The importance of Ramadan in Islam
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic year, which Allah has declared as the month of mercy, forgiveness and salvation. This is the month in which the Quran was revealed and fasting was made obligatory.
Allah says in the Quran: “The month of Ramadan is that in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong).”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 185)
This verse shows that one of the great virtues of Ramadan is that in this month, Allah revealed the Holy Quran, which is a source of guidance for all humanity.
Allah says in the Quran: “O you who have believed, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain piety.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 183)
This verse shows that fasting is not just about enduring hunger and thirst, but its real purpose is to attain piety, which is the highest level of faith.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “When Ramadan comes, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.”
(Sahih Bukhari 1899)
This hadith shows that Ramadan is a month in which the doors of good deeds are opened, the paths of sins are closed, and the devils are imprisoned so that Muslims are inclined towards more good deeds.
Allah says in the Quran, "Indeed, We sent it down on Laylat al-Qadr, and what will make you know what Laylat al-Qadr is? Laylat al-Qadr is better than a thousand months."
(Surah al-Qadr, verses 1-3)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever stands in prayer during Laylat al-Qadr out of faith and in the hope of reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 1901, Sahih Muslim, 760)
There are two joys for the fasting person: one joy at the time of breaking the fast and the other when he meets his Lord.
Deeds and blessings of Ramadan:
- Fasting during Ramadan is obligatory, which purifies a person not only physically but also spiritually.
- The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts during Ramadan out of faith and in the hope of reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari 2008)
- There is great virtue in performing I'tikaf during the last ten days of Ramadan, and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to organize it every year.
- Giving charity in Ramadan is very good, as Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was the most generous of people, and his generosity increased the most during Ramadan. (Sahih Muslim 2308)