Ramadan is often celebrated as the “month of reading,” a phrase that carries a depth far beyond its surface meaning. At its very core, Islam began with the divine command Iqra!—”Read!”—a moment that ignited an enduring reverence for knowledge, introspection, and spiritual growth. Today, this sacred tradition continues as Muslims immerse themselves in scripture, reflection, and learning, embracing books that nourish the soul and the mind. From Quranic recitations to personal development guides and children’s journals to cherished cookbooks, Ramadan transforms reading into devotion, connection, and renewal.

Ramadan, the sacred month brimming with divine purpose, is often celebrated as a “month of reading”—a phrase that holds layers of meaning more profound than the surface reveals. The very foundation of Islam itself began with a single, electrifying command: Iqra!—”Read!” The word thundered through the stillness as the angel Jibreel delivered this instruction to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), igniting an eternal reverence for knowledge, introspection, and spiritual ascension.

Muslims come together across continents and time zones in a symphony of recitation, their voices weaving the Quran’s verses into the air of homes, mosques, and quiet corners of workplaces. This isn’t just an individual act; it’s an almost cosmic alignment, a spiritual heartbeat shared by over 1.9 billion people. The Quran isn’t merely read—it’s absorbed, dissected, and pondered, a companion for those searching for guidance and clarity in the labyrinth of life.

But the beauty of Ramadan doesn’t rest solely in the divine. It spills over into the secular, where self-help philosophies merge seamlessly with sacred lessons. Consider the timeless strategies of thinkers like Stephen Covey or James Clear—concepts like intentional living, habit-building, and discipline. Ramadan, with its unyielding rhythm of fasting and prayer, aligns perfectly with these principles. It’s a reset, a sharpening of focus, a bridge between spiritual devotion and personal transformation.

For families, this month unfolds as a canvas for instilling lasting values in their children’s hearts. Kids Ramadan Journals become the unsung heroes, guiding young minds to catalog their thoughts, capture good deeds, and shape aspirations. Through lively prompts and engaging activities, children are gently introduced to patience, gratitude, and charity, all while having fun. Pair this with Stories from the Quran, and bedtime becomes a gateway of wonder—tales rich with lessons, sparking curiosity and embedding morals as effortlessly as a river carves its path through the stone.

For adults, the solace of Dua Books is unmatched. Each supplication, plucked from the Quran or Hadith, becomes a lifeline in moments of reflection. These pocket-sized companions whisper a reminder: even in chaos, pause. Seek. Speak to the Creator. There’s power in asking, strength in surrender, and an unspoken depth in knowing your voice is heard, even when the world feels deafening.

And then there’s the unique dynamism of Ramadan in a place like the UAE—a swirling mosaic of cultures and curiosities. Non-Muslim friends and neighbors, drawn to the mystique of this holy month, often turn to books to understand its essence. Through Islamic literature, bridges of understanding are built, connections that transcend faith and nationality. Words become threads, binding communities in shared curiosity and respect.

But wait—this isn’t just about scripture and supplication. In kitchens everywhere, another form of reading takes center stage. Cookbooks burst open, their pages splattered with the evidence of culinary exploration. From the sizzle of samosas to the delicate artistry of fusion dishes, families turn fasting into feasting. The creativity poured into Iftar spreads its form of devotion, where tradition dances with innovation, and every dish tells a story.

Ramadan reading is a kaleidoscope—shifting, multi-faceted, endlessly captivating. The Quran guides souls, journals capturing thoughts, cookbooks sparking flavor-filled celebrations, and stories connecting generations. Each page turned is a step toward growth, gratitude, and connection.

At Bookends, we’re humbled to be part of this journey, curating collections that resonate deeply during this sacred time. Whether you’re reflecting on scripture, jotting dreams in a journal, or mastering a new recipe, let the words you encounter this month illuminate your path. Ramadan is more than fasting or feasting—a symphony of thought, action, and connection.

In these 30 days, reading transforms. It becomes a thread of hope, a call to action, a whisper urging you to grow. Whether short or long, sacred or every day, let the sentences you engage with this Ramadan be the spark of something profound.

A Trumpet Blower contributes this piece:  Somia Anwar and Grace Karim are owners of Bookends, a preloved bookstore in Dubai. It is the largest marketplace for preloved books, founded in 2020. After three successful years as an online store, Bookends officially opened its first physical location in Dubai Silicon Oasis in July 2023.