Explained: During Ramadan the Gates of Jannah are open & the gates of

What Did the Prophet ﷺ Say About Ramadan?

Ramadan is the most sacred month in Islam, a time of mercy, forgiveness, and immense reward. One of the most well-known hadiths about its virtues states:

The Prophet ﷺ said:
“When Ramadan comes, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.”
(Bukhari & Muslim)

As Muslims, we believe that every authentic hadith of the Prophet ﷺ is the truth. However, scholars have discussed how this happens—whether in a way that is visible to us or in a way that affects us spiritually.

Are the Gates of Jannah Literally Open During Ramadan?

Yes, the gates of Jannah are truly opened during Ramadan, as stated in the hadith. This means that Allah’s mercy is abundantly available to those who seek it. Every good deed is multiplied, every dua is more accepted, and the opportunities for attaining Jannah are greater than at any other time of the year.

Allah’s mercy is always present, but in Ramadan, it is at its peak. This should motivate us to increase our worship, as the doors of forgiveness and guidance are wide open.

Why Are the Gates of Hell Closed in Ramadan?

Just as Jannah’s doors are opened, the doors of Hell are closed, making it harder for believers to fall into sin. The atmosphere of Ramadan shifts towards righteousness—fasting, prayer, charity, and repentance become the focus, naturally reducing sins.

However, this does not mean that no one sins during Ramadan. Rather, Allah has given us an advantage—the ability to turn away from sin is easier, and the distractions that normally pull us towards disobedience are greatly reduced.

Are the Devils Really Chained in Ramadan?

Yes, we believe that the devils are chained in Ramadan as the Prophet ﷺ stated. However, scholars have discussed what this means in practice:

Some scholars say it is literal—Shayateen are physically chained, restricting their ability to spread mischief as they do outside of Ramadan.
Others say it refers to their influence being reduced—since believers are more engaged in worship, their whispers are weaker, making it harder for them to misguide people.

What we know for certain is that Shaytan’s power is significantly weakened in this month, and this is an opportunity for us to free ourselves from his influence.

Does This Mean No One Sins During Ramadan?

Even though Shaytan is chained, people can still commit sins. Why? Because:

Humans have nafs (inner desires) that can lead them astray.
Not everyone benefits equally from Ramadan—some people do not engage in worship and may still fall into bad habits.
Not all devils may be restrained—some scholars explain that while the major devils (Maradat al-Shayateen) are chained, smaller ones may still whisper.

This means that while Shaytan is significantly weakened, our own self-discipline and efforts play a role in staying on the right path.

How Should We Act Upon This Hadith?

The hadith is a reminder that Allah has made it easier for us to do good in Ramadan. If the doors of Jannah are open, we should strive to enter! If Hell’s gates are closed, we should make sure we never return to sin! If Shaytan is restrained, we should use this time to strengthen our connection with Allah!

Ways to Make the Most of Ramadan:

Increase our salah (prayer)—pray Taraweeh, Tahajjud, and improve our khushu’.
Recite and reflect on the Qur’an—this is the month of revelation.
Seek forgiveness (istighfar) and make dua, especially at iftar and in the last 10 nights.
Give in charity (sadaqah)—Ramadan is a month of generosity.
Control our tongue and actions—fasting is not just from food but from bad habits.

Final Thoughts: A Time for Mercy & Change

This hadith is a powerful reminder that Allah’s mercy is overflowing in Ramadan. The path to Jannah is made easier, the distractions of Shaytan are reduced, and the doors of forgiveness are wide open.

But the question remains: Will we take advantage of this opportunity?

May Allah grant us the ability to benefit fully from Ramadan, protect us from sin, and allow us to enter Jannah through its open doors.

And Allah knows best.