Month of Shaban is the 8th month in the Islamic calendar and is considered one of the meritorious months for which we find particular instructions in the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). The Arabic word Sha`ban is derived from the word ‘tash`aba’, which means "to go in different directions." It is said that Sha`ban takes such a name because the Arabs used to go in different directions fighting their enemies.

It is reported that Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), used to fast most of the month in Shaban except the last few days of the month. These fasts are supererogatory (nafl). Shaban is the month immediately preceding the month of Ramadan.

1. The blessed companion Usama ibn Zaid , reports that he asked Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) : "Messenger of Allah, I have seen you fasting in the month of Shaban so frequently that I have never seen you fasting in any other month." Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), replied: "That (Shaban) is a month between Rajab and Ramadan which is neglected by many people. And it is a month in which an account of the deeds (of human beings) is presented before the Lord of the universe, so, I wish that my deeds be presented at a time when I am in a state of fasting."

2. Ummul Mu'mineen 'Aishah (r), says, "Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) ,used to fast for most of Shaban. I said to him, 'Messenger of Allah, is Shaban your favorite month for fasting?' He said, 'In this month Allah prescribes the list of the persons dying this year. Therefore, I like that my death comes when I am in a state of fasting.' "

These reports indicate that fasting in the month of Shaban, though not obligatory but is very deserving and that Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) did not like to miss it.