Q 5: Which is better to do during the daytime of the blessed month of Ramadan: recite the Qur’an or offer voluntary Salah (Prayer)?

A: Chief among the teachings of the Prophet (peace be upon him) during the month of Ramadan is that he used to offer much of the forms of ‘Ibadah (worship). Jibril (Gabriel, peace be upon him) used to meet him every night of Ramadan to rehearse the recitation of the Qur’an with him. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) was the most generous of all people, and in the month of Ramadan, when Jibril used to meet him, he was even more generous than the freely flowing wind, sent with rain and welfare. Thus, his generosity would peak in Ramadan. He would give much Sadaqah (voluntary charity), beneficences, recite the Qur’an, offer Salah, recite Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah), and observe I‘tikaf (seclusion for worship in a Masjid). Such was the Prophet’s code of conduct during this month. As for which is more rewarding, reading the Qur’an or offering voluntary Salah, this is something that differs according to the conditions of people, which is to be determined only by Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He), Who encompasses everything. (Part No. 4; Page No. 28) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and Companions.