While observing Ramadan, Muslims simultaneously juggle school and work. So, considering this is a time of strict fasting and intense prayer, last-minute preparations might be overwhelming for some families.  

Ramadan celebrates the date in 610 CE when, according to Islamic tradition, the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. As part of the Islamic lunar calendar, Ramadan can either last 29 or 30 days.  

The Quran stresses compassion, mercy and charity during the holy month. So, although largely known for fasting, Ramadan is also a time to abstain from impurities of the body and mind. 

Dr. Rachana Umashankar, a professor specializing in the anthropology of religion and Islam in South Asia, reflects on the importance of spiritual growth during Ramadan.  

“It is considered a time for reflection and spiritual growth,” Dr. Umashankar said. “So Muslims may prepare for Ramadan by pledging to do the fast for the whole month (or to try their best to) and also by resolving to use this month as a spiritual reset.” 

Dr. Amal Alabbad, a professor teaching financial accounting and financial statement analysis, says she tries to achieve the objective of Ramadan before Ramadan actually begins.  

“Purifying oneself is one step toward achieving the goal of fasting in Ramadan,” Dr. Alabbad said. “This could be by reading Quran, fasting a couple of days before Ramadan, being kind to others, etc.”  

Islamic Relief, an independent NGO founded in the United Kingdom that provides emergency and disaster aid, proposes seven ways to prepare for Ramadan for Muslims of every nationality.  

1. Fast Voluntarily: Shabaan, the eighth month of the Islamic calendar, is a prime time to complete one’s missed fasts from last year’s Ramadan. Also, to prepare to fast for a whole month you should start fasting often, to regulate your appetite.  
2. Recite and Reflect Upon the Quran: Reading the Quran with freshened eyes can open the door to new meanings that one can delve further into once Ramadan starts and well after it ends. 
3. Follow the Sunnah and Pray Extra Prayers: To follow in the footsteps of Prophet Muhammed, you must first emulate his actions. *Sunnah refers to the sayings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad and is the second source of knowledge for Muslims. 
4. Repent and Make Dua’a: Prayers of invocations to Allah is considered the highest form of worship in Islam, which should be done at all times, not just during Ramadan.  
5. Give Charity: Helping others betters your spirituality and humanity.  
6. Improve your Character: Working on bettering your positive personality traits redeems your relationship with Allah and will radiate to those around you.  
7. Eat Healthy and Moderately: The food that is eaten before the fast starts and after the fast breaks is necessary to provide the optimal energy so daily tasks and worship can be done without hindrance. 

On April 13, the holiday of Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is usually celebrated to acknowledge the end of fasting and thank Allah for revealing the holy book of the Quran at the near end of Ramadan.  

Even though the pandemic has changed the way Muslims prepare, observe and then celebrate this divine timing, its meaning remains unshaken.