What to Do in Shaban?

A brother asked this question: “As-salamu `alaykum. Please, what are the acts of worship that we should do in the month of Shaban?”

Wa `alaykum as-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

The month of Shaban is a great month; it falls between Rajab and Ramadan. And as such, it is recommended that we should devote ourselves to engaging in extra devotions.

1. 1. Fasting is highly recommended this month, especially in the first half. However, we should stop fasting as we get closer to Ramadan. In this way, we stay away from joining the fasting of Shaban with that of Ramadan.

1. 1. Reading the Quran is another great virtue to practice. Some of the salaf called this month the month of recitations.

1. 1. Engaging in dhikr and establishing consistency in it is highly rewarding.

1. 1. We may do well to use the time to brush up on our knowledge of Ramadan and the rules and adab (teachings) of fasting during Ramadan. Ali ibn Abi Talib, the fourth caliph, said, “There are no benefits to be derived from worship without knowledge.”

1. 1. Last but not least, let us pray to Allah in the manner of some of the pious elders, who used to pray, “O Allah, bless us in the months of Rajab and Shaban and take us to Ramadan.”

It has been reported by the Companions that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to fast in the month of Shaban more than any other month (except Ramadan). As mentioned by scholars, it is a preparation for Ramadan.

Allah Almighty knows best.