Is vowing to fast the first half of Sha’ban along with performing 11 rak’ahs of Qiyam al-Layl, completing a full recitation of the Qur’an, and consistently praying Fajr in the mosque considered an innovation (bid’ah) or does it involve a transgression of Islamic law? And is it permissible to involve others in this act as a form of competition in obedience?

Fasting in Sha'ban, performing eleven Rak'ahs, reciting and completing the Quran, and praying Fajr in the mosque are all permissible acts for which one is rewarded. If a Muslim vows to perform these acts of obedience, he must fulfill his vow. However, inviting brothers to these acts and holding a competition among them is not recommended, because the principle in acts of worship is concealment, out of a desire for sincerity, except for one who is safe from showing off and is worthy of being emulated. It is better to remind brothers of the virtue of acts of obedience and encourage them to strive in them secretly.