Preparing the Heart for Ramadan
As we draw closer to Ramadan, one of the greatest preparations we can make is not only with our schedules or meals, but with our hearts. True readiness for this blessed month begins by cleansing the heart from resentment, anger, and grudges that may have accumulated over time.
The lives of the righteous offer powerful examples of this inner purification. Al Hasan ibn Al Hasan once said that a rift occurred between him and his cousin, Zayn al Abidin, May Allah be pleased with them both. He went to him while his anger was boiling inside him. Zayn al Abidin was sitting in the mosque with his companions, and Al Hasan did not leave a single harsh word unsaid. Zayn al Abidin remained completely silent and did not respond. Then Al Hasan walked away. Later that night, someone knocked on his door. When he opened it, it was Zayn al Abidin. Al Hasan thought he had come to respond to the harm, but instead Zayn al Abidin said, “My brother, if what you said about me is true, then may Allah forgive me. And if it is not true, then may Allah forgive you.” He then greeted him with peace and left. Al Hasan followed him and said, “I promise I will never again do anything that would upset you.” Zayn al Abidin softened toward him and replied, “And you are absolved of everything you said to me.”
In another incident, one of the people of Madinah also narrated that Zayn al Abidin was once leaving the mosque when he followed him and began insulting him without even knowing why. The people became angry and rushed forward, ready to seize him. Zayn al Abidin turned to them and said, “Leave the man alone,” so they backed away. When he saw how frightened the man was, Zayn al Abidin approached him with a calm and gentle face, reassuring him and easing his fear. Then he said, “You have insulted us for what you know about us, but what Allah has concealed of our faults is far greater.” He then asked, “Do you have any need that we can help you with?” The man felt ashamed and could not speak. When Zayn al Abidin noticed his embarrassment, he placed his cloak over him and gave him one thousand dirhams. From that day on, whenever the man saw him, he would say, “I bear witness that you are truly among the descendants of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ.”
These stories are living examples of hearts purified through forgiveness, humility, and mercy. Allah describes the people of Paradise in beautiful words: “And We will remove whatever is in their hearts of resentment, and they will be brothers and sisters, facing one another on thrones.” (Al-Hijr: 47) This verse reminds us that Jannah is not only comfort for the body, but peace for the heart. There is no envy, hatred, or bitterness — only love, unity, and tranquility.
As we approach the middle of Shaaban, a month in which deeds are presented to Allah, we are reminded of another profound teaching of the Prophet ﷺ: that Allah forgives the people of the earth on this night, except those who associate partners with Him and those who harbor hatred in their hearts. It is as though Allah is inviting us to enter Ramadan with hearts free of grudges.
The Prophet ﷺ emphasized that reconciling between people is greater in reward than voluntary fasting, prayer, and charity, while sowing division is like a razor that shaves away faith itself. This makes one truth clear: no act of worship flourishes in a heart filled with resentment.
So where do we begin?
We start with those closest to us — our parents, siblings, spouses, children, relatives, neighbors, and friends. We seek forgiveness. We forgive sincerely. We repair what has been broken. Then we extend that mercy to the wider community.
Ramadan is not only a month of hunger and thirst. It is a month of healing hearts, restoring relationships, and returning to Allah with souls that are clean and humble. Let us prepare not only our homes and tables, but our hearts — so we may enter Ramadan lighter, purer, and closer to Allah.
Imam Jafar Hawa
The Mosque Foundation
February 1, 2026