Laylatul Qadr: The Night of Power in Ramadan

Learn all about Laylatul Qadr, also known as the Night of Power in Islam, and discover why it holds such a valued place in the Islamic faith.

What is Laylatul Qadr?

Laylatul Qadr is considered one of the most sacred nights for Muslims, as it observes the night in which the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The term Laylatul Qadr translates to the “Night of Power,” signifying its immense spiritual significance.

Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power, falls on one of the last ten nights of Ramadan, encouraging Muslims to maximise worship and good deeds during the final nights of the holy month.

Laylatul Qadr is known to bring blessings worth more than a thousand months.

Allah mentions in the Quran:

“Verily! We have sent it (this Quran) down in the night of Al-Qadr (Decree). And what will make you know what the night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is? The night of Power is better than a thousand months (i.e. worshipping Allah in that night is better than worshipping Him a thousand months. Therein come down the Angels and the Spirit by Allah’s Permission with all Decrees. Peace! (All that night, there is Peace and Goodness from Allah to His believing slaves) until the appearance of dawn.” [Quran 97: 1-5]

When is Laylatul Qadr 2026?

The exact date of Laylatul Qadr is never known – just that it will be one of the last ten nights of Ramadan. It is held that the Night of Power was one of the odd-numbered nights, and the 27th night of Ramadan is commonly believed to the night of Laylatul Qadr. With that in mind, Laylatul Qadr 2026 is expected to begin from the evening of Monday 16th March, which will be the evening of the 27th of Ramadan.

Some signs that may indicate Laylatul Qadr has occurred would include a peaceful and tranquil night, the possibility of light rain, and a soft, rayless sun the next morning.

Dua for Laylatul Qadr

One of the key practices on Laylatul Qadr is making heartfelt dua, asking Allah (SWT) for blessings, forgiveness and guidance. Aisha (RA) reported that she asked the Messenger of Allah (PBUH), “O Messenger of Allah, if I know which night of Decree, what should I say during it?” The Messenger of Allah replied: “Say: Allahumma innaka afuwwun tuhibbul afwa fafu annee”, (“O Allah, You are the Most Forgiving, and You love to forgive, so forgive me.”) [Tirmidhi]. This dua for Laylatul Qadr embodies the spirit of seeking forgiveness and mercy from Allah (SWT).

What to do on Laylatul Qadr

Since Laylatul Qadr brings rewards equivalent to a lifetime of worship, it’s a powerful time to engage in acts of devotion and charity. Here are ways to make the most of this night and the last ten days:

• Increase Dhikr and Quran Recitation: Deepen your connection with Allah (SWT) through the remembrance of Him and by reading the Quran.
• Perform Additional Prayers: In addition to obligatory prayers, offer voluntary (Nafl) prayers to seek closeness to Allah.
• Make Specific Duas: Recite the dua for Laylatul Qadr as well as other supplications. Pray for forgiveness, for your needs, your loved ones, and for the well-being of the ummah.
• Seek Knowledge: Take time to learn about Laylatul Qadr, its significance, and other aspects of Islam. Gaining knowledge is a form of worship in itself.
• Observe Itikaf: Spend the last ten nights of Ramadan in seclusion, focusing solely on worship and self-reflection.
• Donate to Charity: Giving charity during Laylatul Qadr multiplies the reward. As the Prophet (PBUH) said, “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” [Tirmidhi].

The Importance of Charity on Laylatul Qadr

The last ten nights of Ramadan offer a beautiful opportunity for giving. Contributing to charity, especially on Laylatul Qadr, is a way to seek immense reward and to support those in need. As Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advised, “Do not show lethargy or negligence in giving alms and charity till your last breath” [Bukhari and Muslim].

Consider supporting charitable causes this Ramadan, especially helping orphans, widows, and impoverished communities. If you’re wondering what to do on Laylatul Qadr, remember that every good deed you do on the Night of Power carries the blessing of a thousand months. A charitable donation will bring immense good to the world now and spiritual rewards in the future.

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