Lailatul Raghaib, also known as the Night of Desires, is a significant event in the Islamic calendar. This magical night holds great importance as it marks the beginning of the blessed month of Rajab.
Muslims worldwide eagerly anticipate this occasion due to its spiritual significance and the opportunity it presents for seeking divine blessings and fulfillment of desires.
In this article, we delve into understanding when Lailatul Raghaib occurs in 2024 and explore its historical significance within Islamic traditions.
Additionally, we examine the various Hadiths (sayings or actions of Prophet Muhammad) that shed light on the virtues associated with this special night.
When Is Lailatul Raghaib 2024?
The Central Hilal Committee of North America has officially announced that Saturday, January 13, 2024, will mark the beginning of the month of Rajab 1445 AH. This declaration follows the sighting of the crescent moon, a significant event in the Islamic calendar.
| Rajab | Day | Gregorian |
| 1 | Saturday | 13 January |
| 2 | Sunday | 14 January |
| 3 | Monday | 15 January |
| 4 | Tuesday | 16 January |
| 5 | Wednesday | 17January |
| 6 | Thursday | 18 January |
Lailatul Raghaib, also known as the Night of Wishes, is an essential night for Muslims that falls on the first Thursday night of the Islamic month of Rajab. It is believed to be a blessed night where prayers and supplications are highly recommended.
In a recent announcement, it has been confirmed that the auspicious night of Lailatul Raghaib is set to fall on January 18, 2024. This announcement comes as the first Thursday of the month of Rajab aligns with the 6th of Rajab in the Islamic calendar.
What Is Lailatul Raghaib?
Many Muslims observe this night by performing unique acts of worship to seek blessings from Allah and strengthen their relationship with Him.
One of the effective practices of Lailatul Raghaib is the recitation of a 12 Rakat Salat (prayer) between Isha (night prayer) and Midnight.
This prayer is performed in sets of two Rakats, each followed by a specific supplication. It is believed that by observing this prayer, one can seek forgiveness for their sins, ask for their wishes to be granted, and gain closeness to Allah.
Overall, Lailatul Raghaib holds great spiritual significance for Muslims who strive to improve their connection with Allah. It serves as an opportunity to engage in different acts of worship and seek blessings during this special night.
By observing the recommended practices on Lailatul Raghaib, individuals hope to strengthen their faith and receive divine mercy and guidance.
Laylat Al-maghrib Hadith: A Night of Spiritual Significance
Laylat Al-maghrib, known as the Night of Desires, holds immense spiritual significance in Islamic tradition. This holy night falls on the first Thursday in the Islamic month of Rajab and is considered a time for Muslims to seek divine blessings and forgiveness.
The Hadith, or teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), shed light on the virtues and rituals associated with this sacred night.
According to one Hadith, Laylat Al-maghrib is a night when Allah showers His mercy upon those who sincerely seek His forgiveness. It is believed that angelic hosts descend to earth during this night to record individuals’ deeds and supplications.
Lailatul Raghaib Significance
Lailatul Raghaib holds immense significance in the Islamic calendar as it marks the beginning of the “Three holy months.” Known as Rajab, Sha’ban, and leading up to Ramazan, Muslims consider these three months sacred.
Lailatul Raghaib is observed on the first Thursday night of Rajab and is believed to be a night filled with blessings and mercy from Allah.
During this auspicious night, Muslims engage in various acts of worship and seek forgiveness for their sins. Many believers spend the entire night in prayer and contemplation, seeking spiritual purification and repentance.
It is also common for mosques to organize special gatherings where religious scholars deliver sermons about the significance of this blessed occasion.
Conclusion Points
Lailatul Raghaib is an important night in the Islamic calendar that holds great significance for believers. It is a night of mercy and forgiveness, where prayers are believed to be answered, and blessings are bestowed upon those who seek them.
The hadiths related to this night emphasize the importance of seeking forgiveness, performing acts of worship, and showing gratitude to Allah.
Muslims are excited for the upcoming month of Rajab, particularly for the first Thursday night on the 18th of January 2024.
Let us make the most of this blessed occasion by worshiping and seeking Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.
FAQs About Laylat al-Raghaib
What is Laylat al-Raghaib?
Laylat al-Raghaib, also known as the “Night of Wishes,” is a night of prayer in Islamic practice, observed in various ways by different Muslim communities.
Who primarily observes Laylat al-Raghaib?
Laylat al-Raghaib is primarily observed by Muslims influenced by Sufism, such as those in Turkey, Muslim Balkan communities, and Shia Muslims. Sunni Muslims in the Arab world generally pay less attention to it.
What are the different views among Muslim scholars regarding Laylat al-Raghaib?
Muslim scholars have varying views on the permissibility of observing Laylat al-Raghaib. Some consider it a meritorious innovation (bid’ah hasanah), while others view it as an unacceptable innovation (bid’ah) in Islamic practice.
What does “Raghaib” mean, and why is it significant?
“Raghaib” is derived from the Arabic root word “ra-gha-ba,” meaning “to desire” or “to tend toward.” Laylat al-Raghaib is significant as it marks the beginning of the “Three holy months” in the Islamic calendar.
When is Laylat al-Raghaib celebrated?
Laylat al-Raghaib is celebrated on the Thursday night preceding the first Friday of the month of Rajab in the Islamic calendar.
What is the historical origin of Laylat al-Raghaib?
Laylat al-Raghaib is believed to have originated around Jerusalem in the late 11th century. It is associated with a hadith, though of doubtful authenticity, which speaks of the angels gathering during this night.
What does the hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad say about Laylat al-Raghaib?
The hadith mentions that during the first Thursday night of Rajab, the angels gather at the Ka’ba, and God grants their wish for the forgiveness of those who fast during Rajab.
Have there been debates and discussions about Laylat al-Raghaib among scholars?
Yes, in the early 13th century, a public debate on Raghaib prayers occurred in Damascus, where scholars expressed differing views on whether it was an innovation or meritorious innovation in Islam.
Was Laylat al-Raghaib ever banned in Islamic history?
Yes, Sultan al-Malik al-Kamil of the Ayyubid dynasty forbade the performance of Raghaib prayer in mosques in 1235, but it was later permitted again based on different scholarly opinions.
How did the Ottoman Empire view Laylat al-Raghaib?
In the Ottoman Empire, Laylat al-Raghaib customs spread, and it became a common custom to light up minarets on this night. The practice was also defended by Ottoman scholars.
What is the significance of Laylat al-Raghaib in religious tradition?
Laylat al-Raghaib is believed to be a night of special importance when angels gather, and God is especially responsive to prayers and forgiveness requests.
What practices are recommended on Laylat al-Raghaib?
It is recommended to fast on Thursday and Friday, recite specific prayers, perform correction prayers, recite the Quran, repent, ask for forgiveness, make dua (supplication), and engage in praise and gratitude.
What is the significance of reciting certain prayers and Quranic verses on Laylat al-Raghaib?
Muslims believe that reciting these prayers and verses on Laylat al-Raghaib brings blessings, forgiveness, and spiritual rewards.
How is charity (Zakat) associated with Laylat al-Raghaib?
Some Muslims practice almsgiving (Zakat) on Laylat al-Raghaib, believing that it fosters love for God and helps transfer the owner of charity to the love of God.
Are there specific times or periods of the night that hold special significance during Laylat al-Raghaib?
Laylat al-Raghaib is particularly significant during the first third of the night, as it is believed that during this time, angels gather and special prayers are answered.
Do Sunni and Shia Muslims observe Laylat al-Raghaib differently?
While both Sunni and Shia communities may observe Laylat al-Raghaib, the customs and practices may vary. Shia scholars generally permit its observance, whereas Sunni opinions differ.
Is fasting on Laylat al-Raghaib limited to one day?
Fasting on Laylat al-Raghaib typically involves fasting on both Thursday and Friday, although some may choose to fast only on Friday.
Is Laylat al-Raghaib widely observed by Muslims globally?
Laylat al-Raghaib is observed more commonly in specific regions, such as Turkey and Balkan communities, and among Shia Muslims. Its observance is less widespread among Sunni Muslims.
Is there a specific set of prayers to be recited on Laylat al-Raghaib?
Yes, there are recommended prayers and Quranic recitations for Laylat al-Raghaib, including specific numbers of rak’ats and recitations of Surah al-Qadr and Surah “Ikhlas.”
What is the significance of reciting praise to the Prophet Muhammad on Laylat al-Raghaib?
Reciting praise to the Prophet Muhammad during Laylat al-Raghaib is an expression of love and respect for the Prophet and is believed to bring spiritual rewards.
