The office of the Supreme Religious Authority; Sayed al-Sistani announces that tomorrow will be the first of the month of Rajab.

The office of the Supreme Religious Authority; Sayed al-Sistani announces that tomorrow; Saturday, March 9, 2019 is the first of the month of Rajab 1440 AH, according to the statement issued by the office:

In the name of Allah the Most Merciful and the Most Compassionate

The vision of the crescent moon of the month of Rajab was not possible with the eye after the sunset of Thursday 29th of Jumada II 1440 AH in Iraq and the surrounding areas. Therefore, Saturday is the first day of this holy month.

It is to mention that the first day of the month of Rajab is a holy month of Allah, and is the month of the Commander of the Faithful Ali Ibn Abi Taleb (peace be upon him). It is also known as Al-Asab (meaning fast pouring), because in this blessed month, mercy is poured fast upon those who repent from the nation of the Holy Prophet Mohammad (Allah's prayers be upon him and upon his holy Household). It is the month of repentance, and it is recommended during the first day to:

The first: It is advisable to observe fasting on this day. According to narrations, Prophet Noah (peace be upon him) embarked on the Ark on such a day; he therefore ordered his companions to observe fasting. Hence, whoever observes fasting on this day, Hellfire will move away from him.

Second: Ghusl.

Third: It is also recommended to visit the tomb of Imam Al-Hussayn (peace be upon him) on this day. Sheikh has narrated on the authority of Basheer al-Dahhan that Imam Ja`far As-Sadeq (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever visits (Imam) Al-Hussayn ibn Ali (peace be upon both of them) on the first day of Rajab, Almighty Allah will forgive him all his sins.”