Laylat Ul Qadr (Night of Power) - Meaning & Significance

admin December 14, 2023 Islamic Knowlodege

Laylat ul Qadr, also known as the Night of Power, is one of the Islamic calendar’s most important and sacred nights. With Ramadan upon us, we can find Laylatul Qadr in the last ten nights of Ramadan, where we take the opportunity to earn even more bountiful rewards for our good deeds.

Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him) said:

“Search for the Night of Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan”

Hadith | Sahih al-Bukhari

What is Laylat ul Qadr?

Laylat ul Qadr is one of the most important and sacred nights in the Islamic calendar. It is also referred to as the Night of Power or the Night of Decree.

The month of Ramadan is most widely known as the month that the Qur’an was first revealed to humankind. The Night of Power describes the exact night that the Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

When is Laylat ul Qadr?

Laylat ul-Qadr, or the Night of Power, is believed to occur on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last ten days of Ramadan. While the exact date is unknown, it is often observed on the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th night of Ramadan in the Islamic lunar calendar. Many Muslims focus on increased prayers, reflection, and acts of worship during this special night.

Why is Laylat ul Qadr called the Night of Power?

Laylat ul-Qadr is called the Night of Power because it is believed to be the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad by the angel Gabriel. This event is considered extremely significant in Islam, as it marks the beginning of the revelation that continued over 23 years. The Night of Power is described in the Quran as “better than a thousand months” (Surah Al-Qadr 97:3), emphasizing its profound spiritual importance and the potential for immense blessings and forgiveness during this night. Muslims believe that prayers and good deeds performed on Laylat al-Qadr carry great rewards.

Signs of Laylat ul Qadr

The signs of Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power) are not explicitly detailed in the Quran, but some signs are mentioned in the Hadiths (sayings of Prophet Muhammad). Here are a few commonly cited signs:

A Sense of Peace: Laylat al-Qadr is associated with tranquility and peace.
Moderate Weather: The night is neither too hot nor too cold.
Brightly Lit Night: Some traditions mention that the night is exceptionally bright.
Supplications Answered: It is believed that prayers and supplications made during this night are more likely to be accepted.
Feeling of Spiritual Presence: Many report a heightened sense of spirituality and closeness to God.

Laylat ul Qadr Surah

The specific Surah in the Quran associated with Laylat ul-Qadr is Surah Al-Qadr (Chapter 97). This short Surah consists of five verses and emphasizes the significance of the Night of Power. It describes the night as better than a thousand months and highlights the descent of the angels and the spirit (angel Gabriel) during this blessed night.

Here is the translation of Surah Al-Qadr:

Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Decree.
And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree?
The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.
The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter.
Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.

Muslims often recite and reflect upon Surah Al-Qadr, especially during the last ten nights of Ramadan, seeking the blessings and mercy associated with Laylat ul-Qadr.

How is the Laylat Ul Qadr observed?

Laylat ul-Qadr is observed through heightened spiritual activities during the last ten nights of Ramadan. Muslims engage in extended prayers, recitation of the Quran, and supplication. Many stay awake throughout the night seeking blessings and forgiveness. Acts of charity, reflection, and kindness are also emphasized. The exact night is unknown, but it’s commonly believed to fall on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last ten days of Ramadan, with the 27th night being especially significant.

How is the Night of Power celebrated?

The Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr) is celebrated through intense spiritual activities. Muslims engage in prolonged prayers, recitation of the Quran, and seek forgiveness. Many mosques hold special night prayers, known as Tarawih, during this time. Individuals often spend the night in deep reflection, repentance, and supplication. Acts of charity, generosity, and kindness are also encouraged. While the exact date is uncertain, it is commonly observed during the last ten nights of Ramadan, with the 27th night being particularly significant in many traditions.

Religious Importance of Laylat ul Qadr

The Night of Power marks the single most important event in the Islamic calendar, the revelation of the Qur’an. During 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.

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FAQs

What is Laylat ul-Qadr?
Laylat ul-Qadr, or the Night of Power, is significant in Islam believed to be when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad.
When does Laylat ul-Qadr occur?
It is observed during the last ten nights of Ramadan, with the exact night hidden but commonly thought to fall on one of the odd-numbered nights, especially the 27th night.
How is Laylat ul-Qadr determined?
The exact night is not known, but Islamic tradition suggests signs such as a serene night, a feeling of peace, and an absence of clouds.
What activities take place during Laylat ul-Qadr?
Muslims engage in extended prayers, recitation of the Quran, supplication, and acts of charity. Many stay awake throughout the night in worship.
Why is Laylat ul-Qadr significant?
It holds religious importance as the night when the Quranic revelation began, marking a crucial moment in Islamic history. It is a time of increased spirituality, forgiveness, and seeking divine blessings.
Is Laylat ul-Qadr mentioned in the Quran?
Yes, it is mentioned in Surah Al-Qadr (Chapter 97), describing the night as “better than a thousand months.”
How do Muslims prepare for Laylat ul-Qadr?
Preparation involves increased acts of worship, intensified prayers, reading the Quran, seeking forgiveness, and performing acts of charity in anticipation of the blessed night.
What is the significance of Laylat ul-Qadr in Ramadan?
Laylat ul-Qadr is considered the pinnacle of Ramadan, providing an opportunity for Muslims to draw closer to Allah, seek forgiveness, and earn abundant rewards.
Is Laylat ul-Qadr a public holiday?
While it is not a public holiday, Muslims often take time off from work or school to focus on worship during the last ten nights of Ramadan.