Blessed Month of Sha'ban: Its Forgotten Virtues and Sacred Middle Night

Between the sacred month of Rajab and the blessed month of Ramadan lies a treasure often overlooked by the modern Muslim community. The month of Shaʿban holds profound spiritual opportunities that the Prophet ﷺ himself cherished above all other months for voluntary fasting and worship.

In this masterful treatise, the renowned Muhaddith of Makkah, Sayyid Muḥammad ibn ʿAlawī al-Mālikī, unveils the hidden treasures of this blessed month. Drawing from hadith sources and the wisdom of the righteous predecessors, he illuminates why the Prophet ﷺ called Shaʿban "my month" and why he fasted more during it than any other time except Ramadan.

This comprehensive work explores the momentous events that occurred in Shaʿban, including the changing of the Qiblah from Jerusalem to Makkah and the revelation of the verse commanding believers to send salutations upon the Prophet ﷺ. The author guides readers through the spiritual practices most beloved during this month, from increased fasting to the recitation of Qurʾan, from seeking forgiveness to sending abundant blessings upon the Messenger ﷺ.

Special attention is given to the Night of the Middle of Shaʿban (also known as Shab-e-Barāt and Laylah al-Barāʾah), when divine mercy descends, sins are forgiven, and sustenance is decreed. The author carefully examines the authentic narrations regarding this blessed night while addressing common misconceptions and innovations.

In this illuminating work, readers will discover:

1. Why the Prophet ﷺ said deeds are raised to Allah during Shaʿban
2. The authentic practices for the sacred Middle Night and which innovations to avoid
3. Powerful supplications transmitted from the righteous predecessors
4. Which sins prevent divine forgiveness on this blessed night
5. How to properly prepare the heart for Ramadan's arrival
6. The special connection between Shaʿban and sending salutations upon the Prophet ﷺ