Sha'ban is the 8th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar. It comes before Ramadan (the 9th month) and after Rajab (the 7th month). The word Sha'ban means 'to branch out' or 'to spread.' The 15th night of Sha'ban (Shab-e-Barat or Laylat al-Bara'ah) is considered significant by many Muslims for worship and seeking forgiveness.