Laylatul Qadr

Ramadan is one of the most important months for Muslims. It is a time of increased worship, spiritual cleansing, good deeds and acts of charity. Because of Allah’s love and mercy for us, the reward for every good deed performed during Ramadan is increased by 70.

The last ten days and nights are even more significant since they include even bigger rewards and blessings. These days are an opportunity for us to recognize the advantages of Ramadan and seek forgiveness before the month ends.

Although being promised Paradise, the Prophet Muhammad used to devote himself even more in worship during these final 10 days, trying to draw closer to Allah. The Prophet’s wife A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said, “With the start of the last ten days of Ramadan, the Prophet used to tighten his waist belt (i.e., work hard) and used to pray all night, and used to keep his family awake for the prayers.” (Hadith, Bukhari and Muslim)

One of the most important practices during the last 10 days of Ramadan is itikaf. Itikaf involves staying in a mosque or other place of worship for a period of time, typically three days or more. During this time, Muslims engage in intense prayer and reflection, often reading the Quran and engaging in other spiritual practices. Itikaf is a time for believers to detach themselves from the distractions of the world and focus entirely on their relationship with Allah.

Another important practice during the last 10 days of Ramadan is seeking Laylatul Qadr or the Night of Decree or Night of Power, it’s one of the most sacred nights in the Islamic calendar. It was the night in which the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and falls within the last ten nights of Ramadan. Allah says in the Qur’an, “The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months,” (Qur’an, 97:3). This means that when a good deed is performed on Laylatul Qadr, it is as though it has been done for over 1,000 months. The exact date of Laylatul Qadr is unknown, however it is said to take place on an odd night during the last ten days of Ramadan (e.g., the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27 or 29th night).

The last ten days of Ramadan are an opportunity to reap several blessings by giving sadaqah to those in need in order to seek Allah’s favour.

The benefits of providing sadaqah during Ramadan are multiplied by 70, and the reward for every virtuous act performed during Laylatul Qadr is equivalent to performing the same act for more than 83 years!

The last ten days of Ramadan eventually end in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. It’s a time of great joy and celebration, as Muslims gather with family and friends to share meals and exchange gifts. It is a moment to look back on the benefits of the previous month, as well as to reaffirm one’s commitment to faith and spiritual practice.