Shaʽban is the eighth month of the Islamic Calendar. It is the month of “separation”, so called because the pagan Arabs used to disperse in search of water.
The fifteenth night of this month is known as the “Night of Records” (Laylat al Bara’at or Shabe Bara’at) However, observance of this day is disputed.
Sha’ban is the last lunar month before Ramadan, and so Muslims determine in it when the first day of Ramadan fasting will be. Lo! We revealed it on a blessed night. (44:3).
With Ramadan less than a month away, the excitement has started alhamdulilah. As many Muslims around the world prepare for Ramadan, they observe Sha’ban this month in preparation for the Holy month.
The status of Shabaan is also shown in the actions of Muhammad (saws) during this time, where he was infamous for his near continual fasting. Aisha (ra) narrated:
“The Messenger (saws) used to fast until we thought he would never break his fast, and not fast until we thought he would never fast. I never saw the Messenger of Allah fasting for an entire month except in Ramadan, and I never saw him fast more than he did in Sha’ban.” (Narrated by al-Bukhari and Muslim).
What you should remember to do this month!
Fast!
Increase your Dhikr
Read Qu’ran
Pray Tahajjud
Image credit – Toa Heftiba
The adventurous spirit behind the pages of British Muslim magazine. As the Editor-in-Chief, Natasha leads with a passion for exploration and a pen dipped in wanderlust. With a keen eye for halal travel experiences and an insatiable curiosity for new experiences, she brings readers along on captivating journeys to far-flung destinations. Through her vibrant storytelling, Natasha invites readers on enriching adventures, where every experience is a window into the muslim world.
