Ramadhan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar holds the esteemed position as the only among the twelve months acknowledged by name in the Quran. And this special reference is in its significance as the month in which the Quran was revealed.

This makes it a special month in which a believer should take advantage to reflect upon the significance of his faith, fortify his devotion and generally improve upon his piety.

Sheikh Mohammed Khalifa, the Organising Secretary of the Council of Imams and Preachers in Kenya (CIPK), says that the Quran, coupled with the Holy month of Ramadhan, will play a significant role in admitting individuals into paradise.

“Fasting and the Quran will intercede for the servant on the day of resurrection,”he quotes the Hadith. 

The Sheikh reiterates that the central purpose of fasting is achieving Taqwa, or God-consciousness. He says fasting is more than abstaining from food and drink; it is a holistic approach to spiritual and moral rejuvenation that prepares believers to deepen their relationship with Allah.

“During Ramadhan, we recite and reflect upon the Quran, enhancing our understanding of its teachings,” Khalifa says.

This connection between the Quran and Ramadhan is further emphasized in the ayat, which states:

“The month of Ramadhan in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion.”

“Surely in the Messenger of Allah is an excellent example for you. This being the basis for which we are obligated to take him as our role model if we wish to please Allah and attain success in this world and the hereafter,” the Quran notes.

Among the most important practices the prophet used to implement is the recitation of the Quran.

Sheikh Khalifa says that it is reported that the Prophet during Ramadhan used to live with the Quran. His days and nights were spent with the Quran.

“The prophet used to meet with Angel Jibril every single night of Ramadhan and he would study the Quran with him as is narrated by Ibn Abbas.

The scholar therefore says that it is recommended that Muslims should read the Quran more during the holy month than any other time,“especially at night which is recommended in line with prophetic practice, even though recitation during the day is also encouraged as the entire month is a month of the Quran.”

Scholars say that recitation should be followed by a deep study with contemplation and pondering over the meanings of the Quran.

It is reported that renowned scholar of Hadith Imam Malik bin Anas said that during the month of Ramadhan, he would take a break from gatherings to dedicate his time to recitation of the Quran.

Khalifa notes that the observance of Ramadhan offers a multitude of benefits beyond the spiritual realm, all of which are enhanced by the piety of Quran recitation.

Fasting fosters a sense of community and compassion. When Muslims fast, they experience hunger and thirst, which cultivates empathy for those less fortunate. This shared experience encourages acts of charity and social support, aligning with the prophetic tradition where the Prophet said:

“The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others.”

Moreover, fasting, when correctly observed according to teachings in the Quran and the Hadith has numerous health benefits, both mental and physical.

“When practiced correctly, fasting should lead to improved metabolism, enhanced mental clarity, and a stronger immune system,” many scholars have been quoted as saying.

Ramadhan is a comprehensive journey toward self-improvement.