Dua and Quotes about the Month of Safar

Safar is the second month of the Islamic lunar calendar, following Muharram. Its name, which translates to "whistling of the wind" in Arabic, reflects the traditional view that it was a time of strong winds and harsh weather conditions in the Arabian Peninsula. Safar is to be observed on 5 August 2024.

Dua for the Month of Safar

The Safar Dua is to be recited ten times daily during the month of Safar to prevent misfortunes: 
“O He who has total, absolute and everlasting power, therefore is versatile and at all times gets the better of the impossible, the Almighty, the Dearest beloved. Dwarfed are all that which have been created by Thee before Thy Majesty. Keep me safe from the evil any of the created beings may direct at me. O, the praiseworthy who vies in beauty and goodness, does everything in a pleasant way, gives joy, heart, and confidence, and treats with love and kindness. O ‘There is no god save Thee. Be Thou glorified. Verily, I have been a wrongdoer. Then WE heard his prayer and saved him from the anguish. Thus, We save believers,’ Send blessings on Muhammad and on his Pure and Pious descendants.” 

As Safar was the month in which Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had migrated from Mecca to Medina to spread the word of Islam, it is also ideal to learn the relevant Duas associated with travel: 

Duas Related to Safar (Travelling) 

• Leaving home: 

Arabic: 

بِسْمِ اللهِ تَوَكَّلْتُ عَلَى اللهِ وَلاَ حَوْلَ وَلاَ قُوَّةَ إِلاَّ بِاللهِ 

Transliteration: 

Bismillah, tawakkaltu 'ala Allah, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billah. 

Translation: 

In the name of Allah, I place my trust in Allah, and there is no might nor power except with Allah. 

• Before starting a journey: 

Arabic: 

سُبْحَانَ الَّذِي سَخَّرَ لَنَا هَذَا وَمَا كُنَّا لَهُ مُقْرِنِينَ وَإِنَّا إِلَى رَبِّنَا لَمُنْقَلِبُونَ 

Transliteration: 

 Subhanalladhi sakhkhara lana hadha wama kunna lahu muqrinin wa inna ila Rabbina lamunqalibun. 

Translation:

Glory to Him who has subjected this to us, and we could never have it by our efforts. And surely, to our Lord, we are returning. Surah Az-Zukhruf (43:13-14). 

• Reaching your destination: 

Arabic: 

 اللّهُمَّ أَنْزِلْنِي مُنزَلاً مُبَارَكاً وَأَنْتَ خَيْرُ المُنزِلِينَ 

Transliteration:

Allahumma anzilni munzalan mubarakan wa anta khayru al-munzilin. 

Translation: 

O Allah, cause me to land a blessed landing, and You are the best of those who bring to land. 

Historical Significance 

Safar has various historical and cultural significances: 

1. Superstitions: In pre-Islamic Arabia, Safar was considered a month of misfortune and bad luck. Many people avoided significant actions such as marriages or starting new ventures. This superstition has been refuted in Islam, which teaches that all times are created by Allah (SWT) and thus are equally blessed. 

A Hadith from Sahih Muslim states: "There is no superstitious Owl, bird, no star-promising rain, no bad omen in the month of Safar" (Sahih Muslim 2220a). 

2. Battles and events: Several significant battles and events in early Islamic history occurred during Safar. Notably: 

• The Battle of Al-Raji: A battle during the time of Prophet Muhammad in 4 AH (After Hijra). 
• The Expedition of Bi’r Ma‘ūnah: An expedition that ended tragically in 4 AH. 

3. Hijra and migration: Although not directly tied to the month of Safar, the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) migration (Hijra) from Mecca to Medina happened in the Islamic calendar's first months, reflecting the period's importance in early Islamic history. 

4. Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) health decline: Our beloved Prophet (PBUH) fell significantly ill during this month, which resulted in his passing in Rabi-al-awwal. 

Religious Observances

Safar itself does not have specific religious observances or prescribed rituals unique to the month. However, it is a time for regular worship and reflection: 

1. Continuing worship: Muslims continue their regular acts of worship, such as daily prayers, fasting on Mondays and Thursdays, and reading the Quran. 
2. Avoiding superstition: The month serves as a reminder to Muslims to avoid superstitious beliefs and practices, as Islam emphasises that there are no inherently unlucky times. 
3. Devoted prayers: In some regions, special prayers and gatherings are held to seek protection and blessings from Allah (SWT), although these practices are more voluntary than compulsory. 
4. Charitable acts: It is common to perform acts of charity and kindness, emphasising the positive over any negative connotations historically associated with the month. 
5. Strengthening your faith: Maintaining a positive attitude and trust in Allah (SWT) is essential, as it aligns with the teachings of Islam regarding Tawakkul (trust in Allah (SWT)). 

Safar is largely observed as a time for Muslims to continue their worship, reflect on their faith, and engage in community and charitable activities. It serves as a reminder of the importance of focusing on the core teachings of Islam regarding our time here on earth and the hereafter.

In summary, while Safar may not be amongst the four sacred months in the Hijri Calendar, it is still a time like any other for regular worship and reflection, including charitable acts, emphasising that every moment is an opportunity for growth and good deeds.