Preparing The Heart to Welcome The Holy Month

The study session titled “Setting the Self, Welcoming the Month of Ramadan,” delivered by Imam Nuryanto on Saturday, February 14, 2026, was warm and meaningful. The event began with praise to Allah ﷻ and blessings upon Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. In his relaxed, humorous, yet insightful manner, he reminded the audience that Ramadan is not merely an annual occurrence, but a significant momentum to improve the quality of faith and a Muslim’s life. Often, people are more preoccupied with preparing physical needs such as iftar meals, new clothes, or annual traditions, while neglecting the preparation of the heart and spiritual readiness to welcome the holy month.

In his presentation, he emphasized that the obligation of fasting has been clearly stated in the Qur’an, particularly in Surah Al-Baqarah verse 183, which affirms that the main purpose of fasting is to develop piety. Fasting is not only about refraining from food and drink, but also about guarding one’s speech, gaze, heart, and controlling emotions. It serves as spiritual training that cultivates patience, sincerity, and self-discipline. Moreover, fasting fosters social empathy, as Muslims directly experience hunger and thirst, reminding them of those who live in hardship and encouraging greater compassion and generosity.

Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of preparing for Ramadan by purifying intentions solely for the sake of Allah, equipping oneself with knowledge about the rulings of fasting, and cleansing the heart from envy, hatred, and resentment. Increasing the recitation of the Qur’an, charity, and voluntary prayers before Ramadan arrives can help make acts of worship more consistent and meaningful during the blessed month. Ultimately, Ramadan is a month of spiritual education and transformation. It is hoped that all participants will welcome it with both physical and spiritual readiness, so that the ultimate goal of fasting—attaining piety—can truly be realized in daily life.