The most anticipated time of the year for Muslims around the world is fast approaching. “A month of goodness and blessing” according to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, Ramadan is not only a time for fasting, but also a time for extra repentance, reflection, and devotion; a time for extra worship, prayer, and charity; and a time if taken advantage of properly, will be the starting point for a positive change within us.

This short course is an ideal way to prepare for the coming of this blessed month. Beginning with an introduction to Ramadan so that we understand the larger meaning and significance of Ramadan, the course will cover the sunnas of fasting; the inner dimensions of fasting; extra things we must keep in mind; and how to apply the lessons learned from Ramadan to the rest of the year. Special issues pertaining to women, new Muslims, and busy schedules will also be covered.  While fiqh issues are not the focus of this course, questions according to the Hanafi and Shafi'i schools of law can be posted and will be answered on the forum.

Let this Ramadan be the start of an entire year, indeed an entire lifetime, of good works and sincerity.

Lesson 1: General Introduction to Ramadan

• Introduction to the course
• Planning ahead for Ramadan: why?
• Larger meaning and significance of Ramadan
• Benefits of Ramadan and virtues of fasting, with an examination of relevant Qur'anic verses and Prophetic traditions

Lesson 2: Etiquettes of Fasting

• Recommended and desirable acts to do while fasting
• Remembering Allah, improving one’s relationship with the Quran, and being vigilant about one"s interactions
• Imam Ghazali’s inner dimensions of fasting

Lesson 3: How to Make the Most of Ramadan

• What does an ideal Ramadan look like?
• How can I balance this ideal with the realities of my life?
• Making the most of Ramadan in a non-Muslim environment
• Special issues for women, new Muslims, and people with busy schedules
• How can I apply Ramadan lessons to my life?
• Looking ahead to next year

• Weekly live lessons will be conducted by Shaykh Sohail Hanif.
• All live lessons will be recorded, so that you can hear lessons that you may miss or review key concepts.
• Printable course slides will add structure to lessons.
• You can post questions and engage in discussion in the course forum.
• Shaykh Sohail will hold weekly office hours.