The month of safar is the second month in the Hijri calendar. This month has its own meaning and privilege in Islamic traditions, although not as popular as other months such as Ramadan and Muharam. In this case we will discuss the understanding of the month of safar and its features, as well as some of the recommended practices during this month.

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1. Understanding the month of safar

The word "safar" in Arabic means "journey". This month is known as a month that is often associated with travel and wandering. As stated by Imam Ibn Kathir:

صَفَرْ: سُمِيَ بِذَلِكَ لِخُلُوِّ بُيُوْتِهِمْ مِنpet

That is, "Safar is called the name, because of their lonely homes from them, when they come out for war and travel." (Ibn Kathir, Tafsîrubnu Katsîr, [Dârut Thayyibah, 1999], Juz IV, page 146).

 In the history of Islam, the Safar Moon is also a moment of several important events that have occurred, such as the marriage of the Prophet with Sayyidah Khadijah and the victory of Muslims in the Khaibar War.

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 2. Safar Month Privileges

·         The Moon is known as the trip

         Safar is often associated with travel, both physically and spiritually. In this context, the safar month can be a reminder for Muslims to reflect on their life journey and the final goal to be achieved.

·         The month avoided by some people

         In some traditions the safar month is considered a month that carries bad luck or difficulties. However, this view does not have a basis in Islamic teachings. Islam teaches that everything that happens is part of God's destiny, and there is no month that brings bad luck.

·         Important events in the month of safar

         Some important events in Islamic history occur in the month of safar. Rasulullah SAW once did a variety of noble things this month, for example the Prophet Muhammad held a marriage with Sayyidah Khadijah, the Prophet also married Sayyidina Ali with Sayyidah Fatimah, and the migration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina also occurred in the month of safar. This makes the Safar Moon a month that has a high historical value.

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3. The recommended practice

      Although there is no special practice required during the safar month, there are some practices that can be done to increase spirituality:

·         Increase worship

         The month of safar is a good time to increase worship, such as reading the Qur'an and increasing praying. This is an opportunity to get closer to Allah SWT and improve themselves.

·         Self -reflection

         Use this month to reflect on life's journey and evaluate themselves. What has been achieved and what needs to be improved. This is a good time to make a new resolution.

·         Pray for good

         Pray for prayers to be given protection and kindness in the journey of life. Prayer is one of the ways to ask for the help of Allah SWT in every aspect of life.

·         Maintain friendship

         Visiting family and friends to keep the relationship well. This is part of a social practice that is highly recommended in Islam.     

Conclusion

         The month of safar has its own meaning and privilege in the Islamic tradition. Although not as popular as other months, this month remains an important time to reflect on life's journey and increase worship.

         By doing good practice and maintaining social relations, Muslims can use the Safar Moon as an opportunity to improve themselves to be closer to Allah SWT. May the month of safar bring blessings and kindness to all of us Aamiin. 

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