Welcoming the month of Sha’ban - British Muslim Magazine

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).

Image credit – Sergei Solovev

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