Use Sha'ban to prepare for Ramadan
“Fasting before the obligatory fasting of Ramadan, it's a form of preparation.”
Believers should use Sha'ban to prepare spiritually and physically for Ramadan through fasting, worship, repentance, and consistent good deeds.
The khutbah in 6 steps
- Life is an opportunity to bank good deeds before meeting Allah.
- Sha'ban offers preparation for Ramadan through voluntary fasting.
- Fasting brings spiritual benefits, including protection from sin and closeness to Allah.
- Those unable to fast can begin Qur'an, night prayer, sunnah prayers, remembrance, repentance, and seeking forgiveness.
- Sha'ban is often neglected, yet deeds are presented to Allah and the Prophet loved fasting while his deeds were presented.
- The khutbah closes with practical guidance to fast Mondays and Thursdays, observe permissible voluntary fasts, and avoid religious innovations.
In the khateeb's words
“For the person who is grateful to Allah, who is certain that he is going to meet Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala.”
“this fasting before the obligatory fasting of Ramadan, it's a form of preparation.”
“And I said, if we are not physically able to do other good deeds, not to wait until Ramadan to start.”
“Start preparing yourself. Pray after a few raka'at. Like how we do the teraweeh. Read in Qur'an.”
For the dinner table
The khateeb reminded us that Allah gives us opportunities to do good, seek forgiveness, and draw closer to Him. Sha'ban, the month before Ramadan, is a time to begin preparing our hearts and habits instead of waiting for Ramadan to arrive. He encouraged voluntary fasting for those who are able, and reminded those who cannot fast that they can pray, read Qur'an, remember Allah, and do other good deeds. He also spoke about worshipping when others are distracted and reflecting on our deeds being presented to Allah. As a family, we can take one reminder to heart and begin putting it into practice with a sincere intention and hope in Allah's mercy.
- What helps you remember Allah when everyone around you is busy with other things?
- How could we encourage someone who cannot fast to feel included in our family's preparation?
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