Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time when most people focus on setting intentions for Ramadan.
However, setting our intentions before Ramadan starts will help to prepare our minds and hearts for the coming month and also bring more clarity and purpose from the beginning.
This will allow us to enter Ramadan with a sense of readiness and commitment, ensuring that every act of devotion we undertake is anchored in deep seated intention.
As we observe fasting from dawn to sunset, engage in acts of worship, and seek closeness to Allah, it is our intentions that are the driving force behind every action and devotion throughout this sacred month.
We should also acknowledge the importance of setting intentions throughout, not just during Ramadan. By embracing this mindset continuously, each moment becomes an opportunity for us to live with purpose and deepen our emaan.
The Power of Intentions for Ramadan
When we set our intentions for Ramadan, we do it quietly within our hearts, keeping our thoughts and hopes between us and Allah. This is a time for us to be honest with ourselves about why we’re fasting and praying. It’s all for Allah and He is the only one who knows what’s truly in our hearts.
The concept of Ikhlas (sincerity) in Islam, reinforces that our intentions must be pure and exclusively for Allah’s pleasure. A Hadith Qudsi reinforces this, where Allah says
“I am so self sufficient that I am in no need of having an associate. Thus whoever does an action for someone else’s sake as well as Mine will have that action renounced by Me to him whom he associated with Me.” (Hadith Qudsi 19)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) tells us that our actions are valued by the intentions behind them, and everyone will get what they intended.
“Actions are (judged) by motives (niyyah), so each man will have what he intended…” (Bukhari and Muslim)
This means that if our intention to fast in Ramadan is for Allah alone, then that’s what matters most. We don’t need to show off to others. Allah knows the truth of what’s in our hearts.
Embracing Positive Change
As we set our intentions for Ramadan,
- Let us embrace the opportunity for positive change and personal growth.
- Let us aspire to deepen our connection with Allah,
- Seek forgiveness for our shortcomings, and
- Extend kindness and generosity to those around us.
Reflective Preparation
- Contemplate – Take moments to be quiet to think about what you aim to achieve this Ramadan.
- Write It Down – Document your intentions to keep track of your spiritual goals.
- Be Realistic – Set achievable goals that encourage progressive improvement.
- Remain Flexible – Adapt your intentions as circumstances change.
Let’s get ready for Ramadan
Let’s make the most of Ramadan the month of Quran and get ready with real intent and a full heart. It’s time to work on being patient, thankful, and kinder to those around us.
Dont take your intentions for granted, Let it be a powerful step that gets you ready for a rewarding Ramadan. So here’s to starting this journey with honesty and hope, and chasing after Allah’s blessings as we aim to be our best selves.
Ready to enhance your Ramadan experience?
Explore our Ramadan Journal and Planner today and begin your journey towards increasing your emaan. Let’s make this Ramadan truly meaningful and filled with blessings. Start preparing with intention and sincerity now.
