Every year, Ramadan seems to arrive at exactly the right time, bringing with it a little extra barakah, a little extra peace, and a chance to reset. It is a month filled with opportunities to earn rewards from Allah (SWT), as good deeds are multiplied and every act of worship carries greater weight. From our prayers and fasting to our personal finances and charitable giving, nearly every aspect of our lives presents an opportunity to draw closer to Allah (SWT).
In this episode of the UIF Community Podcast, UIF Resident Scholar Mufti Saad Haque joins Omer Subhani to discuss what we should focus on during Ramadan, why it is important to build good habits, and how to push ourselves to worship as much as we can, regardless of our stage in life.
One of the most important reminders from the discussion is that worship looks different during different seasons of life. When you're younger, you may have more free time to dedicate to extra prayers, Qur'an recitation, or even i'tikaf in the masjid. As life changes and responsibilities grow, especially after marriage and children, that same flexibility may not exist. That does not mean your opportunities for reward are any less. It simply means finding ways to worship within your current circumstances and making the most of the time and resources Allah (SWT) has given you.
Charity is one area where every Muslim has an opportunity to grow. Allah (SWT) says in the Qur'an:
"You will never achieve righteousness until you donate some of what you cherish. And whatever you give is certainly well known to Allah." (Ali 'Imran, 3:92)
Mufti Saad shared a powerful piece of advice from our scholars: "For some, it's more difficult to spend time. For others, it's more difficult to spend money. Scholars say, 'Spend from what is more difficult for you.'"
That reminder encourages us to think honestly about what sacrifice looks like in our own lives. For some, that may mean dedicating more time to worship, volunteering, or serving the community. For others, it may mean giving more generously from their wealth.
As we think about charitable giving during Ramadan, it is also important to remember our obligation to pay zakat. As one of the pillars of Islam, zakat is required for eligible Muslims, but the amount owed varies based on a person's assets. Factors such as savings, investments, gold, and certain types of property all play a role in determining how much zakat is due.
To make the process easier, UIF offers a Zakat Calculator on our website. Simply enter your eligible assets to calculate your zakat and fulfill this important obligation with confidence.
This episode is full of valuable reminders and practical advice for making the most of this blessed month. Whether you're looking to strengthen your worship, become more intentional with your charitable giving, or build habits that last long after Ramadan ends, you'll find plenty of beneficial insights.
Be sure to listen and share the episode with family and friends. Send it to the group chat, post it in your community pages, and help others benefit. After all, when we help others gain knowledge and grow closer to Allah (SWT), we share in the reward as well, insha'Allah.
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