Ramadan is around the corner, and you might feel you are not well prepared. This article will help you get ready with essential tips and Arabic phrases for Ramadan.
While Ramadan is a spiritually enriching experience, it also requires careful preparation to make the most of this blessed month while staying physically strong and on top of daily responsibilities.
For that reason, we have brought you this guide to help you prepare physically, mentally, and spiritually for the journey ahead.
Let’s start with information about this holy month, how the date of Ramadan is usually known, and the reason the time of Ramadan could differ from one country to another.
Importance of Ramadan
Ramadan is one of the most sacred months in the Islamic calendar, a time of worship to Allah, reflection, devotion, and community. It is a month when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received the revelation of the holy Quran.
Around 2 Billion Muslims around the world fast from dawn to sunset during Ramadan. They also engage in increased prayer and seek to strengthen their connection with Allah.
When is Ramadan in 2025?
In 2025, Ramadan is expected to begin on February 28th and end on March 30th, depending on the sighting of the moon.
Unlike Gregorian months, Ramadan time changes slightly every year. The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, meaning that months begin with the sighting of the new moon.
Islamic scholars and committees worldwide observe the crescent moon to determine the start of Ramadan. If the moon is not sighted, then the month starts the following day.
Due to differences in moon sighting methodologies and geographical locations, the exact start date of Ramadan may vary from one country to another. Some countries rely on local moon sightings, while others follow the announcement from Saudi Arabia or other central Islamic authorities.
Why Preparation is Important
Proper preparation for Ramadan is essential to make the most of this spiritually rewarding month and to stay healthy the thirty-day period. Here’s how to get ready this year:
Physical Preparation
- Adjusting Eating Habits: You can gradually transition to smaller and healthier meals before Ramadan so you can ease the shift to fasting.
- Hydration: Make sure to drink enough water before and after fasting hours. This helps maintain energy levels and prevents dehydration.
- Reducing Dependence on Caffeine/Sugar: Try to cut back on coffee, tea, and sugary foods in advance to prevent withdrawal symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.
Mental Preparation
- Practicing Mindfulness: It is key to reduce distractions in this precious month, such as excessive screen time or unnecessary engagements. This enhances focus and spiritual connection.
- Managing Work and Responsibilities: It’s a good idea to plan work and daily activities ahead of time, which can help maintain productivity without overwhelming oneself during fasting hours.
Spiritual Preparation
- Setting Faith Goals: Start the month by defining personal spiritual objectives, such as reading the Quran, performing Taraweeh (Ramadan Sunnah Prayers), giving Sadakah, and giving up bad habits. This can help maintain motivation long till the end of the month.
- Developing a Routine for Worship: This month can offer you a great way to stay organized by establishing consistent habits of prayer, dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and charitable acts.
Practical Preparation Steps
In addition to the above preparations, we will give you three practical steps that will assist you fasting Ramadan. These small yet effective steps before Ramadan will make the transition smoother and more rewarding.
Adjust Your Sleep Schedule
Since suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and Fajr prayer require waking up early, adjusting sleep patterns a few weeks or days before Ramadan can prevent fatigue and ensure adequate rest.
Plan for Suhoor & Iftar
It is sometimes difficult to stick to healthy food in Ramadan and that can make fasting tiring. In order to stay light and energetic, make sure to eat healthy food.
For Suhoor, opt for slow-digesting foods like oats, eggs, yogurt, and fruits to stay full longer.
And for Iftar, break the fast with dates and water, followed by balanced meals containing proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
Learn Arabic Phrases for Ramadan
Now, let’s learn Arabic phrases to use during Ramadan to enhance your communication and spiritual experience this Ramadan.
Useful words and phrases to learn in Arabic include many Ramadan greetings, iconic words, and supplications, but we will focus on the following 6 Arabic phrases:
Ramadan Mubarak
رمضان مبارك
Meaning: Blessed Ramadan.
How to use it? A common greeting used to wish others a blessed and fruitful Ramadan. It’s a way to share the joy and blessings of the month.
Ramadan Kareem
رمضان كريم
Meaning: Generous Ramadan.
How to use it? This phrase highlights the generosity and mercy of Allah during Ramadan. It’s often used to wish others a month filled with blessings and forgiveness.
Taqabbal Allahu Minna Wa Minkum
تقبل الله منا ومنكم
Meaning: May Allah accept (our deeds) from us and from you.
How to use it? This is often said during Ramadan and Eid to express the hope that Allah accepts our fasting, prayers, and good deeds
Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
Meaning: In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
How to use it? Say it before starting suhoor or iftar to begin the meal in Allah’s name.
O Allah, I am fasting.
اللهم إني صائم
Meaning: O Allah, I am fasting.
How to use it? This phrase is often recited during suhoor or when someone offers you food during fasting hours. It’s a reminder of your intention to fast for Allah.
Dhahaba al-zama’u wabtallat al-‘urooqu wa thabata al-ajr in sha’ Allah
ذَهَبَ الظّمَأُ وَابْتَلّتِ الْعُرُوقُ وَثَبَتَ الْأَجْرُ إِنْ شَاءَ اللّهُ
Meaning: The thirst is gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is confirmed, if Allah wills.
How to use it? A dua (supplication) often recited when breaking the fast at iftar.
Final word
Start preparing today, and may this Ramadan be a source of immense blessings, growth, and spiritual fulfillment for you and your loved ones.
To help you on your journey, consider downloading the AlifBee App, a fantastic resource for learning essential Arabic phrases and deepening your understanding of Islamic teachings.
Ramadan Mubarak!
