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Acts of Worship in the Month of Rajab

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A peaceful mosque under a crescent moon, symbolizing sacred Islamic months like Rajab.

Rajab is one of the sacred months in Islam, coming just before the blessed month of Ramadan. Engaging in virtuous acts during Rajab prepares the heart for the spiritual journey ahead. Here are some recommended acts:

Recommended Acts in Rajab

  1. Performing Umrah
    Performing Umrah in Rajab is considered commendable. This practice is supported by the actions of notable companions, including Umar ibn Al-Khattab and Abdullah ibn Umar, as well as Aisha, the Mother of the Believers (may Allah be pleased with them all).
  2. Fasting
    Fasting during the sacred months, including Rajab, is generally recommended. However, singling out specific days of Rajab without evidence from the Sunnah is not encouraged.
    “Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve months… of these, four are sacred.” (Surah At-Tawbah 9:36)
  3. Engaging in Good Deeds
    Performing acts of charity, dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and other virtuous deeds are highly encouraged throughout Rajab, as in all times.

Acts to Avoid in Rajab

Some practices associated with Rajab have no basis in the Qur’an or Sunnah. Scholars caution against these innovations:

  1. Salat al-Raghaib
    This prayer, performed on the first Thursday night of Rajab, is an innovation. It involves twelve rak’ahs between Maghrib and Isha, and has no foundation in authentic Islamic teachings.
  2. Night of Isra and Mi’raj
    Commemorating the 27th night of Rajab with special prayers is another unfounded practice. While the Isra and Mi’raj are significant events, specifying this night for worship lacks evidence.
  3. Designating Rajab for Fasting or ‘Rajabi Umrah’
    Although fasting and Umrah are virtuous, setting aside Rajab for these acts exclusively is not prescribed.
  4. Excessive Celebrations and Greetings
    Expressions like “O Allah, bless us in Rajab and Sha’ban, and let us reach Ramadan” are based on weak or fabricated hadiths. Scholars advise caution in their use.
  5. Fasting the Entire Month of Rajab
    Singling out Rajab for fasting the entire month is generally discouraged by scholars.

Significant Islamic Events in Rajab

Many notable events in Islamic history occurred during Rajab:

  1. The Expedition of Tabuk (9 AH)
    This was the last military campaign led by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
  2. The First Migration to Abyssinia (5th year of Prophethood)
    Muslims sought refuge under the protection of King Negus to escape persecution.
  3. The Death of King Negus (9 AH)
    Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) performed a funeral prayer in absentia for the just ruler of Abyssinia.
  4. The Miracle of Isra and Mi’raj (10th year of Prophethood)
    Though widely believed to have occurred in Rajab, the exact date is debated among scholars.
  5. The Conquest of Damascus (14 AH)
    The Muslim army, led by Abu Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrah and Khalid ibn al-Walid, achieved this victory.
  6. The Battle of Zallaqah in Al-Andalus (479 AH)
    Yusuf ibn Tashfin led the Muslims to victory.
  7. The Recapture of Jerusalem by Salahuddin Ayyubi (583 AH)

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