The Night of Innocence (Laylat al-Barāʾa)

The Night of Innocence (Laylat al-Barāʾa) is celebrated according to the Islamic calendar on the 15th night of the month of Šaʿbān (the 8th month of the Islamic calendar). Sunni Muslims attach special significance to the Night of Innocence, as it is considered a time of devotion and forgiveness. During Šaʿbān, the Prophet Muhammad is said to have fasted extensively: ʿĀʾiša, the Prophet's wife, reported: "The Prophet fasted more frequently in no other month than in [the month of] Šaʿbān." [reported by Bukhari and Muslim] Moreover, there is a belief that God will forgive many sins on this night, which is why the repentant return to God (tawba) is particularly recommended for the believer. The night provides an opportunity to reflect on one's actions and to repent so that one can begin the following month of fasting, Ramaḍān, in a good spiritual state. The traditions and customs on this night can vary depending on the region and community. Some Muslims spend the night in prayer and additional recitation of the Quran, while others celebrate it with friends and family.