Rajab: The Month of Allah
As one of the four sacred months, Rajab carries immense significance. Ibn Rajab Al-Hanbali notes that Rajab is a time to begin softening the heart and turning toward Allah in preparation for Ramadan. Just as farmers plant seeds ahead of harvest season, we should begin sowing the seeds of repentance, good deeds, and mindfulness in Rajab to reap the blessings of Ramadan.
Mindfulness in a Sacred Month
Allah says in the Qur’an, “Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve…of which four are sacred…” (Surah At-Tawbah: 36). In sacred months like Rajab, sins weigh heavier, but so do good deeds. Ibn Rajab reminds us that these months demand extra mindfulness in guarding against sin. Start by purifying the heart and actions, avoiding idle talk, backbiting, and heedlessness, as we seek to honor this month of Allah.
The Abundance of Istighfar
Rajab is an ideal time to engage in abundant istighfar (seeking forgiveness). Start with reciting Astaghfirullah at least 100 times daily and gradually increase. Scholars like Ibn Taymiyyah and Ibn Rajab recommend aiming for thousands during Rajab, with some scholars encouraging 3000 daily or even up to 70,000 throughout the month. This practice not only cleanses the heart but also draws us closer to Allah’s mercy and prepares us spiritually for Ramadan.
Practical Tips
- ‘Set a Routine*: Begin your day with istighfar after Fajr and incorporate it into your commute, chores, or moments of stillness.
- Intentional Du’a: Pair istighfar with specific duas for forgiveness, like the Sayyidul Istighfar’
- Reflect on Accountability: Recall Rajab as a sacred month and make a conscious effort to avoid sin, knowing that every small act of striving to be God conscious brings blessings.
As Ibn Rajab eloquently states, “The keys to Ramadan are found in Rajab and Sha’ban. To neglect these months is to lose the beauty of Ramadan.” May Allah guide us to make Rajab a springboard for spiritual growth and grant us barakah as we prepare for the blessed month of Ramadan.