Answer: Striving in Ramadan through righteous deeds is indeed commendable, for Ramadan enjoys a special rank and is a tremendous season of worship. Yet a Muslim is required to strive for good works throughout his whole life, in every stage and every month. His lifespan is a priceless opportunity, and he is heading toward an abode that is built on deeds, for reward in the Hereafter is granted only on account of one’s actions. Therefore he must invest his worldly life in righteous works while giving the days of extra merit and the blessed seasons—such as the month of Ramadan—an added measure of effort.

As for those negligent people who squander the obligations and the prescribed prayers: when Ramadan comes they exert themselves and keep up the prayer, but once Ramadan departs they abandon the obligations and let them lapse. The effort they showed in Ramadan will not be accepted from them. It was said to one of the early generations, “Some people strive hard in Ramadan, but when it ends they stop acting.” He replied, “What a wretched people—they recognize Allah only in Ramadan.”

Hence, if a person forsakes the obligatory duties—foremost among them the five daily prayers—nothing will be accepted from him. If, however, he merely neglects some Sunnah or supererogatory practices, there is no sin upon him, and it is hoped that what he accomplished in Ramadan will still be accepted. Allah, Exalted is He, knows best.

Entering the month of Ramadan

Question: Is there a specific supplication established in the Sunnah for the onset of the blessed month of Ramadan? What is required of a Muslim on that night? Please advise us, and may Allah bless you.

Answer: I am not aware of any particular supplication to be said when Ramadan begins; rather, one may offer the general supplication that is made for the arrival of any new month.