What is Laylatul-Qadr?
Laylatul-Qadr, also known as the Night of Decree or Power, is one of the holiest nights in the Islamic calendar. It is a night filled with unmatched blessings and mercy from Allah. The Quran describes this night as “better than a thousand months” (Quran 97:3), which means that acts of worship performed on Laylatul-Qadr carry the reward equivalent to those done over 83 years. Missing this night means missing a tremendous opportunity for spiritual reward and closeness to Allah.
For Muslims, this night is a time to seek forgiveness, reflect, and increase their acts of worship. It is a chance for believers to have their past sins wiped clean and to earn an immense amount of good deeds.
Importance of Prayers (Salah) on Laylatul-Qadr
One of the most recommended acts during Laylatul-Qadr is the performance of Qiyam al-Layl, or night prayers. Numerous hadiths emphasize the importance of standing in prayer during this night:
Abu Dharr (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that during Ramadan, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) led the night prayer only during the last seven nights. On one of those nights, he stood with the believers until one-third of the night had passed, and on another night, he led them until half the night had passed. When asked why he didn’t lead the entire night, the Prophet (PBUH) responded, “Whoever stands in prayer with the Imam until the Imam finishes, it will be recorded for him as though he prayed the entire night” (Abu Dawud, At-Tirmidhi).
Similarly, the Prophet (PBUH) said, “Whoever stands in prayer during Laylatul-Qadr with faith and hoping for reward from Allah, all of their past sins will be forgiven” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).
Maximizing Supplications on Laylatul-Qadr
Dua (supplication) is another powerful act of worship on this blessed night. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) asked the Prophet (PBUH) what supplication to make if she knew which night was Laylatul-Qadr. The Prophet (PBUH) taught her to say:
“Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun, tuhibbul ‘afwa, fa’fu ‘annee”
(“O Allah, You are the Forgiver, You love to forgive, so forgive me”) (Ahmad, Ibn Majah, At-Tirmidhi).
This simple yet profound dua captures the essence of seeking Allah’s forgiveness on this night of mercy.
Prioritizing Worship Over Worldly Activities
Laylatul-Qadr is a night to disconnect from worldly distractions and focus entirely on worship. The Prophet (PBUH) would increase his efforts in the last ten nights of Ramadan, during which Laylatul-Qadr is believed to fall. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Prophet (PBUH) would stay up all night, pray, and awaken his family for worship during these nights (Al-Bukhari, Muslim).
Muslims are encouraged to follow the Prophet’s example by dedicating these nights to Salah, Quran recitation, and dhikr (remembrance of Allah), putting aside distractions to make the most of this blessed time.
Why is Laylatul-Qadr Special?
Laylatul-Qadr is a night unlike any other because the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during this night. Its significance is highlighted in Surah Al-Qadr, where Allah says, “The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months” (Quran 97:3). This means that worship and good deeds performed on this night are better than performing the same deeds for over 83 years.
Additionally, the night is a chance for the forgiveness of past sins. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Whoever stands in prayer on Laylatul-Qadr out of sincere faith and hope for a reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven” (Al-Bukhari).
Acts of Worship on Laylatul-Qadr
- Night Prayer (Qiyam al-Layl): The most important act during this night is standing in long prayers. It is recommended to join the congregation in prayers, including the Witr prayer, as doing so ensures that it is recorded as though you prayed the whole night.
- Recitation of Quran: This night marks the beginning of the revelation of the Quran, making it an excellent time to recite the Quran and reflect on its meanings.
- Supplications and Dhikr: Laylatul-Qadr is a perfect time for dua. It is advised to ask for forgiveness, mercy, and guidance. The dua taught by the Prophet (PBUH) to Aisha is especially significant.
- Seeking Forgiveness: Laylatul-Qadr is a night of mercy, and Muslims are encouraged to seek Allah’s forgiveness sincerely. Even the Prophet (PBUH), who was free of sin, would increase his prayers and supplications, hoping for Allah’s mercy.
- Salatul Tasbeeh: Some scholars also recommend praying Salatul Tasbeeh on Laylatul-Qadr to increase one’s good deeds and spiritual connection.
The Last Ten Nights of Ramadan
The exact date of Laylatul-Qadr is unknown, although it is commonly believed to fall on one of the odd-numbered nights during the last ten nights of Ramadan. This uncertainty encourages Muslims to increase their worship throughout the last ten nights to ensure they don’t miss this blessed night.
Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said, “The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) would strive more in worship during the last ten nights than at any other time of the year” (Muslim). Therefore, it’s encouraged to dedicate more time to prayers, Quran recitation, and seeking forgiveness during these nights.
Conclusion
Laylatul-Qadr is an extraordinary gift from Allah, a night full of blessings, mercy, and forgiveness. Muslims should strive to make the most of this night by standing in prayer, making dua, and seeking forgiveness, with the hope that Allah will accept their worship and forgive their past sins.
By understanding its importance and incorporating acts of worship like Salah, recitation of Quran, and supplication, we can truly benefit from Laylatul-Qadr. Let’s strive to seek Allah’s mercy and make this night a turning point in our spiritual lives.