The Night of Power – Laylat-ul-Qadr
Written by Roneel Narayan on April 7, 2024
During Ramadan, one should reflect, pray, and deliver oneself from sin. While the emphasis of Ramadan is on fasting during daylight hours, it is also about strengthening one’s relationship with Allah (SWT) through worshipping, declaring His greatness and praying to Him.
Ramadan, in its entirety, is a special time in Islam, but the last 10 nights hold greater significance as they have the Night of Power amongst them, which is known as Laylat-al-Qadr in Arabic. Allah (SWT) has made this insight of great blessing and virtue. In the Qur’an, Allah (SWT) says:
“We sent it (this Qur’an) down on a blessed night.” [al-Dukhan 44:3]
What Is the Night of Power?– Laylat-al-Qadr Meaning
The Night of Power is the most venerated night of the Islamic calendar. During this night, Angel Jibril revealed the Holy Qur’an’s first verses to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
“Seek Laylat al-Qadr in the last ten days of Ramadan.” [Bukhari and Muslim]
This is a night of great reward and significance. On this blessed night, the believers are encouraged to devote themselves to the worship of Allah (SWT), Who has placed it higher in virtue than one thousand months.
-Surah Al-Qadr
What to do on Laylat al-Qadr
Charity
The Night of Power (Laylat-al-Qadr) allows you to multiply your rewards. This night is better than a thousand nights. The deeds performed on this night are better than those accomplished in a thousand months. Make sure you do not miss the rewards of giving on Laylat-al-Qadr.
Other Acts of Virtue on Laylat al-Qadr
The believers strive hard to earn the pleasure of Allah (SWT) and seek His forgiveness during this noble night. It is advisable to engage oneself in acts of worship such as recitation of the Holy Qur’an, reflecting on its meaning, supplicating to Allah (SWT) in prayers and giving in charity. On this night, the angels descend, Allah’s (SWT) mercy is sent down, and prayers are granted.
“Therein (that night) is decreed every matter of ordainments.
As a Command (or this Qur’an or the Decree of every matter) from Us. Verily, We are ever sending (the Messengers),
(As) a mercy from your Lord. Verily, He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.” [al-Dukhan 44:1-6]
When is Laylat-al-Qadr 2024?
The Night of Power occurs in Ramadan’s 10 final odd nights. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advised the believers to:
“Seek Laylat al-Qadr in the odd-numbered nights of the last ten nights.” [Bukhari, 4/259]
However, it is traditionally thought to take place on the 27th night, based on some narrations. In 2024, the 27th of Ramadan might fall on 7 April, with a variation of a couple of days depending on moonsighting.
Duas for Laylat-al-Qadr
The best dua for Laylat-al-Qadr is the dua the Prophet (PBUH) taught Aisha (R.A.)She is reported to have asked the Prophet (PBUH), “O Messenger of Allah If I know which night is Laylat al-Qadr, what should I say?” He said:
“Say: اللَّهمَّإنَّكعفُوٌّتُحبُّالعفوَفاعْفُعنِّي
Allahummainnakaafuwwuntuhibb al-afwafa’fu anni
(O Allah, You are All-Forgiving, and You love forgiveness, so forgive me).”
Signs of Laylat-al-Qadr
Laylat-al-Qadr is a peaceful night, as mentioned in the Qur’an. According to an authentic report from the Prophet (PBUH), the sign of Laylat al-Qadr is that the sun rises on the following morning with no visible rays.
Zakat On Laylat-al-Qadr
In addition to praying for our loved ones, we pray for and remember the less fortunate. One way of remembering the blessings and expressing gratitude is to give from one’s wealth. Giving Zakat, Zakat-al-Fitr, or Sadaqah is a significant factor in this, and, for many, Laylat-al-Qadr is seen as the perfect moment to make this donation.
