Muslims all across the world eagerly await this time of introspection, devotion, and self-discipline as the holy month of Ramadan draws near.Islam regards Ramadan as a sacred month commemorating the Prophet Muhammad’s receiving of the Quran.

In order to deepen their relationship with Allah and cleanse their souls, believers use this time for fasting, prayer, and charitable deeds.Here are seven must-do items to get ready for Ramadan in advance of this holy month:

1. Renew your intentions

Before the start of Ramadan, renewing your intentions and preparing yourself mentally and spiritually for the month ahead is important. Reflect on the significance of fasting and the goals you hope to achieve during this blessed period. Purify your intentions, seeking Allah’s pleasure and forgiveness in all your actions and deeds.

2. Increase your knowledge

Take time to deepen your understanding of Ramadan by studying its significance, rulings, and etiquette. Attend lectures, read books, or listen to podcasts that discuss the virtues of fasting and the spiritual benefits of Ramadan. Enhancing your knowledge will enrich your experience and help you make the most of this sacred time.

3. Make a Ramadan plan

Prepare a Ramadan plan outlining your goals, objectives, and daily routines. Set realistic targets for Quran recitation, prayers, and acts of charity. Allocate time for spiritual reflection, self-assessment, and supplication. Planning will help you stay organised and focused throughout Ramadan.

4. Start fasting practice

Ease into fasting by practising voluntary fasts in the days leading up to Ramadan. This will help your body adjust to the changes in eating and sleeping patterns and prepare you for the longer fasts ahead. Begin with fasting on Mondays and Thursdays or during the white days of the lunar month to build your stamina and discipline.

5. Seek forgiveness and repentanceTake this opportunity to seek forgiveness for past sins and shortcomings. Engage in sincere repentance and reflection, asking Allah for His mercy and guidance. Perform acts of charity, offer voluntary prayers, and recite istighfar (seeking forgiveness) regularly to cleanse your heart and soul before Ramadan.

6. Purify your environment

Create a conducive environment for spiritual growth and worship by purifying your surroundings. Cleanse your home, workplace, and personal space of distractions and negative influences. Surround yourself with positive reminders of Allah’s presence, such as Quranic verses, dhikr beads, or Islamic artwork.7. Plan for charity and good deeds

Prepare to maximise your charitable giving and good deeds during Ramadan. Set aside funds for zakat, sadaqah, and other forms of charity, and identify worthy causes and organisations to support. Volunteer your time and skills to help those in need through community service, feeding the hungry, or assisting the less fortunate.

The arrival of Ramadan is a time of great anticipation and spiritual preparation for Muslims worldwide. By engaging in these seven essential tasks before Ramadan, you can enter the blessed month with a clear mind, a purified heart, and a steadfast commitment to worship and righteousness