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The month of Sha’ban holds a very special significance in Islam, as it was the favorite month of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Among the twelve months of the Islamic calendar, Sha’ban is considered a blessed period of spiritual preparation for the holy month of Ramadan. Authentic narrations reveal that the Prophet (SAW) used to fast voluntarily more in Sha’ban than in any other month, except Ramadan.
According to Aisha (RA), the wife of the Prophet (SAW):
"I never saw the Messenger of Allah (SAW) fast in any month more than he fasted in Sha’ban. He used to fast all of Sha’ban (or most of it)."
(Reported in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim)
This shows that while Ramadan is undoubtedly the most sacred month in terms of obligatory worship, the Prophet (SAW)’s personal love and devotion were strongly connected with Sha’ban. His fasting in Sha’ban served as a way of preparing spiritually and physically for the upcoming Ramadan.
Preparation for Ramadan: It was a month of training and building consistency in fasting.
Increase in Good Deeds: Deeds are presented to Allah in Sha’ban, and the Prophet (SAW) preferred that his record be raised while he was fasting.
Night of Mid-Sha’ban (Shab-e-Barat): Many scholars note that this night carries special blessings and opportunities for forgiveness.
Ramadan: The holiest month in Islam, but not specifically mentioned as the Prophet’s “favorite” for voluntary fasting.
Rajab: Also a sacred month, but the Prophet (SAW) did not emphasize it the way he did with Sha’ban.
Sha’ban (Correct): Clearly established in Hadith as the Prophet’s most beloved month for fasting.
Safar: No special preference is reported for this month.
Thus, the correct answer is Sha’ban (option_3), as it was the month Prophet Muhammad (SAW) loved most for extra worship and fasting.
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