- Ramadan is a month of fasting, prayer, and community bonding. Are you observing it the right way?
- Understanding the key rules helps you maximise blessings in this holy month
- Here are some dos and don'ts you should know about fasting in the month of Ramadan
Ramadan is a sacred month in Islam, marked by fasting, prayer, reflection, and acts of kindness.
It is observed with deep spiritual devotion, community bonding, and cultural traditions.
However, to fully benefit from the blessings of the month, it’s important to understand the dos and don’ts that guide fasting and general conduct during this period.
Whether you are fasting for spiritual reasons or supporting those who are, this article will help you navigate Ramadan in a way that aligns with Islamic teachings and Nigerian cultural practices.
Dos during Ramadan
1. Observe the five daily prayers and increase worship
Ramadan is a time to strengthen your relationship with Allah through prayer and devotion.
In addition to the five daily prayers, Muslims are encouraged to observe Taraweeh (extra night prayers), recite the Quran, and engage in other acts of worship.
Many mosques across the country organise special Ramadan programmes, including Tafsir (Quranic interpretation) and Qiyam-ul-Layl (late-night prayers).
Participating in these helps you grow spiritually and connect with the community.
2. Eat Suhoor (Pre-dawn meal) and break your fast with dates
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged eating Suhoor because it provides energy for the long hours of fasting. Likewise, breaking fast with dates and water, followed by a nutritious meal, is highly recommended.
Suhoor can include foods like pap (ogi) with akara, moi moi, or whole grains to provide lasting energy. For Iftar, jollof rice, fruits, kunu, or zobo can be great additions.
3. Give to the less privileged (Sadaqah & Zakat)
Ramadan is a month of generosity. Giving charity, either through food, money, or assistance, is highly rewarded.
Many organisations and mosques organise food drives. You can donate cooked meals, and staple foods like rice and beans, or volunteer in community feeding programmes.
4. Show good character and patience
Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food but also from negative behaviours. Muslims are encouraged to be patient, kind, and forgiving.
Whether in traffic, markets, or work, avoid unnecessary arguments and conflicts. Patience and humility define the spirit of Ramadan.
5. Maintain proper hygiene and self-care
Staying clean is an important aspect of Islamic teachings. Bathing, brushing, and using miswak (tooth-stick) or toothpaste during the day is allowed, as long as you do not swallow water.
The hot weather can also make fasting challenging.
Staying hydrated before Suhoor and after Iftar, wearing light clothing, and maintaining personal hygiene can make fasting more comfortable.
6. Make lots of du’a (Supplication)
Ramadan is the best time to seek Allah’s blessings, forgiveness, and guidance. Du’as are most accepted during fasting and at the time of breaking the fast.
You can follow different platforms on social media and radio that share daily Ramadan du’as to enrich your spiritual experience.
Don’ts during Ramadan
1. Avoid eating or drinking in public
Out of respect for those fasting, it is advisable not to eat or drink openly, even if you are not fasting due to health reasons.
If you are travelling or working in a mixed environment, be mindful and discreet about eating in public spaces.
2. Don’t use foul language or engage in gossip
Backbiting, lying, and using harsh words contradict the essence of fasting. Ramadan is a time to purify the tongue and soul.
Avoid office gossip, social media rants, or negative talk, instead, use the time to reflect and engage in positive conversations.
3. Don’t miss Suhoor or delay breaking fast
Skipping Suhoor can leave you feeling weak during the day, and delaying iftar unnecessarily is discouraged in Islam.
Always plan ahead by setting an alarm for Suhoor and keeping dates and water close by so you can break your fast immediately at Maghrib.
4. Don’t overeat at iftar
After long hours of fasting, it can be tempting to overindulge, but moderation is key. Overeating can lead to discomfort and sluggishness during night prayers.
Start with dates and water, followed by light foods like fruits or soups, before eating heavier meals like rice or swallow.
5. Don’t be lazy or waste time on unproductive activities
Ramadan is a time for spiritual growth, not idleness. Watching excessive TV, scrolling through social media for hours, or engaging in non-beneficial activities can reduce your rewards.
Utilise your free time for beneficial activities like listening to Islamic lectures, reading books, or volunteering. Many Nigerian TV stations and radio channels broadcast special Ramadan programmes.
6. Don’t engage in intimate relations during fasting hours
Married couples should avoid physical intimacy during the day. However, intimacy is allowed after breaking the fast at night.
If you are newly married, seek guidance from Islamic scholars on maintaining a healthy balance between fasting and marital obligations.
Ramadan is a unique experience filled with communal prayers, delicious food, and acts of kindness.
However, beyond traditions, the true essence of Ramadan lies in self-discipline, spiritual growth, and generosity.
By observing these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your Ramadan is fulfilling, rewarding, and spiritually uplifting.
May this Ramadan bring peace, blessings, and prosperity to you and your loved ones.
Ramadan Kareem!
Southwestern Muslim leaders set Ramadan start date independently, dumps Sultan’s tradition
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the League of Imams and Alfas in the South West has declared that Ramadan 1446 AH (2025) will commence on Saturday, March 1.
According to a communiqué issued by the Grand Mufti’s Office, the decision is based on precise astronomical calculations and resolutions from leading Islamic councils and international conferences, including those held in Istanbul, Paris, and within the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).