How long is the Night of Power?
In the Islamic calendar, the start of each new calendar day begins at Maghrib prayer (just after sunset). It coincides with Tahajjud prayers, which occurs each night between Isha prayer (the evening prayer) and Fajr Prayer (the morning prayer). Allah (SWT) says that each night, He descends to the lowest heavens in the last third of the night. Waking up just 20 mins before Fajr to make Tahajjud prayers and Du’a could earn bountiful rewards!
Even though the beginning of the new day begins at Maghrib, the Night of Power begins and extends from Maghrib to Fajr time.
How is the Night of Power observed?
Muslims around the world are encouraged to observe The Night of Power by making extra Ibaadah (worship). Therefore, this could include acts such as giving Zakat (alms giving) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity), praying Nafl prayers (voluntary prayers), and making Du’a.
In some cases, communities may encourage each other to gather together at the Mosque in the last ten nights to pray or fundraise Sadaqah in the hope of catching extra rewards, However, Laylatul Qadr may be observed at home in solitude, in Itikaf (devotion to Ibaadah inside a mosque for the last ten nights) or in a visit to a mosque. However, there is no prescribed way to observe The Night of Power.
How is the Night of Power celebrated?
Although Laylatul Qadr is the most important night in the Islamic year (despite its exact date being unknown), it is not a celebratory night. Muslims are encouraged to seek it throughout Ramadan and specifically in the last ten nights, by being steadfast in their worship in the hope of catching it and earning exceptional reward.
Religious Importance of Laylatul Qadr
The Night of Power marks the single most important event in the Islamic calendar, the revelation of the Qur’an. During the month of Ramadan in 610 CE, the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and thus began the Prophethood of the Messenger of Allah with a message to humanity for the remainder of existence.
As a result, Muslims around the world are encouraged to seek this night out with worship throughout the month of Ramadan in the hope of catching its bountiful rewards.
What is done on Laylatul Qadr?
Muslims are encouraged to engage in increased dhikr (remembrance of Allah) on Laylatul Qadr, and the rewards of doing so are great. It’s extremely beneficial to pray voluntary (nafl) prayers on Laylatul Qadr. As deeds are multiplied on this Holy night, praying just two rakat could equal 83 years of Salah!
On this blessed night, turn to Allah (SWT) with sincerity, and make Du’a from your heart. Laylatul Qadr is also a great time to reflect on our sins and errors, turn to Allah (SWT) for forgiveness, while making the intention to improve our conduct and refrain from returning to our sins.
One of the most virtuous acts of reward on Laylatul Qadr is to give Sadaqah to those in need of our help. The Prophet (PBUH) specifically singled out Sadaqah given in Ramadan as the very best charity. (Tirmidhi).
What are the 5 dates of Laylatul Qadr?
Laylatul Qadr takes place on an odd night during the last ten nights of Ramadan:
“Search for the Night of Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan..”
Hadith | Sahih al-Bukhari
Depending on the sighting of the moon, the 5 odd nights of Ramadan 2024 are:
- 31st March (21st night)
- 2nd April (23rd night)
- 4th April (25th night)
- 6th April (27th night)
- 8th April (29th night)
How to pray in Laylatul Qadr?
Muslims are encouraged to follow the beautiful example of the Prophet (peace be upon him) during Laylatul Qadr, and maximise their worship and good deeds.
On this blessed night, turn to Allah (SWT) with sincerity, and make du’a from your heart, As well as making Du’a for yourself, make sure to make du’a for your loved ones, those who are oppressed, mankind and Allah (SWT’s) creatures.
It’s especially important to make du’a for our Muslim brothers and sisters across that world, and that Allah (SWT) grants them ease, patience and fulfils their needs. Find out more about du’as to read on Laylatul Qadr here.
Why is the Night of Power the best night to worship in?
The reward for any righteous act performed on Laylatul Qadr is equivalent to having performed that same deed every day for 83 years, SubhanAllah!