In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
This article explores the significance and traditions surrounding Shab-e-Barat, a night held dear by many Muslims. While the exact date varies depending on the moon sighting, it’s expected to fall on Sunday, February 25, 2024, marking the 14th night of the Islamic month of Shaban, 1445.
What is Shab-e-Barat?
Shab e Barat holds significant importance in the Islamic calendar as it falls in the middle of Shaban, precisely on the night between the 14th and 15th of Shaban. This is why it’s referred to as Nisf Shaban. This auspicious night begins at sunset on the 14th of Shaban and concludes at dawn on the 15th of Shaban.
Various countries have distinct traditions for celebrating this occasion, each giving it a different name. Nisf Shaban is known as Shab e Barat or Shabe Barat in South Asia, particularly in the Subcontinent, Lailatul Barat in Arabic, Nisfu Syaban (Malam Nisfu Syaban) in Indonesia and Malaysia, and Berat Kandili in Turkey.
Shab e Barat is revered by many Muslims as the night of forgiveness, during which they pray fervently, seeking Allah’s blessings throughout the night.
The Month of Shaban
Shaban is the 8th month of the Islamic Calendar. It is a month of blessings and asking Allah for forgiveness. This assertion finds support in various Hadiths which emphasize the importance of this sacred month:
Aishah bint Abu Bakr (R.A.) reported that:
“The Messenger of Allah did not fast in any month of the year more than he did in Shaban. He used to fast all of Shaban.” (An-Nasai: 2180)
Our revered Prophet (ﷺ) maintained a practice of fasting throughout the entirety of Shaban. This practice serves as a testament to the virtues and significance attributed to the month of Shaban.
Shab-e-Barat according to Hadith
To begin with, it’s important to note that there are no Sahih Hadiths or Quranic verses explicitly discussing the significance of this particular night. Nevertheless, notably in South Asia, many individuals observe this night, dedicating their time to the worship of Allah.
However, there are some Daaif Hadiths that do highlight the importance and virtues associated with this night.
Aishah (R.A.) narrated that:
“…. He (S.A.W.) said: ‘Indeed Allah, Mighty and Sublime is He, descends to the lowest Heavens during the night of the middle of Shaban, to grant forgiveness to more than the number of hairs on the sheep of (Banu) Kalb.'” (Tirmidhi: 739)
Shab-e-Barat according to Prominent Scholars
According to Imam Al-Shafi’ee:
“There are five nights when the supplications (Duas) are accepted by Allah. These are (1) Friday night, (2) Night before Eid-ul-Fitr, (3) Night before Eid-ul-Adha, (4) First night of Rajab and (5) Night of Nisf Shaban.”
According to Imam Malik:
“There are four nights in which gates of righteousness are opened, (1) Night before Eid-ul-Fitr, (2) Night before Eid-ul-Adha, (3) Night of Arafat (9th Dhul Hijjah during Hajj) and (5) Night of Nisf Shaban.”
Fasting on the 15th of Shaban
There isn’t a Hadith of unquestionable authenticity that explicitly highlights the significance of fasting specifically on the 15th day of Shaban. As previously mentioned, the Prophet (ﷺ) maintained a practice of fasting frequently throughout this month. Hence, singling out the 15th of Shaban for fasting may not be warranted.
Celebration of Shab-e-Barat
Various countries observe this night in diverse ways. It’s common for people to exchange sweets during this occasion. Some individuals even mark the night with fireworks, though this practice stems from local traditions and lacks religious significance. In fact, some scholars have labeled it as Bidah (Innovation in religion). In Iraq, it’s customary to distribute sweets to children. In South Asian nations, people typically share local delicacies like “Halwa” or other treats with neighbors, family, friends, and those in need. However, Middle Eastern countries generally do not partake in celebrating this night.
Conclusion
Thus, you may spend this night engaging in acts of benevolence, such as offering prayers for yourself and all Muslims worldwide, reciting the Quran, and any other deeds to seek Allah’s favor and blessings. These actions align with the Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ) as mentioned in the above Hadiths. However, it’s essential to note that any form of worship on this night is not obligatory.
Also Read: When is Ramadan 2024?
