What is The 15th Shaban?
Shaban is an important month preceding Ramadan. It allows us to prepare for Ramadan. The Prophet ﷺ spoke specifically about the 15th of Shaban. It is due to this that Muslims around the world perform extra acts of worship during this night!
What is the 15th of Shaban called?
The 15th of Shaban is widely known as Shab-e-Barat (more commonly in South Asian communities) and also Laylat al-Bara’at.
Why is the 15th Shaban Important?
- It’s considered to be one of the most important nights of the year.
- It is believed that Allah Most High raises the deeds of His servants on this day.
- It’s an opportunity to seek Allah’s forgiveness for past and future sins and for needs to be fulfilled.
- It is widely believed that Allah descends destiny for the year ahead from the heavens to humankind. To earn Allah’s favour, we should spend the night indulging in as many virtuous acts as possible.
What did The Prophet ﷺ say about The 15th of Shaban?
The Prophet ﷺ said that on this night Allah asks his servants “Is there anyone seeking forgiveness from Me so that I may forgive him? Is there anyone seeking provision from Me so that I may provide for him? Is there anyone suffering so I may relieve his suffering?” [Ibn Majah].
Furthermore, The Prophet ﷺ said “Allah gazes at His creation on the 15th night of Shaban and then forgives all His slaves except for 2 types of people. Those who attribute partners to Allah and those who have rancour for their fellow Muslims” [Ahmad].
Fasting on the 15th Shaban
The Prophet ﷺ said “What it is the night of the middle of Shaban, spend its night in prayer and observe a fast on that day. For Allah descends at sunset on that night to the lowest heaven and says ”Is there no one who will ask Me for forgiveness, that I may forgive him? Is there no one who will ask me for provision so that I may provide for him? Is there no one who is afflicted by trouble, that I may relieve him?’ And so on, until dawn comes.” [Ibn Majah].
Congregating for 15th Shaban
We can decide to spend the night individually in prayer or to gather collectively in the Mosque to observe Qiyam al-Layl, (night prayers).
There is benefit in gathering together for it softens the heart towards brothers and sisters, helping us to let go of any rancour and to forgive others. This strengthens the bond between us, strengthening the Ummah. Furthermore, there is more reward for praying in the Mosque!
Seek Allah's forgiveness in good actions!
The earthquake in Syria and Turkey is fresh. Syrian refugees are entering into one of the toughest Ramadan’s of their loves to date. Earn Allah’s blessing, by remembering those who are in need and sending food for them for Ramadan!
