Ramadan is the holiest month in Islam, observed by millions of Muslims worldwide. It is a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and devotion to Allah. The significance of Ramadan is deeply rooted in the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Understanding the Quranic verses and Ahadith e Rasool about Ramadan helps us appreciate its spiritual and practical benefits.
In this article, we will explore the divine guidance on Ramadan, focusing on key Quranic verses and authentic Hadiths that highlight its importance, purpose, and rewards.
Quranic Verses About Ramadan
1. The Obligation of Fasting (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183)
Allah commands believers to fast in Ramadan:
“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” (Quran 2:183)
This verse establishes fasting as a divine command and a means of achieving Taqwa (piety and consciousness of Allah). It reminds Muslims that fasting is not just about abstaining from food but also about spiritual purification.
2. Ramadan as the Month of Quran (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185)
“The month of Ramadan [is that] in which the Quran was revealed, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it…” (Quran 2:185)
This verse highlights the connection between Ramadan and the revelation of the Holy Quran. The Quran serves as guidance for humanity, and Ramadan is the ideal time to reconnect with its teachings.
3. The Nearness of Allah During Ramadan (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:186)
“And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me…” (Quran 2:186)
This verse assures believers that Allah is always near, especially during Ramadan. It emphasizes the importance of Dua (supplication) and seeking Allah’s mercy.
4. Permissibility of Eating and Drinking at Night (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:187)
“It has been made permissible for you to be intimate with your wives during the nights of fasting. They are clothing for you, and you are clothing for them…” (Quran 2:187)
This verse provides guidelines about the night-time activities in Ramadan, permitting eating, drinking, and marital relations after Iftar until Suhoor.
Ahadith e Rasool About Ramadan
1. Fasting as a Shield (Sahih Bukhari 1904, Sahih Muslim 1151)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Fasting is a shield; so, the person observing fasting should avoid obscene talk and foolish behavior. If someone fights or argues with him, he should say, ‘I am fasting.’” (Sahih Bukhari 1904)
This Hadith explains that fasting is not just about abstaining from food but also about controlling one’s character and behavior.
2. The Reward of Fasting (Sahih Bukhari 1904, Sahih Muslim 1151)
“Allah says: ‘Fasting is for Me, and I will give reward for it…’” (Sahih Bukhari 1904, Sahih Muslim 1151)
This Hadith highlights that fasting holds a unique reward directly from Allah, greater than any other act of worship.
3. The Gates of Jannah Opened (Sahih Bukhari 1899, Sahih Muslim 1079)
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“When Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the devils are chained.” (Sahih Bukhari 1899)
This Hadith indicates that Ramadan is a blessed time when Allah’s mercy is abundant, making it easier for believers to perform good deeds.
4. Suhoor: The Blessed Meal (Sahih Bukhari 1923, Sahih Muslim 1095)
“Take Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is blessing.” (Sahih Bukhari 1923, Sahih Muslim 1095)
The pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) is encouraged as a source of spiritual and physical nourishment.
5. The Status of Laylatul Qadr (Sahih Bukhari 2014, Sahih Muslim 1165)
“Whoever stands (in prayer) in Laylatul Qadr with faith and expectation (of reward), his past sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari 2014, Sahih Muslim 1165)
Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Decree) is the holiest night of Ramadan, where worship is better than a thousand months.
6. Iftar: The Joy of a Fasting Person (Sahih Bukhari 1904, Sahih Muslim 1151)
“The fasting person has two joys: one when he breaks his fast, and the other when he meets his Lord.” (Sahih Bukhari 1904, Sahih Muslim 1151)
This Hadith emphasizes the happiness and spiritual fulfillment of fasting.
The Importance of Charity in Ramadan
Fasting is not just about abstaining from food but also about helping others. The Prophet (peace be upon him) was the most generous in Ramadan:
“The Messenger of Allah was the most generous of people, and he was even more generous in Ramadan.” (Sahih Bukhari 6)
Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat and Sadaqah (charity) to support the needy during this sacred month.
Conclusion
Ramadan is a time of immense blessings, mercy, and spiritual growth. The Quranic verses and Ahadith e Rasool about Ramadan emphasize fasting as an act of devotion, self-discipline, and closeness to Allah. It is a month of reflection, worship, and increased generosity.
By studying the Quran and Sunnah, we understand the true essence of Ramadan and strive to maximize its benefits. May Allah grant us the strength to observe Ramadan with sincerity and reward us abundantly. Ameen.