All public and private schools across Sindh will remain closed on Friday, February 14, in observance of Shab-e-Barat, a night of deep spiritual significance in the Islamic calendar.
The Sindh Education Department officially announced the holiday through a notification issued after consultations with the steering committee on education. The decision was made to facilitate students, teachers, and staff in participating in religious activities associated with this sacred occasion. In previous years, similar holidays have been declared, allowing individuals to observe the night without the concern of academic or professional obligations.
Significance of Shab-e-Barat
Shab-e-Barat, observed on the 15th night of the Islamic month of Shaban, holds immense religious and spiritual importance for Muslims worldwide. It is considered a night of divine mercy, forgiveness, and blessings. According to Islamic traditions, it is believed that on this night, Allah determines the destinies of individuals for the coming year, including matters of life, death, and sustenance. Because of this belief, many Muslims dedicate the night to seeking forgiveness, repenting for past mistakes, and making supplications for a prosperous future.
One of the most common observances during Shab-e-Barat is offering special prayers, known as Nafl prayers, both at home and in mosques. Many also engage in Quranic recitations, zikr (remembrance of Allah), and duas (supplications). It is also a common practice to fast the following day, as fasting on the 15th of Shaban is considered virtuous in Islamic teachings.
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