The 15th Shaban - A Night for Asking Forgiveness of Allah, Fiqh (Islamic Law), islam, Islamic Creed, Quran, Sunnah, Learn Islam, Shab e Barat

The 15th Shaban – A Night For Asking Forgiveness of Allah

In Islam, the 15th of Shaban, also called Mid-Sha’ban or Shab-e-Barat (Night of Forgiveness), is a very important night when Muslims believe Allah bestows great mercy, forgiveness, and blessings. They are urged to repent, pray, and seek sustenance from dark until dawn. Prior to Ramadan, it is a time for exceptional devotion (such as Salat and Quran recitation), asking for forgiveness (Istighfar), fortifying family bonds, and frequently fasting the next day.

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Importance of 15th Shaban

On the night of Shab-e-Barat (the 15th of Sha’ban), many Muslims believe that Allah brings down a person’s fate for the coming year from the heavens.

Given the significance of Shab e-Barat (15th Sha’ban) in Islam, we should strive to spend the night in the most moral manner possible.

The History of 15th Shaban

According to reports, the Prophet (PBUH) told Aishah (RA) that “Allah descends on the night of the middle of Shaban to the lowest heaven, and He forgives more than the numbers of hairs on the sheep of Banu Kalb (an Arab tribe renowned for their great flocks of sheep).” [Hadith | Ibn Majah]

Also Read: Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi

Key Aspects:

  • Night of Mercy: It is said that Allah looks upon His creation, pardoning crimes and fulfilling requests, with the exception of those who harbor intense animosity, associate partners with Him, or break off familial relations.
  • Spiritual Significance: For some Shia traditions, it is regarded as one of the holiest nights, second only to Laylat al-Qadr. It is a time for deep dedication and purification.
  • Practices:
    • Night Vigil (Ihya): staying up for worship, which includes reciting the Quran and performing additional prayers (Nawafil).
    • Dua & Istighfar: asking for pardon and making sincere pleas.
    • Fasting: It is recommended to fast on the 15th, sometimes in conjunction with the 13th and 14th (also known as the “Bright Days”).
  • Imam Mahdi’s Birth: Additionally, Shia Muslims commemorate the birthday of their 12th Imam on this day, Imam Mahdi. 

When is it?

The 15th of Shaban—The date, which falls on the night following the 14th of Shaban, varies annually according to the Islamic lunar calendar. It is expected to occur in late February or early March of 2025; however, you should always check the precise night with your local Islamic calendar.

Fasting on 15th Sha’ban

Regarding fasting on the fifteenth day of Sha’ban in particular, there is only one weak hadith. Nevertheless, fasting on the 13th, 14th, and 15th of each month is mandated by the Sunnah.

Is this the Night of Destiny?

Most scholars agree that the night of 15th Sha’ban is not mentioned in the Qur’an.

According to certain interpreters, Surah Ad-Dukhan mentions the night of Sha’ban 15th: “Indeed, We sent it [the Book] down during a blessed night.” We were to warn [mankind], in fact. Every specific matter is made clear on that night. [The Noble Qur’an, 44:3-4]

Preparing for Ramadan

Sha’ban is a unique month, and its blessings should not be overlooked. We should be getting ready for the auspicious month of Ramadan during this time, when our deeds are elevated to Allah and our love for the Prophet (saw) grows.

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Celebrate Shab-e-Barat (15th Sha’ban) by giving Sadaqah

Helping our Muslim brothers and sisters who are in need around the world is one of the most admirable acts of worship on Shab-e-Barat (15th Sha’ban).

May Allah grant us the opportunity to reap the benefits of this evening. May He enhance our provision, pardon our transgressions, and ease our suffering. Amin, may Allah grant us success in Ramadan and bless us in Sha’ban!

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