4 Worthwhile Activities While Waiting for Prayer Time

For some, waiting for Maghrib or sunset prayer time could be a struggle, especially when partnered with the day-long fasting that accompanies Ramadan. And while the knee-jerk response is to sleep until prayer time comes to avoid hunger, there are other ways to make most of your time.

Wondering how to spend the hours before prayer time wisely? We got you covered. Here are some things you can do so you don’t have to focus on the clock.

1. Read the Quran

Ramadan is celebrated by Muslims as the sacred month when the Prophet Mohammed received the first verses of the Quran from God. This would be the perfect time to go through the Quran and learn more about its contents. Plus, if you have kids, you can also take this time to read along with them for formative learning and a strong bonding experience before prayer time.

One thing great about fasting is that it can help you remember more information for longer periods. According to some studies, fasting can improve brain functions, including long-term memory and recall skills. When partnered with reading, this should allow you to remember more of what you read.

2. Participate in Community Activities

Brotherhood and compassion are some notable qualities that this holy month encourages. With that in mind, offering some of your wealth or time not only develops one’s character but also keeps your eyes away from the clock.

Another way to make the most out of the hours before prayer time is to join events held within your community. Whether through your local mosque, non-profit organizations, or even via your group of friends, helping others out during this season is an important task. This can also lead to building new and beneficial relationships within the community.

Take time to organize or mobilize charity events. Talk to community heads and see how you can help out. Or, if you’re at it, spend a few hours at the local shelter and share what you have.

3. Catch Up With Family and Friends

The past two years have been rough for close-knit families, especially since the pandemic required us to stay indoors. Why not take advantage of the season and schedule a get-together with loved ones and close friends?

Planning get-togethers are a great way to burn the hours, especially when you have to prepare and coordinate with everyone for the gathering. You can even set this after Maghrib, where you can share a hearty meal after an activity-filled day and gather for prayer time.

4. Plan Ahead

Going through the sacred month unprepared could cause some unwanted side effects, especially for recent converts on their first Ramadan. Without proper planning, fasting reduces your energy for the day, reducing productivity and lack of focus.

Instead, why don’t you plan your meals to make sure they help you last the day? Check out some recipes online and make a simple meal plan to cover your dietary needs. This could also help those with medical conditions, like ulcers or diabetes, to manage their day without crashing.

Aside from meal prep, you can also set a calendar for your daily activities throughout the month. That way, you don’t overexert yourself with long, busy days and have enough energy for prayer time.

You’ll Get There in No Time

More than fasting, Ramadan is all about celebrating life and community. Focusing on the clock ticking during this time spoils your well-being and the potential for character growth. Take this sacred time as a season to reflect, learn, and reconnect.