Can You Start a Relationship During Ramadan?

Arguments For Starting a Relationship During Ramadan

One of the core benefits of Ramadan is the heightened spiritual state of individuals. Many Muslims find that they are more mindful of their actions and intentions during this month, making it an ideal time to seek a partner with sincerity. If a person is actively seeking marriage and is focused on finding a spouse in a halal manner, Ramadan can provide the spiritual clarity needed to make a thoughtful decision.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“The most complete of the believers in faith are those with the best character.” (Tirmidhi 1162)

During Ramadan, individuals strive to improve their character and purify their hearts. Engaging in a relationship with the intention of marriage, while observing Islamic etiquette, can be a way to uphold the principles of good character, honesty, and sincerity.

Islam allows individuals to get to know potential spouses through halal means, such as supervised meetings or discussions with a wali (guardian). With the right approach, communication can be respectful, modest, and focused on compatibility rather than casual dating. This structured approach aligns with the values of Ramadan, where Muslims seek to control their desires and purify their intentions.

Ramadan is a time of increased ibadah (worship), and starting a relationship based on shared religious values can be beneficial. Engaging in meaningful discussions about deen, praying together, and encouraging one another to perform good deeds can set the foundation for a strong and faith-centred relationship.

Arguments Against Starting a Relationship During Ramadan

Ramadan is primarily a time for strengthening one’s relationship with Allah. Engaging in a new relationship could divert focus from ibadah, leading to excessive texting, emotional attachment, or thoughts about the relationship rather than devotion to Allah.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“When Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the devils are chained.” (Bukhari 1899, Muslim 1079)

This hadith highlights the spiritual significance of the month, encouraging believers to maximise their worship. Some scholars argue that prioritising personal relationships during this sacred time might reduce the full benefits of Ramadan.

Ramadan is a period of heightened self-control, including restraint from engaging in haram (forbidden) activities. Beginning a relationship, even with good intentions, may lead to temptation or inappropriate behaviour, such as excessive private communication, unnecessary physical contact, or emotional attachment that could compromise modesty.

The Quran advises:

“And do not even go near zina (fornication), for it is an outrageous act, and an evil way.” (Surah Al-Isra 17:32)

Even if zina itself is avoided, anything that leads towards it—such as overly intimate conversations or unsupervised meetings—should be prevented, especially during Ramadan.

Many scholars and religious figures advise that Ramadan should primarily be about self-improvement, spiritual purification, and strengthening taqwa (consciousness of Allah). Seeking personal fulfilment through a relationship could take away from self-reflection and growth.

“O you who have believed, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain taqwa.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183)

This verse emphasises that the purpose of fasting is to increase God-consciousness. If a relationship becomes a priority over self-improvement, it could be argued that one is missing the true essence of Ramadan.