Central Khutbah: “Ramadan in the Light of the Qur’an”

Between the Qur’an and the month of Ramadan there exists an inseparable connection. It was during this very month that the revelation of Allah’s Book began, which gives the recitation of the Qur’an in Ramadan a special place in the life of the believer. Allah, the Most High, has decreed that the year consists of twelve months, and this order is not the result of human agreement or scientific calculation, but of divine decree. The Most High says:
“The number of months with Allah is twelve, in the Book of Allah, from the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred” (At-Tawbah, 36).
Although Ramadan is not among these sacred months, it holds a special status due to the events and acts of worship associated with it.

It is noteworthy that Ramadan is mentioned only once in the Qur’an, and precisely in the context of the revelation of the Qur’an. The Most High says:
“The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs of guidance and criterion…” (Al-Baqarah, 185).
This verse reveals the essence of Ramadan’s value: its uniqueness stems from its connection to the Qur’an, the Book of guidance that brought humanity the light of truth and clear criteria between right and wrong.

In the same verse, another fundamental reason for the distinctiveness of Ramadan is mentioned: the obligation of fasting. The Most High says:
“…So whoever of you sights the month, let him fast it…” (Al-Baqarah, 185).
Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam and an obligation upon every بالغ (adult) and sane Muslim, except those who have a valid excuse. Thus, Ramadan acquires a profound spiritual dimension, as fasting is not merely abstaining from food and drink, but an act of worship that purifies the heart, disciplines the individual, and brings them closer to their Lord.

The great value of this month is further emphasized by the fact that it contains a night better than a thousand months: the Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr), during which the revelation of the Qur’an began. The Most High says:
“Indeed, We sent it down during the Night of Decree. And what will make you know what the Night of Decree is? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months” (Al-Qadr, 1–3).
This night represents the pinnacle of the spiritual experience of Ramadan and an opportunity for forgiveness, mercy, and closeness to Allah.

In the context of the verses about fasting, the Most High also reveals one of the most beautiful verses concerning His closeness to His servants:
“And when My servants ask you concerning Me—indeed I am near. I respond to the call of the supplicant when he calls upon Me. So let them respond to Me and believe in Me that they may be rightly guided” (Al-Baqarah, 186).
This verse reminds us that Ramadan is not only a month of worship, but also a time of special spiritual closeness between الإنسان (the human being) and his Lord, through supplication, repentance, and sincere devotion.

The Qur’an also clearly indicates the purpose of fasting: attaining piety (taqwa). The Most High says:
“O you who believe! Fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain piety” (Al-Baqarah, 183).
Thus, Ramadan is a school of self-discipline and consciousness of Allah. Through fasting, recitation of the Qur’an, supplication, and good deeds, the believer learns to control desires and strengthen their spiritual connection with their Lord.

Among the acts of worship particularly associated with Ramadan is i‘tikaf — seclusion in the mosque for devotion and worship of Allah. The Qur’an mentions this act in the following words:
“And We commanded Abraham and Ishmael: Purify My House for those who perform ṭawāf, stay there for devotion (i‘tikaf), and bow and prostrate” (Al-Baqarah, 125).
It also outlines its rules:
“And do not have relations with them while you are in i‘tikaf in the mosques. These are the limits set by Allah, so do not approach them” (Al-Baqarah, 187).
These verses show that i‘tikaf is a special opportunity for a person to fully dedicate themselves to worship and spiritual renewal.

Considering all these Qur’anic verses, it becomes clear that Ramadan in the Qur’an is not presented merely as a month of fasting, but as a time of the revelation of the Qur’an, spiritual closeness to Allah, repentance, supplication, and the cultivation of piety. That is why Ramadan remains the month in which the believer renews their connection with the Qur’an, deepens their faith, and finds the strength to direct their life toward what leads to the pleasure of Allah.

(Central khutbah by the religious leader Hafiz Hilmija Redžić on February 20, 2026, at the “Centre Islamique au Luxembourg” in Contern)