Reflections on Munajat Shabaniyyah

ABSTRACT: Shaban, the eighth month of the Islamic calendar, is considered the month of Allah ís mercy and pleasure. A prayer by Imam Ali attributed to this month, called Munajat Shabaniyyah, is a well-known and unique whispered prayer highly regarded by the Infallible Imams as well as mystics and philosophers. With careful attention to its meanings and advice, a person can achieve levels of perfection to reach a high status with Allah. The following offers a glance into some of its passages along with an explanation of the states of a person who calls to Allah, the ways to address Him and ask for His help, the effects of detachment from this world, and a response to a frequently asked question regarding the attitude and condition of a supplicant.