The first day of Ramadan: Making the right start

The First Day of Ramadan: Making the Right Start

The first day of Ramadan holds special significance as it sets the tone for the entire month of fasting, worship, and self-discipline. It is a day of renewal, spiritual awakening, and commitment to drawing closer to Allah. A strong and well-prepared start can ensure that one maximizes the blessings and benefits of this sacred month.

Ramadan is not merely about abstaining from food and drink; it is about refining one’s character, strengthening faith, and purifying the soul. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasized the importance of beginning any act of worship with the right intention and preparation. As narrated in a hadith:

“إِنَّمَا الْأَعْمَالُ بِالنِّيَّاتِ، وَإِنَّمَا لِكُلِّ امْرِئٍ مَا نَوَى.”
“Verily, actions are judged by intentions, and each person will have what they intended.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 1; Sahih Muslim, 1907)

This hadith highlights the importance of making a sincere intention (niyyah) for fasting and entering Ramadan with a heart devoted to worship and self-improvement.

In this detailed blog post, we will explore the best ways to prepare for the first day of Ramadan, key actions to take, common mistakes to avoid, and how to ensure a productive and spiritually uplifting start to the holy month.

Preparing Mentally and Spiritually for the First Day of Ramadan

Before Ramadan begins, a believer should prepare both mentally and spiritually to maximize the rewards of fasting. This involves:

 Renewing Intention (Niyyah) with Sincerity

Intention (Niyyah) is the foundation of every act of worship in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ said:

إِنَّمَا الأَعْمَالُ بِالنِّيَّاتِ، وَإِنَّمَا لِكُلِّ امْرِئٍ مَا نَوَى
“Indeed, actions are judged by intentions, and every person will have only what they intended.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

Sincerity in intention is crucial for our deeds to be accepted by Allah ﷻ. Whether fasting, praying, or engaging in any righteous act, we must ensure that our intention is purely for His sake. Allah ﷻ says:

وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ
“And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, being sincere to Him in religion.” (Qur’an 98:5)

Renewing our intention daily protects us from hypocrisy and distractions. Before fasting, we should consciously affirm our purpose: seeking Allah’s pleasure and growing spiritually. Saying in our heart, “I fast for Allah,” is a simple but profound act of devotion.

Regular self-reflection and sincere dua can help maintain pure intentions. The Prophet ﷺ taught:

اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلْ عَمَلِي كُلَّهُ صَالِحًا، وَاجْعَلْهُ لِوَجْهِكَ خَالِصًا
“O Allah, make all my deeds righteous, and make them sincerely for Your Face.” (Al-Nasai)

By continually renewing our Niyyah with sincerity, our worship attains greater depth, bringing us closer to Allah ﷻ.

Making Tawbah (Repentance) Before Ramadan Begins

As Ramadan approaches, believers should purify their hearts through sincere Tawbah (repentance). Allah ﷻ commands:

وَتُوبُوا إِلَى اللَّهِ جَمِيعًا أَيُّهَا الْمُؤْمِنُونَ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُفْلِحُونَ
“And repent to Allah, all of you, O believers, that you may succeed.” (Qur’an 24:31)

Repentance is a prerequisite for a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan. The Prophet ﷺ said:

التَّائِبُ مِنَ الذَّنْبِ كَمَنْ لَا ذَنْبَ لَهُ
“The one who repents from sin is like one who has no sin.” (Ibn Majah)

True Tawbah consists of feeling remorse, ceasing the sin, seeking Allah’s forgiveness, and resolving not to return to it. The Prophet ﷺ would seek forgiveness over 70 times daily (Bukhari).

Before fasting begins, one should cleanse their soul by making heartfelt Istighfar (Astaghfirullah) and mending relationships. A sincere return to Allah ﷻ ensures that Ramadan is a month of true spiritual renewal and closeness to Him.

Strengthening the Connection with the Quran

Ramadan is the month of the Quran, as Allah ﷻ says:

شَهْرُ رَمَضَانَ ٱلَّذِىٓ أُنزِلَ فِيهِ ٱلْقُرْءَانُ هُدًۭى لِّلنَّاسِ وَبَيِّنَٰتٍۭ مِّنَ ٱلْهُدَىٰ وَٱلْفُرْقَانِ
“The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Quran was revealed, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs of guidance and criterion.” (Qur’an 2:185)

This blessed month is the ideal time to renew our relationship with the Quran. The Prophet ﷺ would revise the Quran with Jibreel عليه السلام every Ramadan (Bukhari). To follow his example, we should strive to recite, understand, and reflect on its meanings.

Practical steps include setting daily recitation goals, listening to tafsir, and implementing Quranic teachings in daily life. Allah ﷻ promises:

إِنَّ هَٰذَا ٱلْقُرْءَانَ يَهْدِى لِلَّتِى هِىَ أَقْوَمُ
“Indeed, this Quran guides to that which is most upright.” (Qur’an 17:9)

By dedicating time to the Quran, we transform our hearts and strengthen our faith. Let this Ramadan be a journey of reconnecting with Allah’s words, making them a light in our lives.

Physical and Dietary Preparation for the First Fast

Preparing the body for fasting before Ramadan begins is essential for a smooth transition into this sacred month. Gradually adjusting eating habits, improving hydration, and adopting a balanced diet can help the body adapt to the fasting routine and minimize fatigue or discomfort.

Gradually Adjust Eating Patterns

The sudden shift from multiple meals a day to fasting for long hours can be challenging. A few weeks before Ramadan, one can start reducing snacking between meals and practicing voluntary fasts on Mondays and Thursdays, following the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ. He said:

تُعْرَضُ الأَعْمَالُ يَوْمَ الِاثْنَيْنِ وَالْخَمِيسِ فَأُحِبُّ أَنْ يُعْرَضَ عَمَلِي وَأَنَا صَائِمٌ
“Deeds are presented (to Allah) on Mondays and Thursdays, and I love that my deeds be presented while I am fasting.” (Tirmidhi)

Hydrate Well Before Ramadan

Water intake should be increased in the days leading up to Ramadan. Dehydration can cause headaches and fatigue, so drinking 8–10 glasses of water daily and reducing caffeinated drinks can help the body adjust.

Eat Nutrient-Dense Foods

Eating wholesome meals that provide long-lasting energy is crucial. Foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help sustain energy levels. Protein-rich foods like eggs, lean meats, and legumes also support muscle health during fasting.

Reduce Sugar and Processed Foods

Cutting down on sugary and processed foods before Ramadan helps prevent energy crashes. Instead, opting for natural sources of sugar, such as dates and fruits, allows the body to adjust to healthier alternatives.

By physically and nutritionally preparing for Ramadan, one can ensure a smoother fasting experience and focus more on spiritual growth during this blessed month.

Eating a Nutritious Suhoor

The pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) is highly recommended in Islam:

“تَسَحَّرُوا، فَإِنَّ فِي السَّحُورِ بَرَكَةً.”
“Have Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is blessing.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 1923; Sahih Muslim, 1095)

A good Suhoor includes:

• Slow-digesting foods (oats, whole grains, eggs)
• Hydrating fruits (watermelon, oranges, cucumbers)
• Healthy fats (nuts, avocados)

Avoiding Overeating at Iftar

The Prophet ﷺ advised moderation when breaking the fast:

“مَا مَلَأَ آدَمِيٌّ وِعَاءً شَرًّا مِنْ بَطْنٍ.”
“The son of Adam does not fill any vessel worse than his stomach.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah, 3349)

Starting with dates and water, followed by a balanced meal, prevents sluggishness and discomfort.

Key Acts of Worship on the First Night of Ramadan

The first night of Ramadan holds great significance, setting the tone for the entire month. It is a time to welcome the blessed month with a sense of gratitude and devotion, utilizing this opportunity to establish a strong connection with Allah ﷻ through various acts of worship.

Taraweeh Prayers

The first night of Ramadan is the beginning of Taraweeh, the voluntary prayers performed after Isha. While it is not obligatory, Taraweeh is highly encouraged and was regularly observed by the Prophet ﷺ during Ramadan. He said:

مَن صَامَ رَمَضَانَ إِيمَٰنًا وَحْتِسَابًا غُفِرَ لَهُ مَا تَقَدَّمَ مِن ذَنْبِهِ
“Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, his past sins will be forgiven.” (Bukhari)

Offering Taraweeh prayer helps to spiritually purify the heart and earn great rewards.

Making Dua (Supplication)

The first night of Ramadan is an ideal time to make sincere duas. It is a night when the mercy of Allah ﷻ descends, and He is eager to answer the supplications of His servants. The Prophet ﷺ said:

إِنَّ فِي رَمَضَانَ لَيْلَةً لَا يُوَافِقُهَا عَبْدٌ مُسْلِمٌ يَسْأَلُ اللَّهَ فِيهَا خَيْرًۭا إِلَّا أَعْطَاهُ إِيَّاهُ
“In Ramadan, there is a night that Allah answers the supplications of His servants, and whoever asks for good, Allah grants it to him.” (Bukhari)

Make supplication for personal needs, for the Ummah, and for guidance and strength throughout the month.

Reading and Reflecting on the Quran

Ramadan is the month of the Quran, and its first night should be dedicated to reciting and reflecting upon the words of Allah. As Allah ﷻ mentions in the Quran:

شَهْرُ رَمَضَانَ الَّذِي أُنزِلَ فِيهِ الْقُرْآنُ
“The month of Ramadan is the (month) in which the Quran was revealed.” (Qur’an 2:185)

Spending time with the Quran strengthens the soul and prepares the heart for the fast ahead. It is also a time to set goals for completing the Quran during the month.

Seeking Forgiveness

The first night of Ramadan is an opportunity to seek forgiveness from Allah ﷻ. Reciting Istighfar (Astaghfirullah) and reflecting on past mistakes is crucial for beginning Ramadan with a clean slate. The Prophet ﷺ said:

اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَارْحَمْنِي وَعَافِنِي وَفُكُّ رَقَبَتِي
“O Allah, forgive me, have mercy on me, grant me good health, and free me from my sins.” (Muslim)

Giving Charity (Sadaqah)

The Prophet ﷺ was most generous in Ramadan:

“كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ﷺ أَجْوَدَ النَّاسِ، وَكَانَ أَجْوَدَ مَا يَكُونُ فِي رَمَضَانَ.”
“The Messenger of Allah ﷺ was the most generous of people, and he was most generous in Ramadan.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 6)

Avoiding Common Mistakes on the First Day

The first day of Ramadan is crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the month. Many Muslims make mistakes on this day due to a lack of preparation or understanding. Here are some common errors to avoid:

Overeating at Suhoor and Iftar

Some people overeat, thinking it will sustain them for the long fasting hours. However, eating too much can lead to discomfort, indigestion, and lethargy. The Prophet ﷺ recommended moderation in eating:

مَا مَلأَ آدَمِيٌّ شَرٌّۭا مِّن بَطْنِهِ
“The son of Adam does not fill a worse vessel than his stomach.” (Tirmidhi)

Neglecting Taraweeh

Taraweeh prayers are an essential part of Ramadan worship. Some may skip it due to fatigue or overindulgence at Iftar. Ensure to make time for this prayer as it brings great rewards and spiritual benefit.

Losing Focus on Spirituality

The first day can be physically challenging, but it is vital to keep the focus on spirituality. Avoid distractions, such as excessive social media or unnecessary activities, and spend more time in worship, dua, and reflection.

Forgetting to Renew the Niyyah (Intention)

Many forget to renew their intention (Niyyah) each day for fasting. Without sincere intention, the fast may not be accepted.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can ensure a successful and spiritually enriching start to Ramadan.

Conclusion

The first day of Ramadan is a critical moment that sets the tone for the entire month. It is a time of renewal, discipline, and spiritual awakening. By making the right preparations—both physically and spiritually—we can ensure that we maximize the blessings and rewards of this sacred month.

Starting with a sincere intention (niyyah) to fast for the sake of Allah, seeking His pleasure, and striving for self-improvement are essential. The importance of Suhoor should not be overlooked, as it provides the necessary energy for the day. At Iftar, moderation is key, following the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ by breaking the fast with dates and water before engaging in worship.

Acts of devotion such as Taraweeh prayers, Quran recitation, and sincere du’a should be prioritized, as they enhance our connection with Allah. Avoiding distractions, controlling one’s speech, and engaging in charitable deeds will help in maintaining the true essence of fasting.

By making the right start, we set ourselves on a path of self-discipline, increased faith, and heightened spirituality for the rest of Ramadan. May Allah grant us the strength and sincerity to make the most of this blessed month. Ameen.