At Sha’ban is an important month in the Islamic calendar as it comes before Ramadan, the holiest month for Muslims. In Sha’ban, Muslims prepare themselves spiritually for Ramadan. It’s a time for increased worship, seeking forgiveness, and becoming better people. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) encouraged us to make the most of our time for spiritual growth. In fact, it was mentioned in a hadith that the Prophet never fasted in any month more than in the month of Sha’ban. 

He used to say, “Do those deeds which you can do easily, as Allah will not get tired (of giving rewards) till you get bored and tired (of performing religious deeds).” The most beloved act of worship to the Prophet (SAW) was the one that was done regularly (throughout the life) even if it were little. And whenever the Prophet offered a prayer he used to offer it regularly. (Quoted from the famous collection of Forty Hadith by Imam Nawawi)

In today’s day and age, technology plays a big part in our lives. It helps us do many things, including practising our faith. With technology, we can blend traditional practices with modern tools. This helps us stay connected to our religion in today’s fast-paced world.

Sha’ban, being a special month, gives us the chance to reflect and improve ourselves spiritually. 

8 Easy Digital Steps to Prepare for Ramadan in Sha’ban:

1. Schedule time for Ibadah using Calendar Apps

Make sure you mark specific times for Sahur, Iftar, and Taraweeh prayers in your calendar app. This helps you focus better on your religious practices during Ramadan. Even though work is important, finding a balance between work and worship is necessary for Muslims. By planning ahead, you can organize your day to include these important spiritual activities without interruptions.

Setting aside these special times not only helps you stay organized but also ensures you give priority to your spiritual growth during Ramadan. By dedicating time for Sahur, Iftar, and Taraweeh, you can fully engage in prayer and reflection, deepening your connection to your faith and experiencing the blessings of Ramadan in a meaningful way.

2. Read the Quran on the go

Instead of scrolling through social media mindlessly, why don’t you scroll the digital Quran that’s available in the Muslim Pro app? There are so many benefits to reading the Quran and digitalisation has definitely made it much more convenient for us to do so. It was mentioned in the Quran itself:

“Whenever you read the Quran, We place a hidden curtain between you and those who do not believe in the Hereafter.” – Al-Isra 17:45

With the Muslim Pro app, you can easily read the Quran through your phone while commuting or waiting in line. The app offers translations in 40+ different languages, recitations, and daily verses right from the palm of your hand. 

On top of that, we also have a ton of new features coming in Ramadan 2024 that will definitely help you towards your Quran learning journey. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed of our new features and announcements!

3. Conduct a Digital Declutter

During the months leading up to Ramadan, consider stepping away from social media platforms to devote more time to nurturing your spirituality. Evaluate your digital habits and remove apps that do not contribute positively to your well-being or spiritual growth. This intentional cleansing of digital clutter can be considered a detox for your soul.

By staying away from social media, you can spend more time reflecting, praying, and feeling closer to your faith. Use this time to do things that are important to you, like reading verses from the Quran, performing taraweeh or spending time with family.

Taking a break from social media helps you clear your mind and feel more peaceful inside. It’s a chance to reset your priorities and feel happier. As you take this break, may you find comfort and clarity in reconnecting with what truly matters to you.

4. Set notifications on your phone as reminders

Maximize the potential of the Muslim Pro app to prompt you with essential reminders for your spiritual practice.

The app offers various features to help you remember Allah throughout your day. One such feature is the Daily Deen, which sends notifications containing audio recitations of the Quran. Taking just a minute of your day to disconnect from worldly distractions and reconnect with your faith by reciting these verses can greatly enhance your spiritual journey.

Concerned about missing prayer times? Make use of the customized pre-adhan reminders within the notification settings of the Muslim Pro app. These reminders ensure you receive timely notifications before the call to prayer, helping you manage your schedule and prioritize your religious obligations. 

As mentioned in the Quran,

“So woe unto those performers (hypocrites) of Salat (prayers), who delay their Salat (prayer) from their stated fixed times.” – Al-Ma’un 07:4/5

Setting reminders allows you to maintain focus and motivation, ensuring consistent engagement with your faith practices. By integrating these smartphone reminders into your daily routine, you can cultivate a deeper connection to your faith and stay committed to your spiritual growth journey.

5. Watch Online Webinars or Live Streams

Tune in to live streams of Islamic lectures by scholars from different parts of the world. Many Muslim organisations and societies will likely host online events with topics that matter during this time. 

Check with your local mosques to see if they have any such events scheduled, and make time to join them. You can gain valuable insights and knowledge from the wisdom shared by these scholars during these sessions.

Anas ibn Malik reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said:

“Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim.”  – Source: Sunan Ibn Mājah, Grade: Sahih

“Whoever goes out seeking knowledge is in the way of Allah until he returns.” Source: Sunan al-Tirmidhī, Grade: Sahih

Intentionally seek online events that allow you to learn more about Islam and gather advice from scholars. By taking part, you can also connect with other Muslims worldwide. Use these opportunities to grow spiritually and feel part of the global Muslim community.

6. Use Digital Dhikr Counters

During these months, strengthen your connection to Allah by using digital tools to help you remember and praise Him throughout Sha’ban. It keeps you focused on your faith and mindful of your spirituality.

In the Muslim Pro App, you’ll discover a digital tasbih that you can personalize by choosing your favorite color and selecting the dhikr you want to recite. Additionally, you’ll find a collection of duas and daily supplications to aid you in your spiritual journey.

7. Create Quranic playlists

Immerse yourself in the soothing recitations of the Quran while you go about your daily tasks. Listening to these recitations can bring a sense of calm and peace, helping to ease stress and uplift your spirits. 

With the Muslim Pro App, you can craft personalized playlists featuring your favorite surahs from the Quran. Tailor your playlists to suit different moods or purposes, allowing you to access spiritual nourishment wherever you go.

8. Connect with other Muslims around the globe

If you find yourself as the only Muslim in your family or neighborhood, it can sometimes feel isolating. However, technology offers a solution by enabling you to connect virtually with Muslims around the world.

Consider joining online groups like The Courtyard by Muslim Pro, where you can engage with Muslims from diverse backgrounds. Participating in discussions about the significance of Sha’ban, experiences of Ramadan in different countries, or any relevant topics can foster a sense of connection with others who share your faith. While virtual connections may not replicate physical gatherings, they still provide valuable opportunities for community and camaraderie.

Let’s take these steps and prepare for Ramadan

Living in the digital age, we have to find ways to use technology wisely and balance our screen time with our spiritual activities. There is absolutely nothing wrong in being connected virtually, as long as we ensure that our online interactions align with the teachings of Islam, our faith, and our values.

In fact, technology could help us be more efficient during Ramadan. We can plan ahead using digital tools, find online resources, connect with Muslims celebrating Ramadan around the world, and even donate to our preferred charities through various online portals. 

Sha’ban is a time to prepare our hearts and minds for Ramadan. With the help of technology, we can make this preparation easier and more meaningful. Let’s use digital tools mindfully and stay connected to our faith in this digital age. May the lessons learned and practices cultivated during Sha’ban lead us to a fulfilling Ramadan filled with spiritual growth and reflection. Insha’Allah.