For Shia Muslims worldwide, the blessed month of Ramadan represents the pinnacle of spiritual rejuvenation. It is the month when the Holy Quran was revealed in its entirety to the heart of the Prophet (S.A.W) on Laylat al-Qadr. This guide outlines the paramount supplications and historical milestones observed during this sacred season.
1. Dua al-Iftitah: The Nightly Supplication
Taught by the 12th Imam, Imam Muhammad al-Mahdi (A.J.T.F), through his special deputy, Dua al-Iftitah (The Opening Supplication) is recited every single night of Ramadan after Maghrib prayers. It opens with exquisite praises of Allah’s infinite compassion, passes into heartfelt confession of human weakness, and culminates in an ardent, moving plea for the reappearance of the Awaited Savior and the establishment of divine justice.
2. Dua Abu Hamza al-Thumali: The Cry of Dawn
Transmitted by the celebrated companion Abu Hamza al-Thumali from the 4th Infallible Imam, Ali ibn al-Husayn Zayn al-Abideen (A.S). Recited during the silent pre-dawn hours of Suhoor, this lengthy, tearful supplication is widely considered one of the highest literary and mystical peaks of Islamic spirituality.
3. Laylat al-Qadr: The Nights of Destiny
According to Ahlulbayt teachings, Laylat al-Qadr is concealed within the odd nights of the last third of Ramadan, predominantly the 19th, 21st, and 23rd nights, with the 23rd night possessing the greatest probability. The special A'maal include:
- Ghusl (Ritual Bath): Recommended at sunset before commencing prayers.
- 100 Rak'ats of Prayer: Seeking divine forgiveness.
- Placing the Holy Quran on the Head: Invoking Allah by the Quran and by each of the 14 Infallibles (A.S).
- Recitation of Dua Jawshan al-Kabeer: 1,000 sacred names of Allah.
- Ziyarat of Imam Husayn (A.S): Spiritual visitation of Karbala.
4. Significant Historical Milestones
- 10th Ramadan: Demise of Lady Khadijah al-Kubra (S.A), Mother of the Believers and patron of early Islam.
- 15th Ramadan: Joyous birth anniversary of the 2nd Imam, Al-Hasan ibn Ali al-Mujtaba (A.S).
- 19th Ramadan: The fatal strike on Ameer al-Mu'mineen Imam Ali (A.S) by Ibn Muljim in the Kufa Mosque during Fajr prayer.
- 21st Ramadan: The martyrdom of Imam Ali (A.S).