In just a few days, Muslims around the world will enter the ninth month of the Islamic calendar - the holy month of Ramadan. Throughout the month, Muslims will fast from dawn to dusk. The opening prior to fasting is called Sahur and breaking the fast is called Iftar.

The Islamic tradition, considered the Five Pillars of Islam, is known to detoxify the soul and bring one closer to Allah. It is the time when the Holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Lasting for 30 days or one full month, Ramadhan is overall regarded as the time for spiritual reflection, self-control, and worship. Many also perform Umrah during Ramadhan. 

Aside from abstaining from food and drink, there are other things Muslims should and should not do. With only several days until Ramadhan, here are some do's and don'ts to help you make the most of the holy month.

The do's

• Recite to Quran: Recite to Quran: Ramadan is a time to communicate with the Almighty. Therefore, reciting the Holy Quran as many times as possible is recommended since you can reflect on the verses of the Holy Quran in your life.
• Encourage Unity:  Ramadan is the time of asking for forgiveness and forgiving. Use this time to promote unity among friends, family, and the community as a whole. It helps strengthen the bond as you pray and eat together.
• Dress appropriately: It is better to dress appropriately by avoiding revealing clothes as modesty is the key during these times.
• Show respect: No matter how tense things get, in addition to the feeling of hunger or thirst, one must be tolerant, compassionate, and forgiving. This is what Ramadan aims to teach the believers. The month of Ramadan should promote harmony and unity among Muslim communities all over the world.

The don'ts

• Don’t hold grudges: As previously stated, Ramadan is overall about forgiveness. Therefore, you shouldn’t hold grudges against anyone. During this period, you should also forgive and ask for forgiveness from the Almighty and others, like the elderly or perhaps someone you have mistreated in the past. If anyone has hurt your feelings, you should try to forgive them too.
• Don’t chew gum: During the Holy Month, it is best to refrain from chewing gum as it is considered breaking the fast. It is not permissible because of the sugar and other ingredients that the chewing gum contains, as you would be swallowing it. Another thing that you should not do during Ramadhan is smoking.
• Don't listen to loud music/songs: Respect the sentiments of those who are praying and fasting during the holy period. Listening to music at a loud volume can cause disruption and hindrance. Hence, use headphones to listen to music that is inaudible to those around you.