Friday March 8th the First Day of Rajab 1400 (A.H) and Beginning of the Spiritual Season

Friday, March 8, 2019 is the first day of month of Rajab 1400 (A.H.), the seventh month of the Islamic calendar. The first day of Rajab marks the beginning of the particular spiritual season for all Muslims. The other months of this season are Sha’ban, and Ramadan. The Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) is reported to have said, “Rajab is the month of almighty God, Sha’ban is my month, and Ramadan is the month of my people’’.

According to many scholars 27th of Rajab was the day that the Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) was taken on the Isra and Mi’raj (the Night Journey) and was appointed to prophethood (Mabath). Moreover, the 13th of Rajab was the birthday of Imam Ali (AS) in Kaba in Mecca. Additionally, there are several other important days in this month such as the 15th of Rajab that need to be observed by praying all night, reciting Quran, and giving charity. Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) has said, “Rajab is the month known as the month of overflowing because mercy overflows upon my community.”

There are several practices that are recommended for Rajab. These are as follows:

·      Worships and Supplications - Imams and scholars throughout our history have affirmed the virtues and benefits of worship in this month. These prayers help us to develop our spirituality and strengthen our relationship with God. Please refer to various prayer books and online resources such as duas.org for special prayers and supplication for these months.

·      Asking for Forgiveness – Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said "Rajab is the month for seeking forgiveness, so seek forgiveness from God. It is highly recommended to remind ourselves about this important concept by saying “Astaghfirullaah Rabbee Wa Atoobu Ilayh” the translation is “I seek God’s forgiveness and come to Him in repentance” or Astaghfirullaha wa asʾaluhu al-tawba, the translation is “I seek God’s forgiveness and I beseech His repentance”, after the daily prayers and through out the day. Sincere repentance from our sins purifies the soul and makes us more compassionate toward others. If others have wronged us, and we are still holding grudges against them, we should forgive them. If we are merciful toward others, inshallah God will be merciful to us.

·      Fasting – Fasting is highly recommended during the Rajab. Imam Musa al-Kadhim (as) says about the virtue of fasting in Rajab "Rajab is the name of a river in heaven, which is whiter than milk and sweeter than honey. Whoever fasts in Rajab shall be able to drink from that river".

·      Charity - Giving charity and helping the needy are highly encouraged in this month.