By Aimen Ali

15^TH of Shaban, which is known as Shab-e-Baraat or Lailatul Baraat, meaning the Night of Absolution is one of the holiest and prestigious nights on the Islamic Calendar. Shab-e-Baraat is a way to Mercy, Blessing, Benefit, Pardon and Forgiveness that showers upon the people of the earth.

On this great night, Allah Ta’ala sends His angels, descends to the first heaven, and proclaims, “Is there anyone who seeks forgiveness so that I may forgive him? Is there anyone who seeks subsistence so that I may grant him subsistence? Is there anyone who seeks freedom from his problems so that I may remove his problems?” This announcement continues until the break of dawn.

On Shab-E-Barat Almighty Allah writes the fates of all men for the coming year by taking into account the acts and deeds committed by them previously in their life. This day is a call for every Muslim to renounce its evil deeds and attains forgiveness from Allah. Fasting on this day and the day after is much significant as our Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) used to fast the whole month of Shaban in honor of Ramadan, it is our Holy Sunnah.

One should forgive all the personal grudges with everyone and should not keep Keena (enmity) or nourish malice in his heart for other Muslims. Shab-e-Barat is not about Halva and Fireworks but it is about how much dua and ibadat we can make for our Muslim Ummah and ourselves.

May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq to take full advantage of the blessings of Shab-e-Baraat, to repent from our sins and to make as much Ibaadat as possible on this blessed night, Ameen.