Laylatul Qadr, also known as the Night of Power, is one of the most sacred and blessed nights in Islam. It occurs during the last ten nights of Ramadan, and its exact date is not specified, though it is most commonly believed to fall on the 27th night. This night holds immense significance in the Islamic faith, as it marks the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel). Allah (SWT) describes this night in the Quran as:
“Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.”
(Quran, Surah Al-Qadr, 97:1-5)
This verse highlights the unparalleled value of Laylatul Qadr. Worship and good deeds performed on this night are considered superior to those performed over a thousand months, equivalent to more than 83 years. It is a night of immense barakah (blessings), mercy, and forgiveness, offering Muslims a unique opportunity to seek Allah’s pleasure and draw closer to Him.
اللْهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُعَنِّي
“O Allah, indeed, You are the Pardoner, You love to Pardon, so Pardon me.” [Tirmidhi]
A’isha radi Allahu `anha (may Allah be pleased with her) asked the Prophet ﷺ (peace be upon him), “If I knew which night is Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power), what should I say during it?”
The Prophet ﷺ told her to say: Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni. (O Allah, indeed, You are the Pardoner, You love to Pardon, so Pardon me.) [Tirmidhi]
“The Night of Glory is better than a thousand months.”
— Al Qur’aan {97:3}
The Significance of Laylatul Qadr
Laylatul Qadr is a night of reflection, prayer, and seeking forgiveness. It is a time to reconnect with Allah, repent for past sins, and make sincere dua (supplication). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to seek this night and engage in worship. He said:
“Whoever stands (in prayer) during Laylatul Qadr with faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 1901)
This Hadith emphasizes the importance of dedicating oneself to worship during this night, as it is a chance for spiritual renewal and forgiveness.
How to Observe Laylatul Qadr
- Prayer (Salah): Engage in voluntary prayers, such as Taraweeh and Tahajjud. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer.” (Sahih Muslim, 1163)
- Recitation of the Quran: Spend time reciting and reflecting on the Quran. This night is a reminder of the Quran’s revelation, so connecting with the Book of Allah is highly rewarding.
- Dua (Supplication): Make heartfelt dua for yourself, your family, and the Ummah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught a specific dua for Laylatul Qadr:
“Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni”
(O Allah, You are Forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me).
(Sunan Ibn Majah, 3850) - Charity (Sadaqah): Give charity to those in need. Acts of kindness and generosity are especially rewarded during Ramadan and on this blessed night.
- Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah): Engage in dhikr, such as saying “SubhanAllah,” “Alhamdulillah,” and “Allahu Akbar,” to keep your heart connected to Allah.
A Gift for Laylatul Qadr: A Reminder of Barakah
As we strive to make the most of Laylatul Qadr, let us remember that the greatest gift we can give ourselves and others is the gift of faith and remembrance of Allah. A beautiful Hadith reminds us:
“Exchange gifts, as it increases love between you.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 2566)
This Ramadan, consider giving a meaningful gift, such as a Quran, Islamic books, or even a heartfelt note encouraging loved ones to seek Laylatul Qadr. Such gifts not only strengthen bonds but also inspire others to draw closer to Allah.
Conclusion
Laylatul Qadr is a night of immense spiritual potential, offering us a chance to seek forgiveness, blessings, and closeness to Allah. Let us strive to make the most of this opportunity, dedicating ourselves to worship, reflection, and good deeds. May Allah grant us the ability to witness this blessed night and accept our efforts. Ameen.
“O Allah, make this night a means of mercy, forgiveness, and salvation for us. Grant us the strength to worship You sincerely and to seek Your pleasure. Ameen.”
