Salem Al Doubi: Renew intentions, stay energised in Ramadan

March 05, 2026 / 4:27 PM

Sharjah 24: As part of the Ramadan episodes of the programme Reflections of Faith, broadcast on Sharjah 24, Sheikh Dr Salem Al Doubi, Head of the Preaching and Fatwa Section at the Sharjah Department of Islamic Affairs, addressed in the sixth episode the topic of lethargy during Ramadan and how to overcome it. He highlighted this phenomenon, which some fasting individuals may experience during the holy month, and provided a set of faith-based guidelines to help Muslims make the most of Ramadan.

Recognising lethargy during Ramadan

Al Doubi explained that Ramadan is a great season for acts of worship and a field for competing in good deeds. Yet, by human nature, one may experience moments of lethargy or weakened motivation after the first few days of the month, due to changes in routine or preoccupation with daily responsibilities. He emphasised that this state is not unusual for the human psyche but requires awareness and sincere willpower to ensure it does not affect one’s continuity in worship and righteous deeds.

He pointed out that the main causes of lethargy include a weak awareness of the purpose of worship, excessive preoccupation with worldly matters, and poor time management. Ramadan, he stressed, provides a tremendous opportunity to renew one’s relationship with Allah, and to spiritually and faith-wise elevate oneself through increased worship and righteous actions.

Strategies to overcome lethargy

Al Doubi highlighted that key ways to overcome lethargy include renewing one’s intention and reflecting on the immense reward and blessing of the holy month. He recommended diversifying acts of worship — such as Quran recitation, dhikr (remembrance of Allah), supplication, charity, maintaining family ties, performing prayers on time, and night prayers — explaining that variety in worship renews spiritual energy and motivates the soul to continue in devotion.

He also stressed the importance of organising time and establishing a balanced daily programme that accommodates work, rest, and worship, enabling Muslims to make the most of Ramadan hours in activities that benefit them and bring them closer to Allah, without excess or neglect. He urged making full use of the blessed days and avoiding wasting them on matters that hold no lasting benefit.

Learning from the righteous predecessors

Al Doubi noted that the righteous predecessors used to approach Ramadan with strong determination, seizing every moment in worship and devotion, reflecting the month’s profound significance in their hearts. He emphasised that Muslims should emulate their diligence and perseverance, remembering that Ramadan’s days are limited and pass quickly.

About Reflections of Faith

The programme Reflections of Faith is part of the religious content offered by Sharjah 24 during Ramadan. Each episode addresses a faith-based and educational topic, reinforcing Islamic values and delivering awareness messages that help embed the meanings of worship and positive behaviour in society.