Sacred night ushers in season of worship, reflection and spiritual renewal ahead of Ramadan

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Muslims in Türkiye and across much of the Islamic world are marking Laylat al-Raghaib, known locally as Regaip Kandili, a significant religious night that signals the beginning of Islam’s three holy months.

Laylat al-Raghaib is observed on the night between Thursday and Friday during the Islamic month of Rajab, the first of the sacred months that continue through Shaaban and culminate in Ramadan. The night is traditionally associated with mercy, blessings and increased devotion.

The term “raghaib” comes from Arabic and conveys meanings such as abundant gifts, divine generosity and things greatly desired. In Islamic scholarship, the term is linked to spiritual reward and virtuous deeds.

Rajab holds a special status in Islam as one of the sacred months. It is also associated with important religious events, including Isra and Miraj, which commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s night journey and ascension.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Omer Tiryaki, an expert with Türkiye’s Supreme Board of Religious Affairs, said historical sources indicate that the Prophet Muhammad observed voluntary fasting during Rajab, though no specific days were prescribed.

He described the three holy months as a spiritually rich period in which Muslims focus on renewing their faith, strengthening worship, improving moral conduct and increasing social responsibility.

Tiryaki noted that the season encourages believers to deepen taqwa, or consciousness of God, while also fostering compassion, charity and solidarity within society.

Across Türkiye, mosques are expected to hold special prayers, Qur’an recitations and sermons to mark Laylat al-Raghaib. Many Muslims also observe the night privately through prayer, reflection and acts of charity.

The three holy months are widely regarded as a period of spiritual preparation ahead of Ramadan, when fasting from dawn to sunset becomes obligatory for adult Muslims.

Laylat al-Raghaib is one of several sacred nights observed annually in Islam, alongside Laylat al-Miraj, Laylat al-Bara’ah and Laylat al-Qadr, all of which emphasize prayer, repentance and reflection.

Source: Daily Sabah