The Night of Power (Arabic: لیلة القدر, Romanized: Laylat-ul-Qadr) also rendered as the Night of Destiny, Night of Decree, Night of Determination, or the Precious Night, in Islamic belief the night when Muslims believe the Quran was first sent down from heaven to the world, and also the night when its first verses were revealed to the Islamic prophet Muhammad; it is described as better than a thousand months of worshipping. According to various hadiths, its exact date is uncertain but was one of the odd-numbered nights of the last ten days of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Since that time, Muslims have regarded the last ten nights of Ramadan as being especially blessed. Muslims believe the Night comes again every year, with blessings and mercy of God in abundance. The surah al-Qadr is named after this night, and the purpose of the surah is to describe the greatness of the night.
When does Laylat-ul-Qadr occur?
While the exact date of Laylat-ul-Qadr is not definitively known, it is widely believed to occur on one of the odd-numbered nights during the last 10 days of Ramadan—specifically the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th nights. Among these, the 27th night is the one most commonly associated with Laylat-ul-Qadr, based on various narrations and traditions. Many believe that this night holds immense spiritual significance, as it is mentioned in the Qur'an as a night "better than a thousand months" (Qur'an 97:3). Muslims spend this night in prayer, worship, and seeking Allah's mercy, as it is considered a time when Allah blessings, mercy, and forgiveness are abundant.
How to observe Laylat-ul-Qadr?
- Perform extra worship (Ibadah): Engage in extra acts of worship such as reading the Qur'an, remembering Allah (dhikr), and making tasbih (praise) for as much as possible during the night.
- Give Zakat and Sadaqah: It’s a great time to give to those in need. Sadaqah (voluntary charity) is especially rewarding during this night, as acts of charity are amplified in their reward on Laylat-ul-Qadr.
- Pray Nafl prayers (voluntary prayers): Offering extra prayers (Salat al-Tahajjud) in the late hours of the night is a beautiful way to connect with Allah. The longer you stay in worship, the more rewarding it is, especially in the last ten nights of Ramadan.
- Make Du'a (Supplication): Laylat-ul-Qadr is a time when Allah’s mercy is abundant, so making heartfelt du'a for yourself, your loved ones, and the entire ummah (community) is encouraged. Ask for forgiveness and whatever you wish from Allah.
- Fast (if it’s the day of fasting): While fasting is an obligation during Ramadan, on Laylat-ul-Qadr, your fast is an additional act of worship that is highly rewarding, especially if you are engaged in prayers and acts of devotion throughout the day and night.
- Seek repentance: This night is a chance to ask for Allah’s forgiveness for any past mistakes or sins. Make sincere repentance (Tawbah) with a heart full of regret, seeking His mercy and forgiveness.
Dua of Laylat-ul-Qadr:
The most famous and recommended dua (supplication) for Laylat-ul-Qadr comes from the Hadith of Aisha (RA), who asked the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) about what to say on this blessed night. The Prophet (PBUH) advised her to recite the following:
اللْهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُعَنِّي
"O Allah, You are the Most Forgiving, and You love forgiveness, so forgive me."
This simple and powerful dua emphasizes seeking Allah's forgiveness, which is one of the most important things to ask for on Laylat-ul-Qadr, as it is a night when Allah’s mercy and forgiveness are abundant.
You can also make personal supplications, asking Allah for whatever you desire—whether it be guidance, blessings, or protection. Laylat-ul-Qadr is a time when Allah is especially receptive to the prayers and needs of His servants.
What does the Quran say about Laylat-ul-Qadr?
We are talking about Surah Al-Qadr (Chapter 97), where Allah talks about the significance of Laylat-ul-Qadr. The verses are as follows:
"Indeed, We have sent it [the Qur'an] down during the Night of Decree.
And what will make you know what the Night of Decree is?
The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.
The angels and the Spirit [Jibreel] descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter.
Peace it is until the emergence of dawn."
(Surah Al-Qadr, 97:1-5)
These verses highlight the unparalleled blessings of Laylatul Qadr. This is the night the Qur'an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Worship and deeds performed on Laylat-ul-Qadr are more rewarding than those of 1,000 months, which is over 83 years. In this night The angels, including Jibreel (Gabriel), descend to the Earth, bringing peace and blessings. Laylat-ul-Qadr is a night of peace and tranquility until the break of dawn.