenses for future battles. The victory proved that faith and reliance on Allah (SWT) are greater than numbers or material strength. The Battle of Badr was a turning point in Islamic history. It showed that Allah (SWT) supports those who strive in His cause with sincerity. May we draw inspiration
Why volunteering in Ramadhan is one of the best ways to earn rewards
Ramadhan is the holiest month in Islam, and it is a time of fasting, prayer, great self-reflection, and increased worship so that we can bring ourselves even closer to Allah (SWT). However, one of the most beautiful aspects about this month that sets it apart from all other months in the lunar calendar is the emphasis on kindness, generosity, and helping others. Volunteer work in this blessed month is a powerful and easy way to earn Allah (SWT)’s pleasure, strengthen your faith, and support those in need. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was known for his unmatched generosity, especially during Ramadhan. Ibn Abbas reports in a hadith documented in Sahih Bukhari, “The Messenger of Allah was the most generous of people, and he was even more generous in Ramadhan when Jibraeel met with him” (Sahih Bukhari, 3554). This hadith teaches us that Ramadhan is a time to give, just as the Prophet (SAW) did. Whether it’s feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, or supporting orphans, every small act of kindness carries immense rewards. As Muslims, we should be grateful that our religion calls for helping others not simply as an encouraged act but, rather, as an obligation. Allah (SWT) commands this in The Quran when He says, “Establish prayer, and pay alms-tax. Whatever good you send forth for yourselves, you will certainly find its reward with Allah. Surely Allah is All-Seeing of what you do” (The Clear Quran®, 2:110). While zakat (obligatory charity) is one form of giving, voluntary acts of kindness also bring great blessings. The Prophet (SAW) said, “The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others” (al-Mu’jam al-Awsat, 5937). Ramadhan is the perfect time to act on this teaching by engaging in volunteer work and community service. The rewards of volunteer work in Ramadhan It is the best month to maximize good deeds: One of the greatest blessings of Ramadhan is the multiplication of rewards. The Prophet (SAW) has said, “The month of Ramadhan has come, a blessed month in which Allah Almighty has obligated you to fast. In it the gates of the heavens are opened, the gates of Hellfire are closed, the devils are chained, and in it is a night that is better than a thousand months. Thus, whoever is deprived of its good is truly deprived” (Musnad Ahmad, 7148). This means that even a small act of kindness in Ramadhan brings rewards many times over. Charity protects from the fire: Giving in charity is a way to protect ourselves from Hellfire. The Prophet (SAW) said, “Protect yourselves from the Fire, even if it is by giving half a date in charity” (Sahih Bukhari, 498). If we can obtain sanction from the Hellfire by giving just half of a date, imagine the rewards we will receive when feeding an entire family for iftar! Volunteer work earns Allah (SWT)’s mercy: Allah (SWT) loves those who help others. The Quran says, “Indeed, Allah’s mercy is always close to the good-doers” (The Clear Quran®, 7:56). When we help others, whether by donating, volunteering, or spreading kindness, we bring ourselves closer to Allah (SWT)’s mercy. Types of volunteer work in Ramadhan Feeding the hungry: One of the best deeds in Ramadhan is feeding a fasting person. 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” (Sunan ibn Majah, 1746).Here are some ways you can participate within your local community this Ramadhan: Donate meals to a local mosque or community center Help prepare iftar for the poor Arrange food packages for needy families Helping the elderly and sick: The elderly and sick may struggle to complete daily tasks during Ramadhan. Visiting and assisting them is a highly rewarded act in Islam. The Prophet (SAW) said, “He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our young and respect to our elders” (Sunan Abi Dawood, 4943).Here are some ways you can help the elderly in your community this Ramadhan: Visit elderly relatives or neighbors Assist with shopping, cooking, or errands Spend time with the sick to provide comfort Supporting orphans and needy families: Allah (SWT) highlights the special status of orphans in The Quran when He says, “…and give food—despite their desire for it—to the poor, the orphan, and the captive, saying to themselves, ‘We feed you only for the sake of Allah, seeking neither reward nor thanks from you” (The Clear Quran®, 76:8-9).According to hadith, the Prophet (SAW) also said, “…‘I and the one who cares for an orphan will be in Paradise like this—’, and he held his two fingers together” (Sahih Bukhari, 5304). Here are some ways to help the orphans and needy families this Ramadhan: Donate gently used clothes, food, or money to orphanages Sponsor a child’s education Organize a Ramadhan fundraiser for needy families Cleaning and maintaining mosques: Mosques play a vital role in Ramadhan. Keeping them clean is a form of worship. The Prophet (SAW) praised a woman who cleaned the mosque and even prayed for her after she passed away.Here are some ways you can help keep your masajid clean during Ramadhan: Volunteer to clean prayer areas Provide dates and water to worshippers Organize Taraweeh prayer arrangements Educating and teaching others: Spreading knowledge is one of the best acts of charity. The Quran says, “O believers! When you are told to make room in gatherings, then do so. Allah will make room for you in His grace. And if you are told to rise, then do so. Allah will elevate those of you who are faithful, and raise those gifted with knowledge in rank. And Allah is All-Aware of what you do” (The Clear Quran®, 58:11).Here’s how you can share knowledge this Ramadhan: Teach lessons of Islam through dawah Teach Quran to new Muslims or Muslims Share beneficial Islamic reminders Spread positivity and kindness: Even small gestures, like smiling, have great rewards. The Prophet
Halal social media use and how to avoid “brain rot” in Ramadhan: A guide for Muslim youth
We are well aware that Ramadhan is a month of fasting not just from food and drink, but also from bad habits, distractions, and anything that distances us from Allah (SWT). In today’s world, one of the biggest distractions in social media. We wake up, check our phones. We sit down, scroll through videos. We say we’ll take a “quick break,” and suddenly an hour of our day is gone because we’re still scrolling. But during Ramadhan, every moment is precious. How we use our time matters. Does this mean we should quit social media entirely? Not necessarily. But it does mean we should use it in a way that pleases Allah (SWT), benefits us, and doesn’t waste the blessings of this sacred month. Let’s talk about how we can consume social media in a halal way this Ramadhan, or even take a break from it to fully focus on our faith. Ask yourself, “Is this helping my Ramadhan?” Before you open any app, you must ask yourself: Is this content bringing me closer to Allah (SWT) or distracting me? Am I gaining knowledge, inspiration, or just wasting time? Would I be comfortable watching this if the Prophet (SAW) were next to me? Or more importantly, knowing that Allah (SWT) is watching me? If the answer is no, then it’s probably better to step away. Ramadhan is a time for self-reflection, and social media should support our spiritual growth. Not take away from it. Replace meaningless scrolling with beneficial content Instead of watching random viral videos or mindless content, fill your feed with content that benefits your faith: Follow Islamic reminders (Quran recitations, hadiths, and Ramadhan tips can keep you motivated). Listen to scholars and beneficial lectures (even short clips can boost your imaan). Join online Ramadhan challenges (Quran journaling, daily dua reminders, and charity initiatives can help you stay engaged in worship). Share good reminders (if you post, make it something that spreads khayr to others). By curating your feed, you can turn social media into a tool for worship rather than a source of distraction Avoid haram and time-wasting content Not all content is beneficial, and some things are clearly haram. Be mindful of: Music and inappropriate videos (if it wouldn’t be pleasing to Allah (SWT) outside of Ramadhan, it’s definitely not okay in Ramadhan). Backbiting and gossip (reading or sharing drama, arguments, or rumors online harms your soul). Pointless debates (arguing in comments sections only increases anger and wastes valuable time). Excessive entertainment (funny videos are fine in moderation, but if they take up hours of your day, it’s a problem). Remember, fasting isn’t just about food, it’s also about purifying your heart and actions. Set boundaries for screen time Ramadhan is short, and once it’s gone, we don’t get it back. If social media is taking away from your ibaadah, set limits: Use social media only at certain times (i.e. after Salaah or before iftar, but not during suhoor or Taraweeh). Turn off notifications (constant pings and alerts make it harder to focus on worship). Use screen time limits (many phones have features that help control usage. Take advantage of them at least in this month)! Try a weekend detox (log out for a day or two and see how much more peaceful Ramadhan feels). The goal isn’t to quit social media completely (unless you want to) but to control it instead of letting it control you. If you can, take a social media break Some people find that the best way to stay focused in Ramadhan is to step away from social media entirely. Imagine how much more Quran you could read, how many more duas you could make, and how much closer you could feel to Allah (SWT) without distractions. If you’re up for the challenge, try deleting apps for a week or even the whole month. You’ll be surprised how you feel when you’re no longer tied to your screen. And if that seems too hard, at least cut down on unnecessary usage. Your soul will thank you. We don’t know if we may or may not live to see another Ramadhan. Every moment is a chance to earn rewards, seek forgiveness, and get closer to Jannah. Don’t let social media steal that away. Use it wisely. Use it for good. And if it’s taking you away from Allah (SWT), then it’s time to log off. May Allah (SWT) allow us to use our time wisely and make this Ramadhan our best one yet. Ameen!
10 acts of worship we often overlook in Ramadhan
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.
