Rajab

Overview

Rajab is the seventh month of the Islamic Hijri calendar and one of the four sacred months, alongside Muharram, Dhul Qa'dah, and Dhul Hijjah, in which warfare is traditionally prohibited and good deeds are multiplied in reward. The name Rajab derives from the Arabic root for respect or veneration. The month opens the three-month Ramadan preparation cycle: Rajab, Sha'ban, and Ramadan, often called collectively the months of mercy and preparation.

Notable Observances

The most significant night of Rajab is the twenty-seventh, the date traditionally associated with the Isra and Mi'raj — the Prophet's miraculous Night Journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and his ascent through the seven heavens. Many Muslims fast voluntarily on the first day of Rajab and on the twenty-seventh night, and intensify dua and Qur'an recitation throughout the month. Major Sufi orders host dhikr gatherings on the lailat ar-raghaib (the first Thursday night of Rajab).