Today is the holy night of Shab-e-Barat. The word ‘Shab’ in Persian means night, and ‘Barat’ means salvation or release. Therefore, Shab-e-Barat means the Night of Salvation.
In Arabic, it is called ‘Lailatul Bara’ah,’ which also means the same—Night of Salvation. The night of the 15th of Sha'ban, the eighth month of the Hijri calendar, is known as Shab-e-Barat.
While the Holy Qur’an clearly mentions Lailatul Qadr, even dedicating a full Surah called Surah Al-Qadr to it, there is no direct reference to Lailatul Bara’ah in the Qur’an. Instead, it is discussed in the Hadiths.
In Hadith terminology, it is referred to as ‘Lailatun Nisfi Min Sha’ban,’ meaning the night in the middle of Sha'ban. Although the importance of this night is mentioned in the Hadith, it should not be disregarded.
It is indeed one of the most significant nights in Islam.
According to Islamic belief, on this night, Almighty Allah forgives His servants, accepts prayers, and bestows blessings. Therefore, the Muslim world observes this special night with acts of worship and devotion.
A Sahih Hadith about this night is found in the chapter on Iqamat-us-Salat in Sunan Ibn Majah. Hazrat Abu Musa Ash’ari (RA) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said, “Indeed, on the night of mid-Sha'ban, Allah turns His special attention toward all His creation and forgives them all, except for the polytheists and those who harbor malice in their hearts”.
In some Hadiths, it is mentioned that adulterers and murderers of innocent people are also excluded from forgiveness. Hazrat Aisha (RA) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) would visit the graveyard of Madinah, known as Jannatul Baqi, on this night and pray for the deceased.
She further stated that the Prophet (PBUH) told her that on this night, Allah forgives more sinners than the number of hairs on the sheep of the tribe of Bani Kalb (Tirmidhi Sharif: 739).
It is clear from this that seeking Allah’s forgiveness on the night of Shab-e-Barat is the most virtuous act. Therefore, on this night, we should engage in acts such as offering additional Nafl prayers, seeking forgiveness (Istighfar), reciting Tasbih-Tahlil, reciting the Qur’an, performing Dhikr, and visiting graves to seek Allah’s mercy and pray for others as well.
There is no prescribed Surah or fixed method of prayer for this night. Also, it is not only on special nights that we should engage in worship; rather, we should strive to worship regularly, especially during the blessed last part of every night through Tahajjud and other acts of devotion. Moreover, Shab-e-Barat has no connection with changing one’s fate.
It is important to note that there are several misconceptions and superstitions in our society regarding the worship and practices of Shab-e-Barat. Islam promotes moderation, avoiding both excess and negligence.
Therefore, we must have a clear understanding of what should and should not be done on this night. For instance, staying awake at night should not cause us to miss the Fajr prayer. It is also highly recommended to pray for family, relatives, and neighbors.
On the other hand, we must refrain from unacceptable and innovative practices, such as bursting firecrackers, lighting fireworks, creating a festive atmosphere, or decorating with lights.
These activities are contrary to the core principles of Islam. Preparing special dishes like halwa-roti is not mandatory for this night. Similarly, it is not appropriate to create noise or disturbance in mosques or neighborhoods. Group visits to graves are also not mentioned anywhere.
It is also noteworthy that today, in addition to Shab-e-Barat, both the first day of Falgun and Valentine’s Day will be observed. Therefore, law enforcement authorities must remain vigilant to ensure that no one engages in indecency or disorderly conduct during these events.
