At The Approach of Rajab & Sha’ban

With the sighting of the crescent of Rajab, Rasulullah (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi Wa Salam) would anticipate and begin preparations for the month of Ramadaan. This is two months in advance! People “live to see” various accomplishments in their lives, but a Believer “lives for” and yearns to witness sacred days like these.

The crescent of Rajab signals the start of a “New Season”. One of hope, mercy and forgiveness for a believer. This “season” only finishes three months later; on the day of Eid!

Rajab is the second of the “four sacred months” in the Islamic Calendar which are referred to as: “Al-Ash-hurul hurum“ (Surah Tawbah, verse: 36)

The others are: Zhul-Qa’dah, Zhul-Hijjah and Al-Muharram.

Shaykh Abu Bakr Balkhy (Rahimahullah) says:

“Rajab is a month in which we plant the seeds of good. i.e, by increasing our ‘ibadah. In Sha’ban we water them, to cultivate (and reap the rewards) in Ramadhan”

(Lataif, pg. 173)

Imam Shafi’e (Rahimahullah) has stated: “I have heard that Dua’s are accepted by Almighty Allah on five nights:

1) The night of Jumu’ah,

2 & 3) The nights of the two ‘Eids,

4) The first night of Rajab,

5) The middle (15th) night of Sha’ban,

(Lataiful Ma’arif, pg. 196)

 The Sahabah (Radiyallahu ‘anum) and the Tab’un (Rahimahumullah) would increase their Quranic recital during these months (especially in Sha’ban), i.e. in preparation for Ramadhan. (Lataiful Ma’arif, pg. 192)

Opportunities like these only come once a year. Fortunate are those who maximize their benefit there from.