The Month of Rajab

The sacred month of Rajab has arrived and it is the start of a blessed period that lasts three months and culminates with the end of the Holy month of Ramadhan. It is said that Prophet Muhammad SAW referred to Rajab as Allah SWT’s month, Sha’ban as the Prophet SAW’s month, and Ramadhan as the month of his Umma.

As one of the four sacred months in the Islamic calendar, there is particular emphasis on I’badah and attentiveness towards Allah SWT. It is also the month of the Night of Ascension (Laylat al Mi’raj) of the Holy Prophet SAW to the heavens, as well as the birth month of Imam Ali AS.

Although the mercy of Allah SWT is being showered upon us all year round, there are certain times of the year where it is more accessible or perceivable by His servants.

The first Thursday night of Rajab is known as Laylat al Raghaib and is a particularly special time where acts of worship and du’a are highly encouraged. There are many recommended a’maal and supplications for the night but asking Allah SWT for forgiveness for our sins is especially important. Rajab is also known as the month of istighfar, or asking for forgiveness from Allah SWT, but we must also remember to reach out to people whom we may have hurt or transgressed against in any way to seek forgiveness directly from them. Equally important is to forgive in our hearts those who have transgressed against us in order to make way for the blessings that Allah SWT has in store for us in Ramadhan.

Insha’Allah we will all avail ourselves of this opportunity from Allah SWT to prepare ourselves for the spiritual feast of the Holy month of Ramadhan.

AN