Ramadan & fastingFrom the masjid's own video, Jan 17, 2026.
Prepare for Ramadan in Sha'ban
“Sha'ban is an introduction to Ramadan.”
In one sentence
Sha'ban should be used as deliberate spiritual preparation for Ramadan through fasting, Quran recitation, and consistent worship.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Introduces Sha'ban as preparation and momentum for Ramadan.
- Compares Sha'ban and Shawwal to Sunnah prayers before and after obligatory prayer.
- Cites reports that the Prophet fasted frequently during Sha'ban.
- Explains that Sha'ban is overlooked and that deeds are presented to Allah during it.
- Urges listeners to establish fasting, Quran recitation, and worship routines before Ramadan.
- Closes with Ramadan's spiritual opportunities, supplications, and community announcements.
Try this week
Fast regularly during Sha'ban.
Establish or increase daily Quran recitation before Ramadan.
Build a consistent worship routine and plan for Ramadan.
Avoid treating Sha'ban as a pre-Ramadan break.
Sources the khateeb cited
Musnad AhmadAnas's report supports that the Prophet fasted frequently and especially favored fasting in Sha'ban.
Sunan an-Nasa'iUsama's report presents Sha'ban as neglected and describes deeds being raised to Allah.
Sahih al-BukhariAisha's reports support that the Prophet fasted much of Sha'ban but not a whole month apart from Ramadan.
Quotes
In the khateeb's words
“Because Sha'ban is an introduction to Ramadan. It's a time where you really invest so that when Ramadan starts, we are ready, we are in the mood, we are motivated.”
“Sha'ban is a month where people do not pay enough attention to it. This month between Rajab and Ramadan is important. However, people do not pay enough attention to Sha'ban.”
“But to take it, you have to practice before Ramadan. So that's why Rasulullah did all this in Shahban.”
Talk about it at home
For the dinner table
Sheikh Saad reminded us that Sha'ban is a time to get our hearts and habits ready for Ramadan. He explained that the Prophet fasted frequently during this month and wanted to be fasting when his deeds were presented to Allah. He encouraged us to give Sha'ban attention instead of letting preparation slip away. Just as we prepare for important responsibilities in everyday life, we can make time now for worship and reading Qur'an. Reaching Ramadan is a blessing, and we ask Allah to help us reach it and accept our worship.
- Where could a little Qur'an reading fit into your day?
- What are you grateful for as Ramadan gets closer?
Keep listening
More on Ramadan & fasting
Fast the six days of Shawwal.20:06SALAM Arden · Sacramento, CA · Apr 3, 2026Six Shawwal fasts can earn a year
The most valuable thing is time.16:36NWIIC · Crown Point, IN · Apr 3, 2026Carry Ramadan’s taqwa throughout the year
Every single day you are doing something to make Allah happy.26:16ISGW · Worcester, MA · Apr 3, 2026Turn Ramadan’s remainder into lasting worship