Shab-e-Baraat 2025: A Night of Second Chances

As the sacred month of Sha’ban reaches its midpoint, we are blessed with Shab-e-Baraat, the Night of Forgiveness—a time of divine mercy, reflection, and boundless opportunities for renewing our spirits in beautiful ways. Known in Arabic as Laylat al-Bara’ah,(ليلة البراءة) which literally translates to “The Night of Freedom from Sin” or “The Night of Deliverance” falls on the 15th night of the eighth month of the Islamic calendar, Sha'ban.  

As humans, we often find ourselves weighing up the benefits before committing to anything that demands our time or effort. It’s natural to ask: 

“What’s in it for me?” 

“How will this benefit me?” 

“Why should I participate in this night of mercy?” 

We tend to measure every opportunity by the potential return, calculating what we stand to gain. But let us not forget that that (Allah SWT), in His infinite wisdom, opens the doors of mercy to us in the most unimaginable ways. 

Imagine standing under the vast night sky with the weight of your past mistakes pressing on your shoulders. Then picture the doors of mercy and redemption being opened right in front of you. Imagine Allah (SWT), Al-Ghaffar—the Most Forgiving—calling you, offering you a chance to seek forgiveness for your sins. 

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: 

"Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, descends to the lowest heaven in the middle of the night of Sha’ban and forgives more people than the number of hair on the sheep of the tribe of Kalb." (Tirmidhi 739) 

Tonight is a night of seeking the mercy of Allah (SWT), making du’a, and increasing our acts of worship. 

The Prophet (ﷺ) spent many nights in prayer and following His Sunnah is the best way to strengthen our connection with Allah (SWT).  

Tonight, you should engage in Nafl salah, recite du’as for forgiveness, and ask for guidance, health, and protection for yourself and your loved ones. Talk to Him (SWT) like you would to a friend, without fear of judgement, and always remember, Al-Wali - ٱلْوَلِيُّ  (The Guardian/ Protecting Friend) because the Qur’an taught us, 

"And ask forgiveness of your Lord and turn to Him in repentance. Verily, my Lord is Most Merciful, Most Loving." (Qur’an 11:90) 

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to lose touch with the Holy Qur’an. Why not use this night to recite a few verses? Reflect on their meaning and ultimately strengthen your connection to Allah (SWT). 

One of the most powerful ways to earthe mercy of Allah (SWT) is through charity (Sadaqah and Zakat). The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 

"Charity extinguishes sin just as water extinguishes fire." (Tirmidhi) 

On this Night of Forgiveness, let us extend our mercy to those in need. Let us pray for those facing adversity across the globe. Your Zakat and Sadaqah have the power to change their lives. 

By donating to our life-changing projects, you can provide food, water, shelter, and education to the most vulnerable.  

Take a look at them here. 

May Allah accept our prayers, fasting, and charity, and grant us His infinite mercy. Ameen.