Training in Shaban
"The month of the Reciters." Actionable steps from the Prophet's (ﷺ) practice to prepare your heart for Ramadan.
What is Shaban?
Shaban is the 8th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, immediately preceding Ramadan. It is considered a "bridge" month—a critical time for spiritual preparation. The Prophet (ﷺ) would increase his worship during this time to condition his heart and body for the intense devotion of Ramadan, likening it to watering the seeds sown in Rajab to harvest them in Ramadan.
Increase Voluntary Fasting
Fast frequently, especially on Mondays, Thursdays, or the White Days (13th, 14th, 15th), as deeds are raised in this month.
"Deeds are presented to Allah in Shaban, and the Prophet (ﷺ) loved for his deeds to be raised while he was in a state of fasting."
Intensify Qur'an Recitation
Revive your relationship with the Qur'an. Early Muslims called Shaban 'The Month of Reciters' to prepare their hearts for Ramadan.
"Softens the heart and serves as a 'warm-up' so you enter Ramadan ready to fully engage with the Qur'an, rather than struggling to start."
Make Up Missed Fasts
Complete any missed obligatory fasts (Qada) from the previous Ramadan before the new one arrives.
"Fulfilling obligatory debts to Allah takes precedence over voluntary acts and purifies one's record before the new year of fasting begins."
Moon Sighting Awareness
Be vigilant about the lunar calendar. The Prophet (ﷺ) counted the days of Shaban meticulously to ensure the accurate start of Ramadan.
"Ensures the accuracy of the obligatory worship. It demonstrates a high level of mindfulness (Taqwa) and eagerness for the holy month."
Dua for Reaching Ramadan
Ask Allah to bless your time in Shaban and allow you to reach Ramadan in good health and faith.
"Acknowledges our dependence on Allah's will. The Salaf used to pray for six months just to reach Ramadan, showing the immense value of the month."
Immediate Action Plan
Simple, practical steps you can take today to align with the Prophetic method.
Check Your Fasting Debt
Calculate if you have any missed fasts from last year. Schedule them immediately.
Start a Quran Schedule
Don't wait for Ramadan. Start reading 5-10 minutes daily now to build the habit.
Mark the White Days
Plan to fast the 13th, 14th, and 15th of Shaban if you can.
Clear Your Heart
Shaban is the time to resolve grudges so your deeds are raised without barrier.