A Day in the Life of the Prophet ﷺ During Ramadan

Have you ever wondered how the best of creation, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, spent his days in Ramadan?

In contrast to how Ramadan is often observed today—filled with elaborate meals, social gatherings, and rest—the Prophet ﷺ lived this blessed month as it was meant to be: a time of devotion, simplicity, and deep connection with Allah.

His daily routine during Ramadan was a powerful reminder of what this sacred month is truly about—worship, self-discipline, generosity, and sincerity.

Suhoor: A Simple Start

The Prophet ﷺ would begin his day with Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, which he often kept light—sometimes just a few dates and water. He would delay Suhoor until just before Fajr, eating either with one of his wives or with companions. This act, though simple, held great blessing, as the Prophet ﷺ encouraged the Ummah to eat Suhoor, saying, “Eat Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is blessing.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

Fajr Prayer and Remembrance

After Suhoor, the Prophet ﷺ would remain at home until the Adhan for Fajr. He would pray two voluntary Rak'ahs at home and then head to the mosque to lead the Fajr congregation. After the prayer, he would stay in the masjid, engaging in dhikr (remembrance of Allah) until sunrise—a routine showing his dedication to starting the day with spiritual nourishment.

Daytime Devotion and Service

Even while fasting, the Prophet ﷺ remained active and present in his household and community. He would assist his wives with chores and attend the mosque for obligatory prayers. Aisha (RA) reported that he helped with household duties—mending clothes, milking goats, and participating in daily tasks. His fasting never reduced his sense of responsibility or kindness.

Iftar: Breaking the Fast with Gratitude

As Maghrib approached, the Prophet ﷺ would engage in dhikr and make du’a. At the time of Iftar, he would break his fast at home, usually with dates. If no dates were available, he would use plain water. Afterwards, he would pray Maghrib at the mosque and return home for the Sunnah prayer. This showed his balance between fulfilling religious obligations and sharing special moments with his family.

Isha and Taraweeh Prayers

The Prophet ﷺ would pray Isha at the mosque, leading the congregation. For three nights, he prayed Taraweeh publicly at Masjid Nabawi but later chose to pray at home, fearing it might become compulsory for the Ummah. His decision reflected his mercy and thoughtfulness for his followers.

Night Worship

The nights of the Prophet ﷺ were filled with worship. He would sleep for a portion of the night and rise to pray Tahajjud, ending with Witr. His dedication in the stillness of the night reflected his longing for Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.

Qur’an and Charity

Ramadan was a time when the Prophet ﷺ increased his recitation of the Qur’an. He would recite all the revealed verses up to that point, and Angel Jibreel would review the Qur’an with him every Ramadan. Alongside his Qur’anic connection, his generosity would reach its peak. Ibn Abbas (RA) said: “The Prophet ﷺ was the most generous of people, and he was even more generous during Ramadan… like a blowing wind.” (Bukhari)

The Last Ten Nights

In the final ten nights of Ramadan, the Prophet ﷺ would intensify his worship. He would perform I’tikaf, devote his nights to dhikr, du’a, and prayer, and encourage his family to do the same. He sought Laylatul Qadr with full focus, spending the entire night in worship, leaving behind worldly distractions.

A Model for Us All

The Prophet’s ﷺ Ramadan was not centred around indulgence or comfort—it was a time of spiritual renewal, discipline, and nearness to Allah.

We take inspiration from his example:

• Less distraction, more prayer.

• Less indulgence, more gratitude.

• Less of the dunya, and more of the ākhirah.

As we approach this Ramadan, may we reflect on the beautiful balance of devotion, family, community, and simplicity that marked the Prophet’s ﷺ days. May it inspire us to realign our hearts and habits with what truly matters.