As Muslims, we look forward to Ramadan every year, as it is a month of more blessings and rewards from Allah (swt). Ramadan is not only a time of fasting, but also a time of spiritual purification, self-discipline, and charity. It is a month that teaches us how to live according to the teachings of Islam throughout the year. However, to make the most of this sacred month, we need to be aware of the ramadan guidlines, which are based on the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (saw).
The Prophet Muhammad (saw) said,
“When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of the heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained.”
This means that we have a great opportunity to increase our good deeds, seek forgiveness, and attain paradise. But it also means that we have to be careful not to do anything that would invalidate our fast, reduce our rewards, or incur Allah’s (swt) wrath.
In this article, we will share with you some of the essential guidelines that you should follow while fasting in Ramadan, as well as some of the things that you should avoid. By following these guidelines, you will be able to observe Ramadan with respect, gratitude, and joy, and reap its spiritual fruits.Â
For more insights into Ramadan and its significance, visit Our Knowledge Base blog What is Ramadan and Why is it Important for Muslims?”
Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr
Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr are closely associated with one another in the Islamic calendar and hold great significance both spiritually and communally. It is a holy period during which we fast from dawn to sunset, focusing on spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and increased devotion.Â
Eid-ul-Fitr, on the other hand, marks the joyous culmination of Ramadan and is celebrated as a day of thanksgiving to Allah (swt) for the strength and discipline exhibited during the fasting period. It is a festival characterized by special prayers and festive meals.
For more information on the significance and celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr, you can read our blog post Eid-ul-Fitr.
The Do’s of Ramadan
Ramadan is a sacred month for Muslims worldwide, bringing opportunities for spiritual growth, self-discipline, and deep reflection. Following proper ramadan guidelines ensures that we fully accept the essence of this holy month, maximizing its rewards and blessings. Here are some enriching and fulfilling activities that we can do during the blessed month of Ramadan.
Observing the Fast with Discipline
Fasting is the heart of Ramadan. Do fast from dawn to dusk, abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam and a means of attaining piety, forgiveness, and reward from Allah (swt). Fasting also helps us stress with the needy people of society, and motivates us to be more generous and kind-heartes. Eating in moderation during Suhoor and Iftar is another important aspect of ramadan guidelines, as more consumption opposes the principles of self-control and gratitude that fasting instills.
For more exploration about fasting, you can visit our blog, Fasting: The Third Pillar of Islam.
Maintaining a Strong Connection with Prayer
Prayer is an essential part of Ramadan. Sticking to the five daily prayers is important, but Ramadan gives us a chance to do even more. Taraweeh, the special night prayer, is a beautiful way to connect with Allah (swt). Many people also stay up for Qiyam-ul-Layl, the late-night prayers, especially during the last ten nights of Ramadan.
One of the key Ramadan fasting guidelines is to be mindful in prayer. Take your time, understand what you’re saying, and truly feel the connection with Allah (swt).
Taraweeh is a special form of Qiyam-ul-Layl. To learn more about the significance of Taraweeh prayer during Ramadan, you can explore our blog post: “Taraweeh Prayer in Ramadan.”Â
Reading and Understanding the Quran
Ramadan is the month when the Quran was revealed, so it’s the best time to read and reflect on it. Many people aim to finish the whole Quran during Ramadan, reading a little each day. But if that feels overwhelming, don’t worry—focus on understanding and applying what you read. Even reading a few verses with meaning can be powerful.
Find a quiet moment after prayer or before bed to read and reflect on the Quran. The key is consistency!
To learn more about the benefits and spiritual journey of reciting the Quran during Ramadan, you can explore our blog post: “Benefits of Reciting Quran: A Spiritual Journey.”
Dhikr
Do try to increase your connection with Allah (swt) and purify your hearts and minds with the help of Dhikr-Allah. Dhikr is the remembrance or glorification of Allah (swt) through the repetition of certain phrases or names of Allah (swt) like SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, and Allahu Akbar.
Being Generous and Helping Others
Charity is a big part of Ramadan. Whether it’s giving Zakat (obligatory charity) or Sadaqah (voluntary charity), helping those in need brings more rewards. The Prophet (PBUH) said the best charity is given in Ramadan, so this is the perfect time to share your blessings.
Charity in Ramadan has a greater reward for Muslims, as Hazrat Anas (RA) narrated that the Prophet (saw) asked:Â
Which fast was most virtuous after Ramadan? He said: “Sha’ban in honor of Ramadan” He said: “Which charity is best?” He (pbuh) said: “Charity in Ramadan.”
(Jami` at-Tirmidhi 663)
You don’t have to donate large amounts—small acts of kindness count too. Sharing a meal, helping a neighbor, or even smiling at someone can be a form of charity.
Besides Zakat, Muslims also do Sadaqah, which are extra acts of kindness. To learn more about Islamic charity, you can visit our blog post, “Islamic Charity: Sadaqah, Zakat.”
Seeking Forgiveness
Do seek forgiveness from Allah (swt) and from people whom you have wronged. Forgiveness is one of the main themes of Ramadan, as it is the month of mercy and pardon for Muslims. Allah (swt) forgives all the sins of those who sincerely repent and ask for His forgiveness.Â
The best way of seeking forgiveness is by doing Istighfar. The Prophet (saw) said:
“Whoever observes fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 38)Â
Likewise, we should also forgive those who have wronged us and clear our hearts from hatred and resentment.
Reflection and Self-Improvement
Do try to control your Nafs and improve yourselves, along with fasting in Ramadan. When we fast, we learn self-control and become more mindful, which helps us to examine our actions and motives. We try to grow spiritually, personally, and morally, and to become better people. Ramadan is a time of change for Muslims, where we practice virtues like patience, gratitude, and compassion.
For more information about self-control, you can visit our blog post How to control Nafs?
Don’ts of Ramadan
Ramadan is not just about fasting from food and drink—it’s about improving ourselves, strengthening our faith, and avoiding bad habits. To make the most of this blessed month, we need to follow the right Ramadan guidelines and stay away from things that can reduce our rewards. Here’s what to avoid during Ramadan.
Avoiding Fasting without Valid Reason
Fasting in Ramadan is a big part of our faith, and unless you have a valid (sharia) reason—like illness, pregnancy, or traveling—you should not skip it. Fasting teaches us patience, self-control, and gratitude, and missing it without a good reason takes away from the experience. If you have to miss a fast for a valid reason, Islam allows you to make it up later.
Avoid Easting Publicly
Even if you are not fasting, it’s important to respect those who are. Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours can be seen as disrespectful. If you are unable to fast, you should eat privately and, if required, make up your fasts later. Ramadan is about consideration and unity, so being mindful of others is key.
Engaging in Negative Speech
Ramadan isn’t just about controlling our hunger—it’s also about controlling our words. Gossiping, lying, backbiting, and arguing can take away the rewards of fasting. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that if we don’t give up bad speech and behavior, our fasting has little meaning. If you find yourself in an argument, a great way to stop it is by calmly saying, “I am fasting.” This helps remind both yourself and the other person to stay patient.
The Prophet (saw) said:Â
“Whoever does not give up false statements (i.e. telling lies), and evil deeds, and speaking bad words to others, Allah is not in need of his (fasting) leaving his food and drink.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 6057)Â
We should also avoid any kind of argument, quarrel, or violence, and instead be peaceful, gentle, and kind.
Wasting Time on Entertainment
Ramadan is a short month, and it’s meant to be a time of worship and self-improvement. Spending too much time on social media, TV, or video games takes away from that purpose. Instead, try to use your time wisely—read the Quran, pray, help someone in need, or learn something new about Islam. It’s okay to relax, but Ramadan is a great chance to build good habits that last even after the month is over.
You can read more about how Shaitan traps people and the five ways to defeat Shaitan effectively.Â
Overeating at Suhoor and Iftar
It’s tempting to eat a lot after a long day of fasting, but overeating can make you feel lazy and uncomfortable, making it harder to focus on prayer and worship. The best way to enjoy Iftar and Suhoor is to eat in moderation, choosing healthy foods that give you energy without making you feel too full.
The Prophet (saw) said:
“Eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.”
(Quran 7:31)
By being moderate in our intake, we can practice self-control and gratitude for the blessings that Allah (Swt) has given us. This way, we can nourish our bodies and souls in a balanced manner during this holy month.
Ignoring Family Responsibilities
Don’t neglect your family, friends, and neighbors. Ramadan is a time for togetherness. It’s important to spend time with family, friends, and neighbors, whether it’s sharing Iftar, praying together, or simply checking in on them. Ignoring family or failing to support those around us goes against the spirit of Ramadan. Being kind and present with loved ones makes the month even more meaningful.
Keytake Away
Ramadan is a time to reset our hearts, improve our character, and get closer to Allah (SWT). By avoiding bad habits and distractions, we can truly focus on what matters. Follow these Ramadan guidelines, stay patient, be kind, and make this month one of growth and blessings.
May Allah (swt) accept our fasting, prayers, and good deeds, and make us among the successful ones in this life and the hereafter—Ameen!
Last Updated on January 30, 2025 by Fatima Rafique
