Fasting is the core part of teaching Islam. Thus, this activity is of utmost importance to Muslims across the globe. When booking 5-star Umrah Packages, rest assured that you will have the best experience in holy cities. Besides Ramadan, it’s month of Shaban which provide the opportunity to the worshippers to develop a relationship with Allah Ta’ala. In this blog, I will explain the benefits of fasting during the month of Shaban.
Let’s now look at the reason.
Reasons to Fast in Shaban
Shaban is the eighth month of the Muslim calendar. It lies between Rajab and Ramadan, which are two of the four sacred Islamic months. For this reason, the month is nicknamed the ‘Neglected Month.’ Shaban is often overlooked by Muslims for its significance. However, this month has a unique distinction that it is equally important as it is the month in which the Holy Prophet (PBUH) used to fast for a couple of days. This part will attempt to put forward the reasons which make it mandatory for you to restrain from food and liquid from the morning until evening in this month.
⦁ Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH)
Shaban’s fasts do hold a significance, but there is a compelling reason to think that it was the Sunnah of our Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) where fasting itself was the most important. As always, there are Prophetic sayings which Muslims must follow. The prophet’s wife, Aisha (may peace be on him), highlights that
I observed the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) fasting to such a extent in month of Shaban that I thought “perhaps he intends to fast without taking a break.” However, there is discrepancy among the scholars whether the Holy Prophet (PBUH) fasted throughout the month alternatively in a few selected days in the month. Regardless of uncertainty, it is fact that he paid special attention for month of Shaban and encouraged his followers to do so as well.
Ay zamanul, I follow this Sunnah not just as an affectionate gesture towards the Messenger of Allah, but also view it as a root cause of attaining Makhoor al Baari. Following the Holy Prophet’s (PBUH) way of life entails accepting the responsibility of abiding by these teachings. In addition, Muslims are hoping to get rid of sins and get a Majestic God’s Khusn al Fadl. This attitude is common In the month of ‘Shaban’ all the pilgrims are observing this month in order to deepen their Iman and ponder over their adherence to Islam.
⦁ Preparation for Ramadan
Another reason is to prepare for Ramadan. Fasting in Shaban is like having a warm-up before the main season. During this month, Muslims learn about how to go smoothly into the routine of Ramadan which demands long hours of worship and less sleep.
For many people, especially the older ones, staying away from food and drink for long hours is quite difficult. They may feel drained or weakened by the end of the day. Shaban helps develop this routine.
Worshippers can prepare their body by slowly adjusting to fasting before Ramadan begins. They can opt for healthy meals and avoid starchy foods to stay active during the day. Moreover, they can start by sleeping right after Maghrib for an hour or two. This will help them change their sleep time, bringing them into the routine to remain awake the whole night for worship.
However, the preparation is not just about the body but of the soul as well. The month of Shaban allows the devotees to reflect on their wrongdoings and make amends for them. Moreover, you can clean your heart from all the worldly affairs and desires to focus on building a strong relationship with Allah Almighty.
These preparations allow Muslims to welcome the sacred month of Ramadan with a clear mind and a pure heart. The month of Shaban helps individuals develop discipline for acts of worship such as Quran recitation, prayers, and charity.
⦁ Connects with Allah
He created us and during Shaban fasting makes us close to him even deeper because it is an optional act of ibadah which we do solely for His sake. When we fast, we give up food and drinks as well as other sinful acts to demonstrate our dedication and fidelity to Allah.
In this month, a fasting ritual takes place which enables us to reflect and deepen our spirituality. Fasting enables us to focus on our faith, free from any material distractions that the world presents. It is done a month prior to Ramadan in the month of Shaban and is closer to Allah and His mercy. Not only is it an act of gratitude but it fills the soul with pureness and strengthens our bond with the Creator.
According to one report, the beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that ‘Shaban is the month when people’s deeds are placed before Allah Swt.’ I like my deeds to be presented while I am fasting.” This shows the importance of fasting in Shaban as a means of presenting ourselves to Allah in a state of worship and sincerity.
⦁ Increases Blessings
The act of worshipping God is the way to seek rewards. The month of Shaban has lots of blessings and rewards from God Almighty. Fasting during the month is one of Shaban’s activities.
While often neglected, Shaban offers Muslims a chance to open doors for greater blessings.
They can attain the mercy of Allah by creating discipline and patience among them. Also, it will benefit them in this world and the Hereafter. Fasting also teaches gratitude to the believers for the blessings Allah has given such as food, water, and health. By adopting gratitude, Muslims increase their chance of getting rewarded in their lives.
Moreover, Fasting in Shaban also enables the people to remember God as much as they can through making supplication (dua). This act further multiplies the blessings of the Lord of the Worlds, paving the path to get closer to Him.
⦁ Complete Missed Fasts
One more important reason why you should fast in Shaban is to make up for your missed fasts. Many people are unable to fast for the whole month of Ramadan due to many reasons such as illness or travel. Moreover, women cannot fast for a complete 30 days due to their menstruation. This result is missing some days.
However, the month of Shaban is the perfect time to complete their missed fasts before the next arrival of Ramadan. This month ensures that worshippers welcome the blessed Ramadan month, having fulfilled all their past obligations. It is a way for believers to show accountability for their actions. By completing their missed fasts, Muslims are purifying their hearts and learning the responsibility of finishing their tasks on time.
Final Words
This blog has explored some of the reasons why you should fast during the month of Shaban. Those who wish to travel to the holy cities and spend their Shaban in the holy cities can benefit from 4-star Umrah packages.
From practicing the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) to completing missing fasts. The month of Shaban is a great way to feed your spirit with rewards even in the city of Mecca. Are you looking for an economical travel package with great comfort? Then contact Muslims Holy Travel to get customized travel bundles at an affordable rate. We have been offering travel packages from the last 10 years to our customers, giving them a memorable trip.
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