Understanding the Significance of the 15th of Shaban

Although the entire month of Sha’baan is important, the 15^th night holds special significance as it is a night of forgiveness and mercy. 

Aisha (ra) narrated that the Prophet (saw) said, “Allah descends on the night of the middle of Sha’baan to the lowest heaven and He forgives more than the numbers of hairs of the sheep of Banu Kalb (a tribe who owned great flocks of sheep in Arabia)” [Ibn Majah].

What to do on the 15^th of Sha’baan?

The Messenger of Allah (saw) said that on the night of 15 Sha’baan, from sunset until dawn, 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 I may provide for him? Is there anyone suffering so I may relieve his suffering? [Ibn Majah].

Although there are no specific prayers for this night, scholars suggest Muslims stay up and repent to Allah (saw) overnight, between Maghrib and Fajr. Recite the noble Quran and perform extra Nafil Salah to seek the Almighty’s forgiveness, better health, protection from calamities and strengthened Iman.

Recite the following Dua repeatedly during this night:

How to make Dua sincerely

Duas should be made with sincerity and intention. Here is a basic guide:

1. Begin by performing two rakats of Salat Al-Tawbha to repent for all your sins;
2. Start your Duas by praising Allah (saw) and calling unto Him by His 99 names.
3. Make Dua for your brothers and sisters, your family, community and the entire Ummah.
4. Ask Allah (saw) for what you desire in this Dunya and especially in the Akhirah.
5. End your Dua by reading salawats to the Messenger of Allah (saw).

Other things to do during Sha’baan:

• Seek forgiveness from family and friends and resolve any problems or disagreements
• Forgive people who you have quarreled with and now have a grudge against.
• If possible, you should try to fast as much as possible during Sha’baan, especially on the 13^th, 14^th, and 15^th
• Prepare for Ramadaan and incorporate as many of the Sunnah practices of our beloved Messenger (saw) during this time. Read more on How to prepare for Ramadan.

 

During Sha’baan, help the poor and needy by giving to charity. Donate now and help us reach even more people in the next few weeks.

We pray that Allah (SWT) allows us all to reap the blessings of the night of 15 Sha’baan. May He forgive our sins, increase our provision and relieve us of our trials and tribulations. May Allah (saw) keep us all safe from this deadly virus and allow us to reach Ramadan, Inshallah Ameen.

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