10 Things I Love About Ramadan By Firhana Imam

Ramadan, the ninth month on the Islamic calendar, is a month of spiritual and inner power. For Muslims everywhere, it's a month of fasting, reflection, compassion, and rejuvenation with Allah. But Ramadan to me is so much more than abstaining from food and fluids it is soul travel, renewal of purpose, and a powerful reminder of what really counts. Here are 10 things that I absolutely adore about Ramadan, every one of them a treasure that makes this month my favorite of the year.

1. A Deep Spiritual Reset

Ramadan is like the divine restart button. Amidst the chaos of life, it's simple to float spiritually. But during this hallowed month, I find myself being drawn irresistibly towards Allah. The prayer mat comes close to feeling like home. Each sujood becomes richer. Each tear more therapeutic. It's a time when religion feels new and intimate.

2. Qur'an Comes Alive

Though the Qur'an is always with me, in Ramadan, it is heard louder. Its words feel more applicable, more poignant, more intimate. Reciting it post-Suhoor or pondering a verse during Taraweeh puts my heart into a calm I cannot verbalize. I relearn meanings that were previously overlooked, and it is as if the Qur'an is talking directly to me.

3. The Beauty of Suhoor

Rising with the serene quiet of dawn, breakfasting on Suhoor with sleepy eyes, and muttering Duas under the breath before Fajrit's an experience that becomes holy. There is something so intimate and soulful about that time. It's still, unhasty, and permeated with barakah. Suhoor is not merely breakfast for the body; it's nourishment for the soul.

4. Iftar A Celebration of Gratitude

Iftar is magical. The first mouthful of water after fasting for hours is absolute bliss. Dates never taste sweeter. But beyond the food, it's the act of thankfulness that melts my heart reminding myself how blessed we are to be able to eat, belong to a family, and have a faith. Breaking fast with family is one of life's simplest and most wonderful pleasures.

5. Taraweeh Nights

Even if I go into the mosque exhausted, I emerge renewed. Taraweeh is more than a prayer; it's a spiritual rejuvenation. Standing shoulder to shoulder with others, hearing the recitation of the Qur'an, and experiencing the harmony of prayer there's nothing better. The late nights shorten when your soul is occupied.

6. Charity and Generosity

Ramadan makes our hearts more open than any other time. I adore how generous people are neighbors sharing food, strangers donating Zakat, kids collecting coins for the poor. It's such a lovely reminder that giving isn't about riches, but compassion. It's a season when the world is just a little bit kinder.

7. Reconnecting With Family

During Ramadan, eating is no longer just eating. It's about bonding moments. Preparing Suhoor with my mom, having siblings help set the Iftar table, or sharing dates and laughter after Maghrib brings us closer as a unit. These shared moments of prayer and reflection strengthen our relationships.

8. Sense of Global Unity

One of the most beautiful things about Ramadan is knowing that millions of Muslims across the globe are fasting with you. Different time zones, cultures, and cuisines but one shared purpose. This silent unity, this global act of devotion, makes me feel a deep connection to the Ummah.

9. Discipline and Self-Control

Fasting is not about just learning hunger it's a school of self-discipline. Not eating and drinking is one thing, but not acting on anger, gossiping, and vices is the true challenge. And I love that. Ramadan reminds me that I have control over myself, that I can change and be an improved me as a person. That is something that I keep with me even after the month is over.

10. Eid A Happy Reward

Eid is the lovely exclamation point after Ramadan. The morning prayers, the new clothes, the scent of henna, the happy greetings it's a celebration of endurance, of thanksgiving, of togetherness. But above all, it's the payoff for 30 days of trying to be better.

Final Thoughts

Ramadan is not a ritual it's a reawakening. A month when the soul inhales, the heart mellowes, and life pauses to accommodate what's most important. These 10 things I adore about Ramadan are reminders of why this month is so dear to me. Each year, it's as if a beloved visitor has arrived taking me away better than they left me.