Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and it is considered a special month for Muslims all around the world. Here are 7 reasons why Ramadan is so special according to the Quran and Hadith:
- Quran was revealed in Ramadan: The Quran, the sacred and noble book of Islam, was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam – peace be upon him) in the month of Ramadan. The revelation of the Quran is mentioned in several verses of the Quran, such as Surah Al-Qadr, which states: “Verily, We have sent it (the Quran) down in the Night of Al-Qadr” (Quran 97:1).
- Fasting is prescribed in Ramadan: Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and it is mandatory for all adult Muslims (excluding those who are sick or travelling). The Quran states: “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).
- Increased rewards for good deeds: In Ramadan, the rewards for good deeds are multiplied. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam – peace be upon him) said, “Whoever observes fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven” (Sahih Bukhari).
- Night of Decree: The Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr) is a special night in the last ten days of Ramadan, which is considered to be better than a thousand months. The Quran states: “The Night of Al-Qadr is better than a thousand months” (Quran 97:3).
- It promotes self-discipline and self-control: Fasting during Ramadan promotes self-discipline and self-control, which are essential qualities in Islam.
- It fosters community spirit: Ramadan is a time for Muslims to come together and share meals, perform prayers, and engage in acts of charity. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam – peace be upon him) said, “He who gives food for a fasting person to break his fast, he will receive the same reward as him, except that nothing will be reduced from the fasting person’s reward” (Sunan Ibn Majah).
- It is a time for spiritual reflection: Ramadan is a time for Muslims to reflect on their relationship with Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam – 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).
In summary, Ramadan is a special month for Muslims because it commemorates the revelation of the Quran, provides them the opportunity to make Dua asking Allah for His blessings and forgiveness, it is a time of increased rewards for good deeds, it promotes self-discipline and community spirit, and it is a time for spiritual reflection and seeking forgiveness.
