Family relationship expert Tehani Al-Rashidi explains that marriage inevitably goes through challenges, but the key is handling them wisely and transforming them into opportunities for greater harmony. Ramadan is a month of mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual growth, yet conflicts may increase due to hunger, thirst, financial pressure, and household demands—especially before iftar. Therefore, couples should avoid heated daytime discussions, lower material expectations, support one another, and embrace the spirit of patience and kindness that defines the month.
Why Do Marital Conflicts Increase During Ramadan?
1. Irritability and Quick Anger
Fasting can lower blood sugar levels and cause dehydration and fatigue. These physical changes may reduce tolerance and emotional control, leading to quicker tempers and misunderstandings.
2. Kitchen and Household Pressures
Increased cooking, frequent gatherings, and added expectations can overwhelm one partner—often the wife. Financial strain on the husband and last-minute food demands before iftar may also create tension.
3. Financial Burdens
Ramadan often brings higher expenses: food, sweets, family invitations, and Eid preparations. Without a clear financial plan, disagreements about spending can escalate.
4. Increased Family Interactions
More visits and social obligations may invite outside interference or comparison with other families, creating added stress within the relationship.
5. Differences in Time Priorities
One spouse may focus on worship and night prayers, while the other prioritizes rest, household duties, or entertainment. These differences can cause friction in managing daily schedules.
6. Physical and Emotional Exhaustion
Fatigue becomes more intense during Ramadan due to altered sleep patterns and added responsibilities. Ongoing exhaustion may cause small issues to escalate into larger conflicts.
Effective Strategies for Managing Marital Conflicts in Ramadan
1. Practice Self-Control and Calmness
Fasting is an opportunity to discipline the self. Techniques such as deep breathing, changing posture (sitting or lying down), making ablution (wudu), or washing the face with cool water can help calm anger. Staying hydrated between iftar and suhoor and avoiding high-sugar foods can also reduce irritability. Engaging in remembrance (dhikr) and prayer promotes inner peace.
2. Postpone Heated Discussions
If tension rises, suggest postponing the conversation until after iftar or Taraweeh prayers when hunger and fatigue have subsided. Avoid addressing sensitive topics during moments of anger.
3. Embrace Forgiveness and Patience
Ramadan is a time for purifying the heart. Taking the initiative to reconcile, overlooking minor mistakes, and forgiving quickly prevent resentment from overshadowing the month’s blessings.
4. Develop Emotional Intelligence
Understanding that fatigue and hunger influence behavior helps prevent overreaction. Practice active listening, empathy, and reframing situations positively instead of responding impulsively.
5. Overlook Minor Mistakes
Let go of small issues—such as an imperfect meal or minor misunderstanding. Following the example of patience and mercy strengthens love and reduces unnecessary tension.
6. Share Responsibilities
Cooperation in preparing iftar, managing guests, and organizing household duties reduces physical and financial strain. Shared effort strengthens affection and creates teamwork within the home. Involving children in Ramadan preparations can also enhance family unity.
7. Engage in Shared Worship
Praying together, reading the Qur’an, breaking the fast side by side, and attending Taraweeh prayers together deepen spiritual and emotional bonds. Shared worship transforms Ramadan into a time of renewed love and closeness.
Final Thought
Ramadan should be a season of mercy, compassion, and emotional renewal within marriage. While hunger and fatigue may test patience, couples who approach the month with awareness, cooperation, and forgiveness can turn potential conflicts into opportunities for deeper understanding and stronger connection.
The essence of Ramadan is not only fasting from food—but also fasting from anger, harsh words, and resentment.
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