Preparing for Shahr Ramadan

شَهْرُ رَمَضَانَ ٱلَّذِىٓ أُنزِلَ فِيهِ ٱلْقُرْءَانُ هُدًۭى لِّلنَّاسِ وَبَيِّنَـٰتٍۢ مِّنَ ٱلْهُدَىٰ وَٱلْفُرْقَانِ ۚ فَمَن شَهِدَ مِنكُمُ ٱلشَّهْرَ فَلْيَصُمْهُ ۖ

The holy month of Ramaḍan is described by Ahlulbayt as the month of purification, Quran, and divine mercy. Preparation in Shaban determines the level of benefit gained once the month begins.

 

1) Renew niyyah (intention) and set Ramadan goals

Clarify that fasting is for taqarrub (nearness to Allah), not habit or culture.

Set measurable spiritual goals: Quran completion, specific dua, charity targets, character traits to improve, and writing a will.

Reference: “Actions are by intentions” (Hadith; al-Kafi, vol. 2, Bab al-Niyyah).

 

2) Tawbah and clearing sins before the month

Enter Ramadan with repentance so the heart is receptive to guidance.

Seek forgiveness from Allah and reconcile with people (rights of others must be returned).

Reference: Quran 66:8 – “O you who believe! Turn to Allah in sincere repentance.”

Imam Alī: repentance purifies hearts (Nahj al-Balagha, sayings).

 

3) Settle obligations (qada fasts, khums, debts)

Complete missed fasts where possible; plan to fulfil outstanding khums or debts.

Spiritual progress is hindered if obligations remain unpaid.

Reference: Imam al-Ṣadiq: debts and people’s rights impede acceptance of deeds (al-Kafī).

 

4) Increase Quran connection before Ramadan

Begin daily recitation so Ramadan becomes an intensification rather than a sudden start.

Reflect on meanings (tadabbur) and use tafsir.

Reference: Quran 2:185 – “The month of Ramadan is that in which the Quran was revealed.”

 

5) Learn and review Ramadan fiqh (rulings)

Ensure correct fasting rules (invalidators, travel rulings, intention timing, etc.).

Review rulings of your marja (e.g., Sistani, Khamenei).

Reference: Imam al-Baqir: “Knowledge precedes action.” (al-Kafi).

 

6) Prepare a structured worship schedule

Plan time for ṣalah in congregation, Quran, dua (e.g., Dua Iftitaḥ, Abu Ḥamza al-Thumali).

Allocate quiet time for night worship (qiyam), especially in last ten nights.

Reference: Imam al-Ṣadiq: Ramadan nights are for standing in worship (Bihar al-Anwar).

 

7) Gradually discipline the self (tazkiyah)

Reduce sins of tongue, eyes, and behaviour before the month begins.

Practice patience and restraint in Shaban to prepare spiritually.

Reference: Prophet (via Ahl al-Bayt): fasting is a shield from sin (al-Kafi).

 

8) Increase charity and service

Begin giving ṣadaqah regularly; plan Ramadan charity (food drives, zakat al-fiṭrah planning).

Serving others increases acceptance of worship.

Reference: Quran 2:261 (reward for charity); Hadith on generosity in Ramadan (Bihar al-Anwar).

 

9) Strengthen connection with Ahl al-Bayt (ʿa)

Recite salawat frequently and visitations (ziyarah), especially Ziarat Ashura, Aale Yasin and Jamia.

Attend Majalis and community programmes.

Reference: Hadith: “Our Shia are those who… remember us often.” (al-Kafi).

 

10) Improve family and community relations

Resolve conflicts and forgive others before the month begins.

Ramadan rewards are linked to maintaining kinship ties.

Reference: Imam al-Ṣadiq: reconciliation increases provision and lifespan (al-Kafi).

 

11) Prepare physically and mentally

Adjust sleep and diet in Shaban to sustain long fasts and night worship.

Reduce distractions (social media, excessive entertainment).

Reference: Imam Ali: the body has rights; balance strengthens worship (Nahj al-Balagha).

 

12) Study the virtues of Ramaḍān

Read sermons such as the Prophet’s Shaban sermon on Ramadan (widely narrated in Shia sources).

Understanding the month’s status increases motivation and sincerity.

Reference: Sermon of the Prophet on Ramadan (Uyun Akhbar al-Riḍa).

 

13) Make a dua list and spiritual audit

Prepare specific dua for personal growth, community, and global issues.

Conduct self-accounting (muḥasabah) before the month starts.

Reference: Imam Musa al-Kaẓim: “He is not from us who does not take account of himself daily.” (al-Kafi).

 

14) Plan to recite Duas in Arabic and then read and ponder on translations

This will help in deeper thinking on what is being recited and finding action point for yourself, Insha’Allah