Rajab Al-Murajab is the seventh month of the Islamic year. The name “Rajab” is derived from the word “Tarjeeb,” meaning to honor or venerate. This month is considered sacred, and fighting or conflict was traditionally avoided during it. Hence, it was also called “Rajab Al-Asamm,” meaning the “Silent Rajab,” as no sounds of weapons were heard.

Rajab Al-Murajab is the seventh month of the Islamic year. The name “Rajab” is derived from the word “Tarjeeb,” meaning to honor or venerate. This month is considered sacred, and fighting or conflict was traditionally avoided during it. Hence, it was also called “Rajab Al-Asamm,” meaning the “Silent Rajab,” as no sounds of weapons were heard. It is also referred to as “Rajab Al-Asab” because Allah showers special mercy and blessings upon His servants during this month. Acts of worship and prayers are especially accepted during this time. In the era of ignorance, the oppressed would curse their oppressors during Rajab. (Reference: Ajayib Al-Makhluqat)

The Significance of Isra and Miraj

According to Hadith, Rajab is referred to as the “Month of Allah.” On the 27th night of Rajab, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was granted the miraculous journey of Isra and Miraj. This journey began from the house of Umm Hani near the Ka’bah and was accompanied by Angel Jibreel and other angels.

Observances and Recommendations During Rajab

1. Worship and Prayers: Muslims are encouraged to engage in increased acts of worship, including additional prayers, fasting, and Qur’anic recitation.
2. Celebrating Isra and Miraj: Gatherings should be held in mosques, schools, and homes, illuminating spaces and listening to sermons about the journey of Miraj.
3. Teaching Children: Families are encouraged to narrate the story of Miraj to children, emphasizing its lessons, including the significance of Salah (prayer).

Special Nawafil (Voluntary Prayers) in Rajab

First Night of Rajab

Perform 20 rak’ahs after Maghrib with the following recitations:

• Surah Al-Fatiha once
• Surah Al-Ikhlas three times

Laylat Al-Raghaib

On the first Thursday night of Rajab, offer 12 rak’ahs. In each rak’ah, recite:

• Surah Al-Fatiha once
• Surah Al-Qadr three times
• Surah Al-Ikhlas twelve times

After completing the prayer, recite 70 times: “Allahumma Salli Ala Muhammad An-Nabiy Al-Ummi wa Ala Aalihi wa Sallim”

27th Night of Rajab

Spend the night in prayer and recite particular duas for blessings and forgiveness. Offer two rak’ahs in each cycle, reciting:

• Surah Al-Fatiha once
• Surah Al-Ikhlas seven times

After the prayer, recite 70 times: “Astaghfirullaha Rabbi Min Kulli Dhanbin Wa Atoobu Ilayhi.”

Lessons from Isra and Miraj

The miraculous journey emphasizes the significance of:

• Salah (Prayer): The night prayer was established during this journey.
• Faith in the Unseen: Belief in Allah’s power and the miracles bestowed upon His Prophets.

Rajab serves as a spiritual precursor to the holy month of Ramadan, providing a time to purify oneself and seek Allah’s forgiveness and blessings.