There are certain nights in Islamic history that hold unparalleled significance, and among them, Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Decree) is the most important. It is the blessed night during which the Holy Quran was revealed—a divine guidance for humanity that will remain until the Day of Judgment.
The Virtues of Laylatul Qadr in the Quran and Hadith
The Quran and Hadith describe numerous virtues of Laylatul Qadr. It is declared to be "better than a thousand months" (Surah Al-Qadr: 3), meaning that worship performed on this night is more rewarding than 83 years and 4 months of worship. On this night, Allah’s immense mercy descends, angels come down to the earth, and the doors of forgiveness are widely open for the believers.
Laylatul Qadr and Its Revelation in the Quran
Regarding the significance of Laylatul Qadr, Allah states in the Quran:
“Indeed, We sent the Quran down during the Night of Decree.”
(Surah Al-Qadr: 1)
“And what will make you realize what the Night of Decree is? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.”
(Surah Al-Qadr: 2-3)
Another verse states:
“Indeed, We sent it (the Quran) down during a blessed night. Indeed, We are ever warning. On that night, every precise matter is decreed.”
(Surah Ad-Dukhan: 3-4)
These verses illustrate that Laylatul Qadr is not only the night of the Quran’s revelation, but also a night of divine decree, during which the fate of humanity for the coming year is determined.
Laylatul Qadr in Hadith
Several authentic Hadiths highlight the importance of Laylatul Qadr.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever stands in prayer on Laylatul Qadr with faith and seeking reward, his past sins will be forgiven.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 1901; Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 760)
He also advised:
“Seek Laylatul Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 2017; Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 1167)
Aisha (RA) asked the Prophet (peace be upon him):
“O Messenger of Allah, if I witness Laylatul Qadr, what should I supplicate?”
He replied: Recite this dua:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
(Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni)
Meaning: “O Allah, You are Most Forgiving, and You love to forgive, so forgive me.”
(Tirmidhi, Hadith: 3513)
These Hadiths emphasize that Laylatul Qadr is a golden opportunity for seeking forgiveness and divine mercy.
Blessings and Rewards of Laylatul Qadr
Better than a Thousand Months
“The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.”
(Surah Al-Qadr: 3)
A thousand months equal approximately 83 years and 4 months. Worship performed on this single night is more rewarding than an entire lifetime of worship!
A Night of Forgiveness
Those who sincerely worship and seek repentance on this night will have all their past sins forgiven.
The Descent of Angels
“The angels and the Spirit (Jibreel) descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter.”
(Surah Al-Qadr: 4)
On this night, angels descend with blessings, peace, and mercy for believers.
A Night of Peace
“It is peace until the emergence of dawn.”
(Surah Al-Qadr: 5)
Laylatul Qadr is a night full of tranquility and divine blessings until Fajr.
How to Seek Laylatul Qadr?
When is Laylatul Qadr?
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Seek Laylatul Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan.”
(Sahih Bukhari: 2017; Muslim: 1167)
This means that Laylatul Qadr could be on the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th night of Ramadan. However, the 27th night is most commonly observed as Laylatul Qadr.
How to Spend Laylatul Qadr?
To fully benefit from this night, believers should engage in the following acts of worship:
Perform Extra Prayers (Nafl Salah)
Offer Tahajjud (night prayer), as it is the best prayer after the obligatory Salah.
Recite the Quran
Since the Quran was revealed on Laylatul Qadr, it is a great time to recite and reflect on its meaning.
Make Duas and Supplications
The best dua to recite:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
(Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni)
Also, seek Allah’s forgiveness, guidance, and blessings.
Engage in Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)
Recite Astaghfirullah, Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar, and La ilaha illallah frequently.
Repent Sincerely
Ask Allah for forgiveness and make a firm resolution to stay away from sins.
Give Charity
Helping the poor by providing food, clothes, and financial assistance brings immense rewards.
Final Thoughts
Laylatul Qadr is a night of unmatched blessings, the night when the Quran was revealed, the decrees for the coming year are set, and the gates of forgiveness and mercy are wide open.
May we all recognize the significance of this night, engage in worship, and draw closer to Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.
May Allah grant us all the opportunity to witness and benefit from Laylatul Qadr, Ameen!
Author: A. Salam Khan, Director General, Islamic Foundation
FP/MI
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