The Virtues of the Month of Sha’ban and Recommended Practices

The month of Sha’ban is the eighth month in the Islamic Hijri calendar, a time filled with blessings and significance. Alongside Rajab and Ramadan, Sha’ban holds its own unique virtues that should not be overlooked. It is reported that the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) would increase his acts of worship during this month as a way of preparing for Ramadan. Sha’ban is also known as the month when human deeds are raised to Allah (SWT). Let’s explore the virtues of Sha’ban and the recommended practices to observe during this blessed time.

The Virtues of Sha’ban

1. The Elevation of Deeds

One of the greatest virtues of Sha’ban is that it is the month when human deeds are presented to Allah (SWT). As narrated in a hadith by Imam Nasa’i and Abu Dawud, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:

“Sha’ban is a month people often neglect, as it falls between Rajab and Ramadan. During this month, deeds are raised to the Lord of the worlds, and I wish for my deeds to be elevated while I am fasting.” (HR. Nasa’i & Abu Dawud)

For this reason, Muslims are encouraged to increase their worship and engage in righteous deeds, including giving charity. For those looking to give charity conveniently, platforms like Muamalat DIN’s Hijrah Amal feature make it easy to contribute.

2. The Night of Nisfu Sha’ban: A Night of Forgiveness

On the 15th night of Sha’ban, known as Laylatul Bara’ah or Nisfu Sha’ban, Allah (SWT) opens the doors of forgiveness for all His servants, except those who persist in major sins such as shirk (associating partners with Allah) or harboring hatred toward others. As mentioned in a hadith reported by At-Thabrani, the Prophet (SAW) said:

“On the night of mid-Sha’ban, Allah (SWT) looks upon all His creation and forgives them, except for the polytheist and the one who harbors enmity in his heart.” (HR. At-Thabrani)

On this blessed night, Muslims are encouraged to seek forgiveness through istighfar, recite the Quran, and pray for mercy and ease in their lives.

Recommended Practices During Sha’ban

1. Increase in Voluntary Fasting

Sha’ban is the month in which the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) fasted the most, aside from Ramadan. Aisha (RA) reported:

“I never saw the Messenger of Allah (SAW) fast more in any month than he did in Sha’ban.” (HR. Bukhari & Muslim)

Many scholars recommend increasing voluntary fasting during this month, particularly on Mondays and Thursdays, as well as during the Ayamul Bidh (the 13th, 14th, and 15th days of the lunar month).

2. Increase in Sending Blessings (Salawat) Upon the Prophet

Sha’ban is also known as the month when the command to send blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was revealed. Allah (SWT) says in Surah Al-Ahzab (33:56):

“Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who believe, send blessings upon him and greet him with peace.”

By increasing our salawat, we not only express our love for the Prophet (SAW) but also hope to gain his intercession on the Day of Judgment.

3. Increase in Supplication and Seeking Forgiveness

Given the immense blessings of this month, it is highly recommended to engage in frequent supplication and istighfar (seeking forgiveness). For those seeking easy access to daily prayers, platforms like Muamalat DIN offer collections of daily supplications for various needs.

4. Giving Charity and Helping Others

Charity is an act that benefits both the giver and the receiver, serving as an investment in one’s eternal reward. This is especially true during Sha’ban, when deeds are elevated to Allah (SWT). The Prophet (SAW) said:

“Charity extinguishes sins as water extinguishes fire.” (HR. Tirmidzi)

To make giving easier, Muamalat DIN’s Hijrah Amal feature allows users to donate, give charity, and contribute to Ziswaf (Zakat, Infaq, Sadaqah, and Waqf) effortlessly, anytime and anywhere.

5. Reciting and Reflecting on the Quran

Sha’ban is also referred to as Shahrul Qurra’, the month of Quran reciters. Many early scholars would increase their recitation of the Quran during this month as a preparation for Ramadan. Reciting and reflecting on the Quran not only brings peace to the heart but also multiplies one’s rewards.

Make the Most of Sha’ban

Sha’ban is a golden opportunity to enhance our worship and self-improvement before the arrival of Ramadan. Its virtues include the elevation of deeds, the blessed night of Nisfu Sha’ban, and the encouragement to increase fasting, salawat, supplications, and charity.

As a way of showing care for others, we can also utilize platforms like Hijrah Amal on Muamalat DIN to donate flexibly and support those in need. Additionally, take advantage of the daily supplications available through this app. Let us make the most of this blessed month and prepare ourselves spiritually for the holy month of Ramadan!