With their growing minds and bodies, fasting is a big achievement for kids!
Even if they’re trying half-day fasts, each day they try helps them immensely. Not only to prepare them for a full month of fasting when they’re older, but it also allows them to appreciate the blessings Allah (SWT) brings them every day.
You can help keep track of their progress with a Fasting Chart (such as the one from the booklet below). Kids can circle, colour in, or tick a section of the chart with each day they try to fast.
To make it more exciting for kids, add a small reward system. By stickers or special treats for completing multiple fasts. This encourages them to stay motivated and build a connection with Ramadan.
Learn and Practice Sunnahs Every Day
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught us many beautiful daily habits, and Ramadan is the perfect time for kids to learn them.
Some simple Sunnahs kids can practice include:
Saying Bismillah before eating
Drinking in three sips while sitting
Sleeping on their right side
Helping family members with chores
Each day, they can try a new Sunnah and mark it in a journal (like the activity booklet). This turns learning into a fun and rewarding experience!
Build a Sadaqah Box and Give to Charity
Teaching kids about charity from a young age helps develop kindness and generosity. To help motivate your kids to collect money for charity, help them make their own Sadaqah Box!
If you don’t know where to start, you can download the Kids’ Activity Book to access a sadaqah box template or decorate an empty tissue box.
Throughout Ramadan, your kids can add small donations each day. By Eid, they can give the collected amount to those in need.
Solve Ramadan-Themed Puzzles and Word Games
Kids love challenges, and crossword puzzles, word searches, and spot-the-difference games based on Ramadan themes can be the perfect way to keep them engaged while learning key Islamic concepts.
For example, within the Ramadan Kids’ Activity Book, the Ramadan Crossword teaches words like fasting, Quran, and Eid, while the word search encourages kids to find meaningful Ramadan-related words. These are great for quiet moments, especially before iftar or after Taraweeh.
Get Creative with Islamic Colouring Pages
Kids can learn about the importance of these significant symbols in Islam while colouring, making it a great educational and creative activity.
The “Make It Beautiful” section of the Kids’ Activity booklet features colouring pages of Masjid Al-Haram, Masjid An-Nabawi, and Masjid Al-Aqsa. As your children colour, you can discuss the significance of these holy places in Islam.
Visit the Mosque and Find Your Way
Taking kids to the mosque, especially during Ramadan, helps them experience the beauty of community prayers.
The Ramadan Kids’ Activity Booklet includes a “Find Your Way to the Mosque” maze, where kids navigate a path while avoiding distractions.
This activity teaches an important lesson—staying focused on worship during Ramadan. You can also use this as a conversation starter about the importance of prayer and attending the mosque.
Prepare for Eid with DIY Crafts
As Ramadan comes to an end, the time for Eid celebrations begins! A good way to get kids excited for the big day is with Eid decorations.
Whether you buy some or make your own, having decorations for Eid al-Fitr encourages an environment that shares happiness and blessings with others.
The Ramadan Kids Activity Booklet includes DIY lanterns and Eid cards kids can cut out, colour and give to their loved ones, making this Eid extra special.
Enjoy a Fun Ramadan with Your Children
Ramadan is a time for kids to learn, grow, and engage in fun activities that strengthen their faith and character.
With this love and appreciation for Ramadan that they carry on as they get older, it’ll be something they can pass on to the next generation too, creating a beautiful cycle.
The Ramadan Activity Booklet is one of the many amazing ways to keep your kids engaged and motivated to learn about Islam.
Encourage your kids to complete the activities in the booklet and make this Ramadan a memorable one!
Get the Ramadan Journal
How do you make the most of Ramadan? For the most blessed time of the year, here’s a daily planner to help you stay organised.
Reciting the Qur’an from cover to cover is a goal many of us have, especially during the month of Ramadan. After all, the Qur’an was revealed in this blessed month and is a focal point for Muslims. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said,
“You will not come back to Allah with anything better than that which came from Him, i.e. the Qur’an.”
Mastadrik al-Hakim
The Significance of the Qur’an (Quran) During Ramadan
Ramadan is known as the month of the Qur’an (Quran). For it was in this blessed month that Allah (SWT) gave us the revelation of this Holy Book.
“It was in the month of Ramadan that the Quran was revealed as guidance for mankind, clear messages giving guidance and distinguishing between right and wrong.“
Al Baqarah, 2:185
Many hadith also report how the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) would emphasise the importance of the Qur’an. How we should nurture our relationship with it. How makes us more beloved to Allah (SWT), earning us protection from the Fire and rewards for this life and the Hereafter.
“Recite the Qur’an, for on the Day of Resurrection it will come as an intercessor for those who recite It.”
Sahih Muslim
“One who is proficient in reciting the Qur’an is associated with the noble, pious (angel) scribes. As for he who stammers when reciting the Qur’an and find it difficult for him, he will be granted a double reward.”
Al-Bukhari and Muslim
With thirty blessed days in the month, completing an entire recitation of the Quran is a common goal that many of us aim towards. Some years, we make it happen and some we lose momentum midway. Life happens, exhaustion sets in and sometimes there is just simply too much going on, but Insha Allah there are rewards for even an intention.
Here are some tried and tested tips that may help with completing your Qur’an this month.
Start with the right intentions.
Completing recitation of the whole Qur’an
Make an intention for Allah (SWT) to instil sincerity in us before beginning. When our actions are solely for the pleasure of Allah (SWT), He will grant us the strength and motivation to complete our goals.
Umar ibn AL-Khattab (RA) reported that the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Verily, actions are by intentions and every person will attain what they have intended for.”
Al-Bukhari and Muslim
Devise a reading schedule.
For the majority of us, the easiest schedule to follow is using the five daily prayers as allocated reading times. We are already in a state of wudhu; it’s like killing two birds with one stone.
Divide your Qur’an and figure out how many pages you need to recite at every prayer in order to complete your Qur’an… And we’ve already done the math for you:
5 daily Salah X 4 pages of Qur’an = 20 pages a day
20 pages = 1 Juz
1 Juz X 30 days of Ramadan = 30 Juz !!
Other strategies to follow are:
Read 2 pages before each obligatory prayer, and 2 pages after
Read 5 pages in the morning, noon, afternoon, and night
Read 10 pages in the morning and in the evening
For women who may have missed days of fasting, a schedule of 20 – 25 days can be set up. Rather than trying to catch up on those missed days, an extra few pages of Qur’an at allocated times.
These may be schedules that do not work for you, and that is okay, find one that does. However, it is important to allocate areas of your day that are solely for the recitation of the Qur’an. Write it down and keep track of it so that you can hold yourself accountable.
Recite with your favourite reciter
We are blessed with many Haafidh who recite the Qur’an beautifully – Subhanallah!
Pro Tip: Find a reciter who doesn’t read at such a fast pace – a slower pace will make for easier following.
The Translation
Reading the Translation of the Qur’an will not only help you understand the Qur’an and form a deeper connection with the words and essence of the Qur’an.
You may even pick up some Arabic along the way and strengthen your Arabic fluency!
Team up with friends
Create a WhatsApp group or team up with a friend who will keep you in check and keep you motivated. Check-in with each other before every Salah and if you or the other person is feeling demotivated you can be there for each other
And the Reward is with Allah!
When you feel like you cannot keep up remember the reward is 10x for every letter recited and during Ramadan this is multiplied by 70! That’s a Math sum right there – All we know is that there is a great reward!
May Allah allow us to benefit from the blessed month, keep our intentions sincere and allow the Qur’an to enter our hearts – Ameen!
Get Ramadan Ready
How do you make the most of Ramadan? For the most blessed time of the year, visit our one-stop shop for resources to help you stay organised.
Balancing school and Ramadan can be challenging, especially when managing fasting, prayers, and assignments all at once.
The key to a successful Ramadan while keeping up with school is having a solid routine. With a little planning, you can stay energised, keep up with your studies, and make the most of this blessed month.
Whether you write your plan down in a physical or digital planner. Here’s how to build the ultimate school-friendly Ramadan routine.
Plan Your Suhoor for Energy and Focus
Skipping suhoor might seem tempting, but having a nutritious meal before you start fasting is essential. It helps with staying focused in school by keeping you energised throughout the day.
Set yourself an alarm at least 30 minutes before Fajr (when fasting starts) to give yourself enough time to eat, pray, and start the day feeling refreshed. Placing the alarm across the room can make getting out of bed easier.
When it comes to preparing your suhoor meal, the best kinds of energy-boosting foods are whole grains, fruits, and protein (tofu, chicken, etc.) to keep you going throughout the day. You can also plan out your meals in a journal.
If you’re used to eating your favourite cereal or leftover food for breakfast, try to make them more filling. Eat your cereal with fruits and Greek yoghurt, or have leftovers with added protein and vegetables. Also, don’t forget to drink plenty of water!
Stay Productive During Ramadan on School Days
Fasting can sometimes make it difficult to concentrate in class, so here are a few strategies to help you maintain focus.
First, figure out when your energy levels are at their peak. Because of suhoor, you’ll likely have the most energy in the morning. Or, if you’re a night owl, you might have peak energy levels after iftar.
If you can stay up after Fajr, use this time to get ahead on schoolwork—review notes, start an assignment, or do some quick studying before school. If you prefer to sleep in, try to take 10-15 minutes after Fajr for a quick revision session. You can also use this time for spiritual reflection, such as dhikr, dua, or Quran reading.
During school, try to minimise distractions by setting a screen time limit or blocking certain apps on your phone. With Ramadan being a month filled with many opportunities for rewards, you can maximise your time by using your break times at school for quiet reflection, dhikr, or reviewing Quran verses.
After iftar, between Maghrib and Taraweeh, plan your study schedule or start an assignment early. This way, you can use the time after Taraweeh to unwind and focus on your spiritual goals. Even working on something small for 10-15 minutes can make a difference. Then, start winding down for bed so you can wake up early for suhoor feeling refreshed.
Balance Your Ramadan Worship, School, and Extracurricular Activities
Fasting while managing school, worship, and extracurricular activities can be challenging, but, with the right approach, you can stay engaged while maintaining your energy.
If you’re involved in sports, it’s important to listen to your body. If you start feeling lightheaded or exhausted, take a break or ask your coach for modifications. Instead of high-intensity drills, focus on stretching, technique, or skill-based activities.
Staying hydrated is also essential, so drink plenty of water at suhoor and iftar. For harder training, consider scheduling it after iftar when you feel more energised. Talking to your coach about Ramadan will also help them understand your needs so they can make necessary accommodations.
If you’re involved in other extracurricular activities like debate teams, clubs, or prefects duty, prioritise essential tasks and temporarily step back from taking on extra work. This can help create more space for worship and schoolwork. You can also use downtime during meetings or rehearsals for quiet reflection, like dhikr.
All in all, if you need to be part of an event that requires significant energy or late hours, communicate with teachers or leaders about possible adjustments during Ramadan.
Nap Smartly to Avoid Burnout
Fasting, school, and late-night prayers can leave you feeling drained. If you’re exhausted after a long school day, a short nap can help restore energy without disrupting your night’s sleep.
Try to keep naps between 20 to 30 minutes. This helps you avoid feeling groggy afterward.
It’s also best to time naps for after school but before Asr prayer to maintain a balanced schedule. If you’re able to nap in school, try to find a quiet spot during your break times (preferably just before or after Dhuhr time) to snooze.
Maximise Your Iftar and Evening Routine
After a long day of fasting and school, the evening is the best time to refuel and refocus on worship.
Break your fast with dates and water, following the Sunnah, before having a balanced meal.
Plan your evening schedule to prioritise Maghrib, Isha, and Taraweeh. If possible, encourage or join your family to pray at the mosque to maximise your Ramadan experiences.
After iftar is also the best time to take time away from your social media and engage in ibadah (acts of worship). This can include reading Quran, more dhikr, or spending time with family reflecting on Ramadan.
Having a checkbox list (you can make one in your planner or journal for Ramadan) on hand can help keep track of your Quran progress, Taraweeh, dhikr, and more, helping you stay motivated to do them daily.
After you’re done with your evening activities, wind down for bed so you can get up early for suhoor. Aim for at least 6-8 hours of sleep each night, as this can help keep your energy levels going throughout Ramadan.
Stay Consistent and Flexible
Not every day will go according to plan, and that’s okay. Adjust your routine when needed, especially during exam periods or school events. Keeping a record of the changes in your planner can also make things less overwhelming.
If you have trouble focusing on ibadah during school days, make the most of weekends instead. Whether it’s through Quran recitation or getting involved in community, make the intention to do it for the sake of Allah (SWT) and you’ll go far.
In turn, if you miss a goal on one day, it’s okay, don’t get discouraged. Refocus and try again the next. Ramadan is about progress, not perfection.
As the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Take up good deeds only as much as you are able, for the best deeds are those done regularly even if they are few.”
Sunan Ibn Majah
Build a Routine That Works for You
Balancing school and Ramadan is definitely not easy, but it’s possible with a well-structured routine and a focused mindset.
By planning around prayer times, managing school hours wisely, and dedicating specific times for ibadah, you can have a fulfilling Ramadan without falling behind on your studies.
The Ramadan Activity Booklet is a great tool to help stay on track. Using the habit tracker, word searches, and prayer checklists can keep motivation high throughout the month.
Get the Ramadan Journal
How do you make the most of Ramadan? For the most blessed time of the year, here’s a daily planner to help you stay organised.
Ramadan is a time of reflection and making the most of its many blessings. However, with our busy schedules, it can be hard to stay on track with our spiritual goals for the blessed month. That’s where a Ramadan planner helps organise your worship, track progress, and ensure you make the most of this sacred month!
Why a Ramadan Planner?
Using a Ramadan planner helps you stay consistent with your spiritual goals for the blessed month.
The structured guide of a planner makes it easier to stay motivated by ensuring you keep track of your ibadah (acts of worship) and personal growth.
Whether it’s increasing in Quran recitation, sunnah and nafl prayers, or giving more charity (sadaqah), the planner is here to help you achieve them!
A Ramadan Planner can be digital or physical – whichever you prefer. To make things easier, you can get your very own printable Ramadan Planner PDF (for free!) right here, at Islamic Relief Australia.
So now that you’ve got your free Ramadan Planner PDF, what next? Here’s how to cater your planner to your own needs.
How to Use Your Ramadan Journal/Planner
Setting Your Intentions and Goals
Before Ramadan begins, take a moment to define your objectives. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “Actions are judged by intentions.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
Setting clear goals ensures that your efforts are focused and meaningful. It helps you remind yourself of what you need to work on throughout the month and ensures you stay on track!
In the planner, we’ve put these key areas to consider:
Quran Recitation – Decide how much you want to read daily or weekly. If you aim to complete the Quran during Ramadan, plan to read one juz per day.
Charity & Good Deeds – Plan how you will give sadaqah. This can be through financial donations, volunteering, or acts of kindness.
Strengthening Relationships – Plan out how you want to make an effort to connect with family, friends, and the community during Ramadan.
Seeking Forgiveness – Write down all the ways you can seek forgiveness. This can be through Istighfar (seeking forgiveness from Allah (SWT)) or asking for forgiveness from and forgiving others.
Intentional Positive Actions – Think about what daily actions you want to perform more of that helps you increase acts of worship and spread kindness.
Building Good Habits – Ramadan is the time to build new positive habits and break old negative ones. Write down what small, daily positive changes you can add to your routine that you can even continue beyond Ramadan.
Using the Ramadan Planner Features
A structured planner allows you to monitor your spiritual growth. In the Ramadan Planner PDF, you can keep track of your duas, Quran progress, daily reflections, ibadah, sadaqa and prayers daily!
Photo: A sneak peek into the Ramadan Journal/Planner for 1446/2025
Here is what to do for each of the sections that help you track your habits.
Ramadan Duas Page – Note a supplication to memorise and recite.
Your Reflection Box – Write key insights, gratitude points, or struggles you faced during the day.
Quran Tracker Box – Record the surah, verse, and juz you read each day.
Sadaqa Checkbox – Whether financial or in the form of good deeds, tick it if you’ve done at least one type of sadaqah.
Dhikr (Zikr) Checkbox – A reminder to increase remembrance of Allah (SWT) throughout the day, tick it once you’ve done it.
Shukr Checkbox – A reminder to express gratitude to Allah (SWT) for His blessings. Whether through words, actions, or heartfelt reflection, tick it once you’ve taken a moment to acknowledge and appreciate something in your life.
Taraweeh Checkbox – Encourage consistency in your night prayers by marking this after completing Taraweeh. Whether at home or in the mosque, aim to make it a regular part of your Ramadan routine.
Habit Tracker Page – Keep track of the positive habits you’re building this Ramadan. Whether it’s praying on time, reading Quran, limiting distractions, or practicing patience, tick a box once you’ve successfully maintained a habit for the day.
Building Your Plan for Laylatul Qadr
The last ten nights of Ramadan are the most important and sacred nights of the Islamic year. Because in them lies Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power), the night better than a thousand months. A well-prepared plan allows you to make the most of these final, spiritually rewarding nights.
The Night of Decree (Laylatul Qadr) is better than a thousand months. (Quran 97:3)
The Ramadan Planner PDF has an inbuilt reminder for you to keep Laylatul Qadr in mind. Use to make sure you…
Mark the odd nights (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, 29th) for increased worship.
Set aside extra time for Tahajjud (night prayers) and Quran recitation.
Prepare a list of duas you want to make on these blessed nights.
Schedule Sadaqah donations during these nights.
Plan small daily acts of kindness, such as checking in on family members, visiting the sick, or helping a neighbour.
Take a Break with the Planner Activities
Ramadan is a time of deep spiritual reflection, but it’s also important to take mindful breaks to refresh and recharge.
The Ramadan Planner PDF includes a colouring page and word search, which are perfect for moments when you need a mental reset but still want to reflect on Ramadan themes.
Taking short breaks with these activities can help prevent burnout and keep your Ramadan experience balanced. Whether it’s a few minutes of colouring after Iftar or a quick word search before Suhoor, enjoy these moments of relaxation while staying connected to the spirit of the month!
Commit to Your Planner for a Meaningful Ramadan
A Ramadan planner helps you stay accountable, organised, and spiritually engaged. Having this structured approach to worship can transform your Ramadan experience for the better! May Allah (SWT) help you stay steadfast on your Ramadan goals!
Get the Ramadan Journal
How do you make the most of Ramadan? For the most blessed time of the year, here’s a daily planner to help you stay organised.
Five Pillars of Islam are core obligations that serve as a guide for every Muslim. Ones that nurtures their spiritual growth, self-discipline and devotion to Allah (SWT).
Together, these pillars form the foundation of Islamic belief and practice. It unites Muslims around the world in a shared commitment to the deen (faith).
What are the 5 pillars of Islam?
The five pillars of Islam include: Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (almsgiving), Sawm (fasting), and Hajj (pilgrimage).
Shahada (Faith)
The Shahada is the first and most fundamental pillar of Islam, serving as the very foundation of a Muslim’s faith. This is the declaration of faith in one God (Allah) and His messenger (ﷺ).
Ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Allah, Wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan Rasulu-Allah
أشهد أن لا إله إلا الله وأشهد أن محمدًا رسول الله
“I bear witness that there is no god but God, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of God”
This testimony affirms the core belief of Tawheed (the oneness of God), rejecting any association of partners with Him. It also acknowledges Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as the final messenger of Allah (SWT). As his legacy is one that follows a long line of prophets sent to guide humanity.
Salah (Prayer)
Salah is the second pillar of Islam and a fundamental act of worship. This is the ritual prayer every Muslim must perform five times a day (at fixed times) throughout their lifetime. It establishes a direct and personal connection between a Muslim and Allah (SWT).
The prescribed times for Salah are:
Fajr – Before dawn
Dhuhr – After midday
Asr – Afternoon
Maghrib – Just after sunset
Isha – Night
These prayers are a constant reminder of a Muslim’s faith, reinforcing discipline, humbleness, and mindfulness of Allah (SWT) throughout the day.
Zakat (Almsgiving)
Zakat, the third pillar of Islam, purifies a Muslim’s wealth and soul. It is an obligatory form of charity that requires Muslims who are of age, sound mind, and meet the Nisab (minimum wealth threshold) to give 2.5% of their savings annually to those in need.
The Quran outlines eight eligible recipients, as stated in Surah At-Tawbah, in this verse (ayat).
Alms-tax is only for the poor and the needy, for those employed to administer it, for those whose hearts are attracted ˹to the faith˺, for ˹freeing˺ slaves, for those in debt, for Allah’s cause, and for ˹needy˺ travellers. ˹This is˺ an obligation from Allah. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.
Quran 9:60
By fulfilling Zakat, Muslims uphold social responsibility and deepen their faith, ensuring that wealth benefits the entire community.
Sawm (Fasting)
Sawm, the fourth pillar of Islam, is a compulsory act of worship observed during Ramadan. It requires Muslims to abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib). As the blessed month of Ramadan is a time of spiritual purification, self-discipline, and devotion to Allah (SWT).
Key aspects of fasting include suhoor, the meal eaten before fajr prayer, and iftar, breaking the fast at sunset.
Every Muslim who are of age (i.e. has reached puberty) must fast during Ramadan. But there are also exemptions, such as those who are sick, elderly, travellers, and others with valid reasons (such as pregnancy or menstruation). However, they must also make up their fast once able to, if possible. If not, then they should pay compensation, called fidya, to the needy.
Beyond Ramadan, voluntary fasting on special days, such as Mondays and Thursdays or the Day of Arafah, is encouraged for extra rewards.
Hajj (Pilgrimage)
Hajj, the fifth and final pillar of Islam, is the sacred pilgrimage to Makkah (Mecca). It is required once in a lifetime for Muslims who are physically and financially able.
Taking place in Dhul Hijjah, it symbolises submission to Allah (SWT) and unity among believers. Key aspects of hajj include:
Ihram – Entering a state of purity and wearing simple white garments.
Tawaf – Circling the Kaaba seven times in devotion.
Sa’i – Walking between Safa and Marwah, honoring Hajar’s struggle.
Arafah – The most significant day, spent in deep prayer and repentance.
Rami al-Jamarat – Stoning the pillars representing Shaytan.
Qurban – Sacrificing an animal in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
What do the 5 pillars of Islam mean?
Overall, the five pillars of Islam are Shahada, Salah, Zakat, Sawm, and Hajj. They are the five key practices that all Muslims are obligated to fulfil throughout their lifetime. These practices are referred to as pillars because they form the foundation of Muslim life.
Why are the five pillars of Islam important?
Each of the five pillars works in tandem with one another to bring the essence of Islam into the lives of every Muslim:
Monotheism and the belief in Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the last messenger of God is the central tenet of Islam around which everything else revolves. Thus, reciting the Shahada (shahadah) in prayer each day serves to remind Muslims of this integral belief.
Salah (salat) occurs five times a day. This, hence, offers five different opportunities for remembrance of Allah (SWT) and our purpose in this life to worship Him.
The month of Ramadan requires every Muslim to abstain from their most basic needs and desires, like food, drink and physical relations for a period of time each day. Every year, the Sawm (fasting) gives Muslims the opportunity to gather control over their human needs. Without these distractions, Muslims can instead nurture good conduct and their connection to Allah (SWT).
While Sadaqah (charity) is greatly encouraged to be a part of everyday Muslim life, it is obligatory to offer Zakat (alms) once a year. This ensures that wealth is continuously redistributed to those who are in need of it.
During the Hajj (pilgrimage), Muslims must each wear the same simple garments and perform the same ritual acts of devotion to Allah. Stripped of worldly distinction, people are reminded that all are equal before God.
Knowing the Key Facts about the Five Pillars of Islam
The Five Pillars of Islam form the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and practice, guiding their spiritual and daily lives. While these obligations are essential, Islam also recognises individual circumstances, offering exemptions and alternatives for those unable to fulfil certain pillars due to health, financial, or other valid reasons.
By embracing these pillars, Muslims strengthen their connection with Allah (SWT), helping build a just and compassionate society.
Ramadan, for Muslims, is the most blessed time of the year. It opens the door for opportunities to lose bad habits and exchange them for healthier ones – all while gaining immense rewards.
Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated, the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “Every deed of the son of Adam will be given a ten-fold reward, up to seven hundred. Allah says: ‘Except fasting, for it is for Me, and I shall reward for it, for he gives up his desire and his food for My sake…’ and the fasting person has two joys, one joy when he breaks his fast and another when he meets his Lord. And the smell from his mouth is better before Allah than the fragrance of musk.”
Sahih Al Bukhari
However, in this day and age, it can be hard to match up our big plans for Ramadan with our busy schedule. Even with our best intentions and efforts, staying on top of chores, family commitments, school or work, on top of the additional worship is often more complicated than we think!
So how do we make the most of it? How can we maximise the benefits of Ramadan without getting overwhelmed?
Top Tips for Tackling Ramadan on a Busy Schedule
Many of us are super-worried about our productivity during Ramadan. What is the right balance between staying on top of our daily tasks while also squeezing in more ibadah (acts of worship) in our lives?
That’s why we’re giving you 10 practical tips for Ramadan to help you reach your spiritual goals for this blessed month without burning out!
1 | Start Ramadan with Sincere Intentions
Having sincere intentions, working hard and making lots of dua is the hack for an ultimate productive Ramadan.
Umar ibn al-Khattab reported, the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “Verily, deeds are only with intentions, and every person will have only what they intended.”
Bukhari and Muslim
Intentions lead to results. When a change in intention occurs, when we commit to take action, it makes us more motivated to do it.
Having the intention is enough for Allah (SWT) to make a change in our reality, so we should not dismiss how a change in intention (our internal condition, our mindset) needs to occur so we can take steps to change our external condition.
2 | Plan Ahead and Set Clear Goals for Ramadan
Before Ramadan starts, set personal goals for yourself. Break them down step by step to make it easier for you to tackle them.
For example, set a goal for how many chapters of Quran you would like to finish during the month. Once you do that, split the task and divide it. Have a set number of pages or ayat to read each day. Then decide if you want to set a whole block of your day for reciting or have multiple smaller time slots throughout the day.
You can also set similar goals for dhikr, duas, extra prayers, and more. However, be sure to be realistic – know your limits. Highlight the small, consistent acts that are challenging but you know you can complete. Then have another list for the ibadah you want to add on after you smash your initial goals. That way, you’re always striving to do better throughout the month!
3 | Prioritise Your Spiritual Obligations
Even with our busy schedules, we need to always have time for prayer and remembering Allah (SWT) – especially during the holiest month of the year, Ramadan.
Try to work your schedule around salat (prayer) times rather than the other way around. Set reminders or alarms on your phone to ensure you don’t forget your spiritual obligations amidst your busy schedule. Soon enough, it’ll come naturally to you, and you’ll be able to maximise every moment during Ramadan.
4 | Build Environments that Make it Easier to Stay Focused
Fasting can make it hard to concentrate, especially in the afternoon. But with the right approach, you can stay productive.
Adjust your work or school schedule to accommodate for fasting and prayer times in Ramadan. Likewise, talk to your employer or supervisor to see if they can offer flexible working or a lighter workload during Ramadan.
For school or work, focus on demanding tasks right after Suhoor (the meal you eat before you fast) when your mind is fresh. In turn, if you can, take power naps. A short nap (around 10-20 minutes) after Dhuhr can go a long way in boosting your energy.
Overall, having this strategic approach to your busy schedule prevents exhaustion and helps keep you on track.
5 | Step Back From Socials
If you’re someone who spends a good chunk of their day browsing and surfing on social media forums, it might be a good idea to take a step back for Ramadan. Turn off notifications, temporarily deactivate your accounts, or maybe even delete the applications from your phone.
Taking these steps will help you not get distracted by socials in the first place. This way, you have more time to work on beautifying your ibadah – doing more dhikr, dua, Quranic recitation and more!
6 | Eat Healthy Meals for Suhoor and Iftar
Eating well is key to staying productive. It keeps your energy steady, making ibadah and daily tasks easier. So, what foods should you eat for suhoor and iftar?
For suhoor, focus on slow-digesting foods that help you stay full longer. These include oats, eggs, whole grains, and nuts. Try to limit salty and sugary foods as they cause you to get dehydrated more quickly.
For iftar, break your fast with dates and water, following the Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ). Then have a balanced meal with lean proteins (like chicken, fish, or tofu), healthy fats (like nuts or eggs), and complex carbs (like potato or whole grains).
To make things less overwhelming, try meal prepping! It saves time, ensuring you have a nutritious meal ready to go, even on the busiest days.
One of the key tips to Ramadan meal prep is cooking in batches and freezing meals. You can also prepare smoothies or overnight oats for quick suhoor options. And for those moments you feel a bit hungry after taraweeh? Keep healthy snacks on hand to avoid reaching for junk food.
All in all, keep things clean and simple! By eating right, you won’t make work and worship harder on yourself during this blessed month.
7 | Continuously Ask Allah (SWT) for Forgiveness
Allah (SWT) loves those who engage in constant ‘istighfar’ – constant repentance. So, one of the best things you can do in Ramadan is seek Allah’s (SWT) Mercy.
Ramadan is a blessed month when Allah (SWT) widens the gates of communication and mercy.
Ibn’ Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him), narrated that Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: “If anyone constantly seeks pardon (from Allah), Allah will appoint for him a way out of every distress and a relief from every anxiety, and will provide sustenance for him from where he expects not.”
Abu Dawud
8 | Include Frequent Dhikr in Your Schedule
One of the easiest acts of worship to include in your busy schedules is Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah (SWT)). It’s short, and Allah (SWT) gives you great rewards for it!
Dhikr (plural, adhkar) includes sayings that glorify Allah (SWT), such as Allahu Akbar, subhanAllah, and Alhamdulillah. Adhkar can also include reciting dua or certain verses in the Qur’an for the purpose of remembering Allah (SWT).
They’re short enough to memorise or recite fairly quickly during any free time you get in between your daily tasks of the day.
For example, if you are driving to work and you have a 15-20 minute journey in between, use that time to engage in dhikr. Or use your breaks in between work meetings, or spend a few minutes after salah to make dhikr with tasbeeh.
While it might not seem like much, by maximising your ibadah time in this way, when you add them all together, that’s quite a lot of potential good deeds!
9 | Maximise Ramadan Nights for Worship, Even with a Busy Routine
The nights of Ramadan, especially the last ten, are filled with many blessings. But it can be quite the struggle to balance Taraweeh, family time, and rest during these nights.
To help maximising your time for worship at night, focus on what works best for you. If you can’t pray long Taraweeh, pray shorter ones. Even two extra rak’ahs bring rewards.
In turn, if you struggle to stay up late, do small but consistent ibadah. Keep a list of short duas handy and make those supplications sincerely. Do tasbeeh (glorifying Allah) or reflect on a few Quranic verses.
If your time is limited, quality matters more than quantity. Because, with sincere intentions, even small efforts during the night can bring great rewards.
10 | Manage Your Ramadan Workload
Even if we have a plan for our goals, we can still get overwhelmed or underestimate how long things will take. This is especially true during Ramadan, where many of us will have more commitments, including being invited to iftar dinners and taraweeh prayers to perform.
That’s why it’s essential to have a strategy in place to manage our workload during Ramadan. Prioritise tasks, delegate where possible, and avoid taking on additional responsibilities if you can.
And remember, don’t get discouraged if everything doesn’t go as planned. Keep planning, keep trying. For Allah (SWT) is the best of planners, and whatever He puts in your path He knows you can overcome it!
In Conclusion…
Ramadan doesn’t have to be overwhelming, even for the busiest Muslims. With the right mindset and planning, you can balance work, worship, and family – all while making the most of this blessed time.
Remember, Allah (SWT) rewards efforts, not perfection. Even small acts done with sincerity can bring immense barakah (blessings).
So, make an extra effort in this Holy month – it will go a long way! May this Ramadan be a time of growth and blessings for you and your loved ones!
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With the Holy month of Ramadan just around the corner, Muslims across the globe are rushing to prepare themselves for this sacred time – including us!
Ramadan is a marathon that rewards you for doing your best and participating in it from start to finish. With each trial faced, with each sincere intention made, with each act of worship (ibadah) carried out for His sake, Allah (SWT) promises His believers multiplied rewards and blessings.
Allah (SWT) created Ramadan to be a fulfilling experience for the believer. It’s a month that’s made to ease the heart and mind and purify the body and soul. But if you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry! Here are some easy-to-follow Pre-Ramadan preparation tips to help you build your action plan for the month!
Note Down the Bad Habits You Want to Break
Ramadan, a month of mercy and forgiveness, is one of the best times to break bad habits. For one, Allah (SWT) has locked all Shayateen (devils) during this time. Thus, He makes it easier for us to stay away from harmful acts. Likewise, having to fast from dawn to dusk for the whole month further encourages us to control our appetite. It also helps keep our actions in check as we receive more rewards for it.
Keep yourself accountable by first noting down the bad habits you feel confident in getting rid of for Ramadan. Then, write down the steps you plan to take to break that habit. For example, one habit you might have is praying at the last minute. Here is a list of actions you might want to take to break it:
Set an alarm 10-15 minutes before prayer time (or your local Juma’at time) so you have time to make wudu or ghusl and get yourself in the mindset for prayer.
Get a friend or family member to ask if you’ve prayed or not well before prayer time ends.
Make sure you’ve packed a lightweight prayer mat (Sajadah) and wear clothes you can pray in if you plan to go out.
Of course, some habits are harder to break than others. Especially if it’s one we’ve had for many years. But, even if you start small, every effort you take towards bettering yourself for Allah (SWT)’s sake will weigh heavily in your favour. In this life and the Hereafter.
Write Down Your Short-Term and Long-Term Goals
Many of us go into Ramadan determined to make the most of it. We make plans to perfect our Salah (prayer), read more Quran, learn more about Islam, give more charity, and do more good overall. However, it can be hard to stay motivated or know if we’re improving on our good habits if we don’t have specific goals in mind.
Keep yourself focused by writing down a list of all the goals you want to work on during Ramadan. Include both the short-term goals you want to complete during the month. As well as the long-term goals you want to continue working on beyond Ramadan.
For example, maybe one of your long-term goals is to memorise the whole Quran. Then, one of the short-term goals you might list to help achieve this goal can be having a specific time of day to read and memorise the Quran (e.g. half an hour after Fajr, 20 minutes before Maghrib, etc.). Another goal can be choosing a couple of Surahs (chapters) of the Quran to memorise during the month.
Whatever your goals might be, make sure it’s doable for you. Don’t feel bad about taking things slow. Gradual but consistent improvement is better than speeding through goals just to get them done.
Going back to the Quran example, maybe for now you can only memorise one or two short surahs during the month, but one day you’ll be able to memorise a page a day or maybe even more. Ramadan is the best time to build good habits after all and you should be able to enjoy the journey it takes to develop them.
Get on Top of Your Health
Looking after our health is an important part of our faith, as, in Islam, our bodies have a right over us (Sahih Bukhari). Fasting in Ramadan includes going long hours without food and drink. Hence, we should make sure we are physically and mentally prepared for it. So, we can spend the month focused on our worship of Allah (SWT).
Before Ramadan arrives, check on how your mind and body feel. Do you have any symptoms you want a health professional to look at? A chronic health condition? Is there any medication you must take at certain times of the day? Schedule a visit with your doctor if you can. Then, ask them to help you figure out a plan that works best for you while fasting.
Even if you feel fine and don’t have any outstanding medical conditions, it’s still important to know how to look after your mind and body throughout Ramadan.
While fasting has many benefits that can help reach many health goals (e.g. losing weight, decreasing stress levels, preventing further health conditions, etc.), it can also get overwhelming or tiring.
One of the ways to combat this is by eating wholesome meals for Suhoor (or Sehri) and Iftar. This includes having foods with nutrients that help you feel energised for a long time, such as fibre-rich grains, fruits, or vegetables.
By preparing your mind and body for the month of fasting ahead, you have more time to focus on your spirituality and thus work on making the most of Ramadan’s blessings.
Make Space In Your Ramadan Calendar for Community
The month of Ramadan is a time of community. Many families gather together for iftar and Masajid (Mosques) are often fuller in Ramadan than at any other time of year, especially for Taraweeh prayer.
Before Ramadan, many Islamic community centres will post their schedule of activities and workshops for or in preparation for the month. Your family or community themselves might also have big events planned, whether it be iftar gatherings, fundraisers, halaqahs or Quran circles.
In either case, take some time to make note of these events in your calendar and how you can work them into your Ramadan goals.
In the month when blessings are multiplied and there are more opportunities for rewards, when we come together to worship Allah (SWT), working your schedule around the community events can help you make the most of this month. Thus, strengthening your bond with your loved ones and Allah (SWT).
Keep Your Action Plan With You Throughout Ramadan
Now that you know your schedule and goals for Ramadan, keep that action plan close to you throughout the month.
Make time each day to keep track of your progress, go over the goals you need to work on and see what events you have on that day. By having this system in place, it helps make Ramadan less overwhelming and can even encourage us to keep these organised habits even after the month ends!
So make the most of the time you have left before Ramadan to make an action plan. Be sure to take note of all the habits you want to break and your key goals (short-term and long-term). Likewise, keep up to date with your health requirements and any plans you, your family or your community might have for Ramadan.
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How do you make the most of Ramadan? For the most blessed time of the year, here’s a daily planner to help you stay organised.
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Shaban (or Sha’ban, Shaaban), is the eighth month in the Islamic calendar. Coming before the ninth month, Ramadan, it is a bridge to the blessings the holy month brings.
Thus, we explore, “What is Shaban?”, as a time to prepare for the important month ahead, and one we must not neglect.
When is Shaban 2026?
Shaban, this year, begins on the evening of Monday, January 19, 2026, according to the new moon’s sighting. This makes the first day of Shaban, Tuseday, January 20, 2026.
This Islamic month may end on the evening of Friday, February 17, 2026, depending on the moon’s sighting for the start of Ramadan.
Photo: The sighting of the moon is used to determine the dates of the Islamic months of the lunar calendar.
What is the Significance of Shaban?
Imam Abu Bakr al-Warraq al-Balkhi (RA), the uncle of Imam Tirmidhi (RA), said: “The month of Rajab is the month of planting (your seeds), Sha‘ban is the month of irrigating / watering (them), and Ramadan is the month of harvesting the crop.”
Lataiful Ma’arif
Shaban, being the month just before Ramadan, is a perfect time to prepare for the blessed month. But it too, holds great importance on its own. Here are key reasons why:
More Fasting Than Any Other Month (Except Ramadan)
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) would fast in Shaban more than any other month except Ramadan. Aisha (RA) said:
“I never saw the Messenger of Allah ﷺ fasting for an entire month except in Ramadan, and I never saw him fasting more than he did in Sha’ban.”
Sahih Al-Bukhari
He (ﷺ) also loved to fast in this month. So much so, that it was recorded in hadith. In Sunan Abu Dawud, it states, “The most beloved of months for the Messenger of Allah ﷺ to fast in was Sha’ban, and his fasting in Sha’ban was continuous with his fasting in Ramadan.”
More Opportunity for Rewards
Many scholars of the past (Salaf) also believed that fasting in Shaban was better than fasting in other months, even the sacred ones.
Ibn Rajab (RA) said, “Fasting in Sha’ban is better than fasting in the Sacred Months, and the best of voluntary fasts are those that are (observed in the months) closest to Ramadan, before or after.”
A hadith in Silsilat ul-Ahadith-as Sahiha also states, “Allah forgives all the believers in general; except the polytheists and the jealous people on the middle night of Sha’ban.” Some Muslims refer to this night as a Shab-e-Barat, however no Quranic verses specifically mention it.
Good Deeds to Do on Sha’ban
There are a lot of good deeds you can perform in the month of Shaban to make the most of it. Here are some simple acts of worship (ibadah) to add to your daily routine to earn good deeds AND prepare for Ramadan.
1. Do Voluntary Fasts
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) used to fast most of the days of Shaban. Thus, we should follow his Sunnah (actions and way of living) and keep as many voluntary fasts as we can in Shaban too. If it is hard to fast most of the month, try to fast on the 13th, 14th, and 15th as they are the White Days (Al-Ayyam al-Bid) of the Islamic month.
However, there are also exceptions to fasting in Shaban. Abu Hurayrah (RA) mentioned that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, “Do not anticipate Ramadan by fasting one or two days before it begins, but if a man habitually fasts, then let him fast.” (Sahih Muslim) He also reported that the Prophet (ﷺ) said to not fast if Sha’ban is half over. (Tirmidhi)
The exception to this would be someone who fasted regularly, such as the Prophet (ﷺ) and many of his companions. Thus, if you are someone who regularly observes the sunnah fast, then you may still observe them in the second half of Sha’ban. It is also permissible to make up a Ramadan fast at this time, if necessary, as Aisha (RA), one of the wives of the Prophet (ﷺ), herself said she would make up fasts in Shaban.
2. Recite the Quran
Ramadan is the month of revelation of the Quran. Naturally, it is the month when we recite it the most. Thus, to help us get ready and see the best results in Ramadan, we should start the habit of reciting it more, starting from Shaban.
Salamah ibn Kuhayl (RA) said, “It was said that Sha’ban was the month of the Quran readers.” (Lataiful Ma’arif)
3. Make Lots of Duas
Apart from obligatory prayers and observing fasting in Shaban, reciting different duas, tasbeeh, and staying engaged in remembrance of Allah (SWT) is also a good way of making the most of this month.
Here are some duas you can say to seek forgiveness and blessings from Allah (SWT).
“O Allah (SWT), I seek refuge in Your pleasure from Your anger and in Your forgiveness from Your punishment. I seek refuge in You from You. I cannot praise You enough. You are as You have praised Yourself.”
“Our Lord! Take us not to task if we forget or fall into error”
Qur’an 2:286
4. Perform Voluntary Prayers
To make it easier to do more voluntary prayers in Ramadan, start the practice of praying Tahajjud from Shaban. It will help you get used to the Ramadan schedule quicker and also bring you many rewards.
5. Start Preparing Money for Ramadan
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was the most generous in giving charity (Zakat and Sadaqah) during Ramadan. To prepare for giving in Ramadan, we should start getting ready in Shaban, including finding Zakat calculations.
Like other forms of Ibadah, charity in Shaban is also an act of worship as you show kindness to others. For every good deed, specifically charity during Shaban, you can gain blessings in abundance.
Shaban: A Pathway to Blessings and Rewards
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “(Shaban) is a month to which people do not pay much attention, between Rajab and Ramadan. It is a month in which the deeds are taken up to the Lord of the worlds, and I like that my deeds be taken up when I am fasting.” (An-Nasa’i).
With this in mind, it is important not to neglect this blessed time. To make the most of it by increasing worshipping, observing fasting, reciting Quran and duas, and engaging in charitable activities.
Thus, it will be a month that not only strengthens your bond with Allah (SWT), but also help you prepare for the sacred month of Ramadan.
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Isra’ and Mi’raj is an important night occurring on the 27th of Rajab. One that we should not slip by without reflecting on its lessons and its significance.
This year, Al Isra’ wal-Mi’raj 2025 is predicted to take place on the evening of January 26th 2025, depending on the sighting of the moon.
What is Isra’ and Mi’raj (Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj)?
Isra’ and Mi’raj, known as Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj in Arabic, is a miracle second only to the revelation of the Qur’an.
Translated, it means the Night Journey and Ascension. It refers to the event when that transported Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) from al-Masjid al-Haram to al-Masjid al-Aqsa, from where he (ﷺ) ascended to heaven. It was an incredible journey, filled with many wonders and miracles.
Photo: Night, when the Prophet (ﷺ) embarked on the incredible night journey and ascension.
When did the Night Journey and Ascension (Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj) Happen?
Isra’ and Mi’raj took place during a time when Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was facing intense hardship and pain.
The Quraysh constantly ridiculed, humiliated and oppressed the Prophet (ﷺ) and his followers. Moreover, he (ﷺ) had just faced the Year of Sorrow (’Aam al-Huzn), during which he (ﷺ) lost his beloved wife Khadijah (RA) and his uncle Abu Talib, his protector and ally.
In addition to all these struggles, when the Prophet (ﷺ) travelled to Ta’if to spread the message of Islam, the people of Ta’if rejected him, sending their children after him to stone him until he left the city.
Having gone through so much grief and suffering, Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj came to the Prophet (ﷺ) as a beautiful and comforting gift.
He was transported not only through the skies but ultimately into the presence of Allah (SWT), the source of all comfort and hope.
Al-Isra’: From the Ka’bah to Al-Aqsa
When the Prophet (ﷺ) was sleeping in the house of Umm Hani (ra) in Makkah when the roof of his house opened and the Angel Jibril (AS) descended (Bukhari).
He (ﷺ) was then taken to the Hijr, the semi-circular wall of the Ka‘bah. It was there that Jibril (AS) opened the Prophet (ﷺ)’s chest and washed it with Zamzam water. Jibril then brought a golden tray full of wisdom and faith, and having poured its contents into the Prophet (ﷺ)’s chest, he closed it. (Bukhari)
Jibril then brought to the Prophet (ﷺ) a white beast called al-Buraq (from the Arabic word barq, meaning lightning). It was bigger than a donkey and smaller than a mule. Its stride was as long as the eye could reach. (Muslim)
Buraq first shied from the Prophet (ﷺ) before they set off. So Jibril (AS) said to a saddled and reined Buraq, “Is it from Muhammad (ﷺ) that you do this? For nobody has ridden you who is more honourable to Allah than him! Then Buraq started sweating profusely. (Tirmidhi)
At several points along the journey, Jibril (AS) stopped Buraq and told the Prophet (ﷺ), “Dismount and pray”. The first stop was at “the place of emigration”, Madinah. Soon, after this night, the Prophet (ﷺ) would meet the Ansar and migrate to Madinah.
The second stop was on Mount Sinai, where Allah (SWT) revealed the Torah to Musa (AS). The third stop was at Bethlehem, where ’Isa (AS) was born.
The fourth stop was the grave of Musa (AS), located “a stone’s throw” away from the holy land of the Blessed Masjid Al-Aqsa (Bukhari).
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “On the night on which I was taken on the Night Journey, I passed by Musa and he was praying in his grave.”
Sunan an-Nasai
Arriving at Al-Aqsa
When Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) arrived in the holy city of Al-Quds (Jerusalem), they approached Masjid Al-Aqsa. There, Jibril (AS) pointed to the Masjid with his finger, causing a crack in the rock, and tied Buraq to the western wall of the noble sanctuary. (Tirmidhi).
Waiting inside were all 124,000 Prophets (AS), and among them included Musa (AS), Isa (AS) and Ibrahim. Jibril (AS) led the Prophet (ﷺ) to the front, and he (ﷺ) led them all in prayer in this blessed space.
When the Prophet (ﷺ) completed the prayer, someone said, “Here is Malik (AS), the keeper of Hellfire, so convey Salams to him”. So, he (ﷺ) turned to him, but the angel Malik preceded him in Salams’ (Muslim).
The Prophets (AS) also discussed, after praising Allah (SWT), about “the Hour”. Both Ibrahim (AS) and Musa (AS) stated that they “did not have any knowledge of it”. Whilst ’Isa (AS) ’mentioned the Dajjal (anti-Christ). (Ibn Majah)
Following the discussion, the Prophet (ﷺ) came out and Jibril (AS) brought him (ﷺ) a vessel of wine and a vessel of milk. When the Prophet (ﷺ) chose the milk Jibril (AS) said, “You have chosen the natural state (Fitrah)” (Muslim).
The Prophet (ﷺ), with Jibril (AS), then proceeded to the Noble Rock (as-Sakhrah al-Musharrafah), currently housed by the holy Dome of the Rock Masjid, at the centre of the noble sanctuary (al-Haram ash-Sharif) of the Blessed Masjid Al-Aqsa.
He (ﷺ) then ascended into the heavens for the next part of this incredible journey – the Mi‘raj, the Ascension!
What is the Mi’raj?
He (ﷺ) certainly saw some of his Lord’s greatest signs.
Qur’an 53:18
The word Al-Mi’raj is a noun of instrument in Arabic morphology, which literally means ‘an instrument you use to ascend’. But how does this relate to the Prophet (ﷺ)’s night journey?
In the Prophet’s Night Journey and Heavenly Ascent by Sayyid Muhammad ibn Alawi al-Maliki, it states that:
The Prophet (ﷺ), “saw the wide-eyed maidens of Paradise at the left of the Rock (at the Dome of the Rock Masjid). He greeted them and they returned his greeting.
“Then he asked them something and they replied with an answer that cools the eyes. Then the Prophet (ﷺ) was brought the ladder by which the spirits of the children of Adam (AS) ascend.
“It had alternate stairs of silver and gold and came down from the Highest Garden of Paradise, Jannat al-Firdaus. It was encrusted with pearls and surrounded (by) angels on its right and left”
As recorded in The Life of Muhammad (ﷺ) Ibn Ishaq, the Prophet (ﷺ) also said the ladder was finer than any he had ever seen, and that this was the ladder which “the dying man looks when death approaches”.
Then the Prophet (ﷺ), accompanied by Jibril (AS), ascended into the layers of sky.
The First Sky
Allah ascended the Prophet (ﷺ) from the Dome of the Rock through the skies, where he saw many miraculous sights reaching heaven, the first layer of the sky and the end of the known universe.
Jibril (AS) then asked the (gate of heaven) to be opened (by knocking on one of its doors). (Bukhari)
The dwellers of Paradise asked, ‘Who is it?’ He said, ” Jibril.” They said, “Who is accompanying you?” He said, “Muhammad (ﷺ).” They said, “Has he (ﷺ ) been called?” He said, “Yes,” They said, “He (ﷺ) is welcomed.” (Bukhari)
The Prophet (ﷺ) also reported that when (the door of heaven) was opened for them “…suddenly I was with (the Prophet) Adam (AS). Then he welcomed me and supplicated for good for me”. (Muslim)
The Second to Seventh Sky
The Prophet (ﷺ) continued to ascend the layers of the skies with Jibril (AS). Each time, they again sought permission to enter, and the angelic guards were delighted and welcomed the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ).
It was also through passing these skies that the Prophet (ﷺ) met many of the prophets (AS) who came before him. At the second sky, he met prophets Isa (AS) and Yahya (AS). In the third sky, the Prophet (ﷺ) met the Prophet Yusuf (AS).
At the fourth sky, the Prophet (ﷺ) met the Prophet Idris (AS). In the fifth sky, he met the Prophet Harun (AS), before meeting Prophet Musa (AS) in the next sky – the sixth.
At each one of these levels, these Prophets (AS) welcomed the Prophet (ﷺ) and supplicated good for him saying, “Welcome O pious Prophet and pious brother!” (Bukhari)
At the seventh sky, the Prophet (ﷺ) met his greatest ancestor, the Prophet Ibrahim (AS) who was “reclining his back against al-Bayt al-Ma‘mur. And there enter into it seventy thousand angels every day ever to return to it (again)”. [Muslim]
(Bayt al-Ma’mur, in Arabic, means “the much-visited House”. It is the heavenly Ka‘bah directly above the one on earth). Like Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) also greeted the Prophet (ﷺ).
The Lote Tree
As the Prophet (ﷺ) carried on his journey, he reached the Furthest Lote Tree, known, in Arabic, as “Sidrah al-Muntaha” (Qur’an 53:14).
In several ahadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) described the tree in great detail.
“(Its) leaves were like elephant ears and its fruit like big earthenware vessels”. (Muslim)
“Then when it was covered by the Command of Allah, it underwent such a change that none amongst the creation has the power to praise its beauty” (Muslim)
“A rider will travel in the shade of one of its branches for a hundred years,” or “a hundred riders will seek to shade themselves with its shade”. (Tirmidhi)
The tree is surrounded (by) “golden butterflies”. (Tirmidhi)
He (ﷺ) further said: “many a colour had covered it which I do not know (i.e. the colours of this tree were indescribable)”. (Muslim)
He also stated that, “There terminates everything that ascends from the earth, and everything that descends from above”. (Tirmidhi)
The Divine Meeting
Then Allah revealed to His servant (ﷺ) what He revealed
Qur’an 53:10
At the end of this journey, the Prophet (ﷺ) was brought to Allah (SWT), the ultimate source of strength and relief.
Regarding this important meeting, the Prophet (ﷺ) said, ‘Then Allah revealed to me what he revealed to me and then He made obligatory for me fifty prayers every day and night’. [Muslim]
It was here that Allah gave this Ummah the gift of compulsory Salah. A daily source of strength to Muslims, giving them the opportunity to communicate with Allah (SWT) directly and draw closer to Him.
We also know, that through the Prophet Musa (AS)’s intervention and advice that fifty prayers were eventually reduced to five, but still rewarded as fifty, subhanAllah!
Returning Home
Finally, the Prophet (ﷺ) was taken back down to the Blessed Masjid Al-Aqsa and returned to Makkah on the Buraq.
As he was transported home, he saw various caravans heading towards Makkah, which he would later describe to the Quraysh as proof that he really had made this miraculous journey.
Allah (SWT) even displayed Bayt al-Maqdis to the Prophet (ﷺ), while the Quraish were cross-examining him in the Hijr of the Ka‘bah [Bukhari].
The entire journey had taken place in a small portion of a night, and there were many who would mock the Prophet (ﷺ) for making such a claim.
For the Muslims, however, the story was a source of wonder and hope, as it continues to be for us today.
On this night, the Prophet (ﷺ) was given the honour of travelling to various blessed places on earth, then ascending the levels of sky and being finally welcomed by Allah (SWT)! All this to honour the beloved Prophet (saw) and “to show him some of Our signs!” (Qur’an 17:1)
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Make the most of Rajab by preparing for Ramadan. Give the gift of happiness and hope to our brothers and sisters in need with Islamic Relief.
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3c on administering the funds and making sure we are accountable
This all ensures we can continue the lifesaving work we do and reach even more people in need, sustainably and with quality care.
So, for every 1c we spend on fundraising, we raise an additional 10c. That’s an extra $1.10 on top of your $1. Your donation is DOUBLED, Alhamdulillah!
Are My Donations Being Used Effectively?
The most important question should be ‘Are your donations being used effectively?’
With Islamic Relief, the answer is YES! Each day, Islamic Relief works hard to be a safe pair of hands for your donations. We’re accountable to you, to the people we serve and most importantly to Allah (SWT).
Alhamdulillah, because of your support, our family has transformed and saved over 120 million lives since 1984.
In Gaza, we are on the ground daily, providing millions in aid amidst ongoing conflict. In Sudan, we are fighting hunger and malnutrition and granting shelter to the millions displaced. As conflict and disease continue to grip our planet, we’re there to support vulnerable communities in need.
We don’t claim to have a 100% donation policy
We aim to use your generous donations in the most effective way possible, whilst remaining as transparent as possible! Did you know that we’re able to multiply your donations? So, we could claim to have a 100% PLUS donation policy, but we don’t.
Find out why Islamic Relief does not use a 100% donation policy here.
Together, we’re saving and transforming the lives of some of the world’s most vulnerable people. Without your support, we wouldn’t be able to do any of this. Please continue to give to Islamic Relief and help save even more lives.
See Your Impact
Our annual reports show how your Zakat and Sadaqah transforms the lives of millions with lifesaving aid.
We believe in transparency and accountability. Information on admin costs and annual financial accounts is readily available on the Islamic Relief Australia website.
We also have the information included in our Annual Report. This is independently audited and lodged with ACFID (Australian Council for International Development).
We also distribute our Annual Reporto key stakeholders, feature it on our website and promote it on social media. In turn, our financial statement is also available on the ACNC website.
We are making every effort to make people aware that Islamic Relief has admin costs. As well as why admin costs are a necessary expenditure for a high-performing and transparent charity.
Islamic Relief must submit its independently audited accounts annually to the ACNC. This the main body that registers and regulates charities in Australia to ensure that the public can support charities with confidence.
The ACNC is an independent, non-ministerial government department accountable to Parliament. If the ACNC has any concerns about the way a charity is running itself or presenting its information, it can hold the charity to account.
Islamic Relief is also a member of ACFID. Being a member of ACFID ensures adherence to high ethical and operational standards through the ACFID Code of Conduct. It provides credibility, compliance support, and access to resources. It also helps organisations strengthen policies, meet regulatory requirements, and improve accountability and transparency. All while offering training, networking, and advocacy opportunities to enhance impact and trust with donors and stakeholders.
It costs money to deliver aid and to do it well. Because of admin costs, we can ensure the people who need it most receive the best possible support, and not towards the wrong places.
Admin costs can cover a range of necessary expenses. This includes governance costs (e.g. audits), monitoring and evaluation (to ensure the delivery of this project and its planned impact). As well as rent for buildings, insurance, appropriate staff salaries, volunteer expenses, and equipment (e.g. laptops, phones) etc.
Islamic Relief ensures that it gets the best value for money to help deliver aid on the ground, and raise more funds for the people who need it the most.
The majority of staff at Islamic Relief work on a full-time basis. This ensures our donors’ money is spent in the most effective and impactful way. They are professionals who bring specialist skills and knowledge in order for us to deliver our work to high standards. This is how we can ensure that more people affected by conflict and natural disasters as well as those living in poverty can get the best help they need and deserve.
Islamic Relief is also working to help communities build their future with long-term projects. This can take a huge amount of work, commitment, and time for staff.
Staff would not be able to do this voluntarily on a full-time basis without a salary. They themselves need to support themselves and their families. Without staff, the work could not continue.
Those working for Islamic Relief are also an investment to raise more money, awareness, and funds, which ultimately means we can reach and help more people.
The scope of international development, campaigning, advocacy and working to raise awareness of those suffering across the work is a mammoth task and even full-time staff cannot cover everything. This is why we also ask volunteers to help by giving their time to help with events, fundraising, advocacy and campaigning. We engage with over 200 volunteers in Australia – their contribution is invaluable and highly appreciated.
Nearly all of Islamic Relief’s overseas staff and volunteers are local people who come from the communities they serve.
Yes – Islamic Relief utilises a small percentage of Zakat donations towards admin and fundraising costs. When you make a Zakat donation, we take a fixed amount of 12.5% in admin fees.
In the Qur’an, Allah tells us that zakat is for eight categories of people, including: “…those employed to administer the funds…” (9:60).
We have sought the opinion of well-respected scholars, who have informed us that since there are eight deserving categories, each is entitled to a proportion of 12.5%. This means whatever we spend on administrative costs and raising more funds are Zakat-eligible as per the Shariah.
Admin costs help us to deliver aid and to do it well. Thus, this ensures the people who need it most receive the best possible support and the money goes to where it is needed. It can cover governance costs (e.g. audits to comply with legal obligations and Charity Commission rules), rent for buildings, insurance, admin staff salaries, volunteer expenses, equipment (e.g. IT equipment) etc.
However, fundraising costs are an investment to generate more income which means we are able to help even more people.
Together we refer to these as ‘support costs’ and both are essential expenditure in helping us to achieve our aims.
