تحضير رمضان: العبادة

Ramadan Preparation: Worship

Preparing for Ramadan involves physical, spiritual, and emotional preparations. While the physical aspect of preparation includes getting the body ready through diet and exercise, the spiritual preparation is all about strengthening one's relationship with Allah through acts of worship. In this section, we will explore the key aspects of worship during the holy month of Ramadan.

Fasting

One of the main pillars of Islam is fasting during Ramadan. Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and sexual relations from dawn until sunset. This act of worship helps individuals develop self-discipline, patience, and empathy towards those who are less fortunate. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of sharing one's blessings with others.

Sehri & Iftar

The pre-dawn meal before fasting is called sehri, while the evening meal when fasting ends is known as iftar. These meals are times for family gatherings where people share their experiences of the day and break their fast together. During these meals, Muslims often recite special prayers and duas seeking Allah's forgiveness and blessings.

Prayers

Muslims perform five daily prayers throughout the year, but during Ramadan, they aim to enhance their prayer experience by performing them more frequently and with greater devotion. Some common practices include:

• Taraweeh prayers: Additional nightly prayers performed after the regular Isha salat in Ramadan. They consist of 20 units (rakats) and usually begin shortly after Magrib prayer until midnight.
• Qiyam or Night Vigil prayers: Early morning optional congregational prayers held in mosques between the last two Raka’ts of Tashriq Salat. This practice commemorates the battle of Hunayn fought by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
• Eid al-Fitr prayers: Special Eid prayers offered just after sunrise on Eid-ul-Fitr, marks the end of the Ramadan month.

Zakat Al-Fitr

Zakat Al-Fitr is a form of charity given by every Muslim adult, male or female, who has the necessary nisab (minimum wealth required for zakatable assets) at the beginning of Ramadan. A fixed amount per person is given from the household members, which can range anywhere from $5 to $10 depending on local customs. This contribution provides sustenance for needy families within the community and ensures they too can celebrate Eid al-Fitr.

Dua & Supplication

During Ramadan, Muslims seek Allah's blessings through various forms of supplications and prayers. Duas for overall wellbeing, good health, guidance, forgiveness, and protection from the negative traits are some common supplications recited during this month. There are also specific duas for sehri, iftar, and other occasions in Ramadan.

Charity & Voluntary Work

Ramadan is a time for enhancing good character, acts of kindness, and generosity. Muslims are encouraged to increase their voluntary charity work, such as providing food, clothing, and financial assistance to the less fortunate. Many Muslims also take part in community service activities, like organizing iftar programs for the homeless, elderly, and refugees.

Repentance & Forgiveness

Ramadan offers a unique opportunity for self-reflection and repentance. Muslims are encouraged to seek forgiveness from Allah and others for any wrong they may have done. This practice helps foster a spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation within families, communities, and society at large.

In conclusion, preparing for Ramadan requires both physical and spiritual refinement. By engaging in acts of worship such as fasting, additional prayers, charitable giving, repentance, and other supplications, Muslims can deepen their connection with Allah and experience the true essence of this blessed month.