Introduction
The blessed month of Ramadan is a time of mercy, forgiveness, and freedom from hellfire. Allah, the Most High, has bestowed upon this month special virtues, with the most distinguished being its last ten nights. During these nights, Allah’s mercy descends abundantly, blessings multiply, and within them lies hidden the Night of Decree (Laylatul Qadr) – a night better than a thousand months. What are the virtues of these special ten nights? What are the secrets of Laylatul Qadr? And how can Muslims maximize these blessed times to gain Allah’s pleasure?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the virtues and characteristics of the last ten nights of Ramadan, with special focus on Laylatul Qadr – its signs, how to observe it, and the most important acts of worship that Muslims should prioritize during these blessed nights.
The Virtues of the Last Ten Nights of Ramadan
Multiplication of Deeds and Rewards
The last ten nights of Ramadan are distinguished by the multiplication of rewards and the magnification of worship. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would exert himself tremendously during these nights, as reported by Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her): “When the last ten nights began, the Prophet (peace be upon him) would tighten his waist belt (i.e., work harder), pray all night, and wake his family up to pray.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
This hadith indicates the recommendation to intensify worship during the last ten nights, dedicating them to increased devotion and obedience, and being keen on reviving the nights with prayer, remembrance, and supplication.
I’tikaf (Spiritual Retreat)
Among the virtues of the last ten nights is that they are the time for I’tikaf, a confirmed Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). He would perform I’tikaf during the last ten nights of Ramadan until his death, and his wives continued this practice after him. I’tikaf means staying in the mosque for worship and obedience, cutting off worldly connections to focus on serving the Creator.
Allah says: “And do not have relations with them [your wives] while you are in I’tikaf in the mosques.” (Quran 2:187). I’tikaf is an opportunity for Muslims to disconnect from worldly affairs, devote themselves to worship, engage in self-accountability, and prepare for the day of judgment.
Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Decree)
The greatest distinction of the last ten nights of Ramadan is that they contain Laylatul Qadr, about which Allah says: “The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” (Quran 97:3). This means that worship performed on this night equals worship performed for more than eighty-three years.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged us to seek this night in the last ten nights of Ramadan, saying: “Look for Laylatul Qadr in the last ten nights of Ramadan” (Bukhari and Muslim). He also said: “Seek it in the odd nights of the last ten nights of Ramadan” (Bukhari and Muslim).
Laylatul Qadr: Its Virtues and Characteristics
Definition of Laylatul Qadr
Laylatul Qadr is the night in which the Quran was revealed. Allah says: “Indeed, We sent it down during the Night of Decree.” (Quran 97:1). It was named the Night of Decree due to its tremendous value and honor with Allah, and because on this night, Allah decrees what will happen during the year regarding lifespans, provision, and other matters.
The Virtues of Laylatul Qadr
The virtues of Laylatul Qadr are manifested in several ways:
- It is better than a thousand months: Allah says: “The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” (Quran 97:3). This is an immense virtue, as worship on this night equals worship for more than eighty-three years.
- The angels and the Spirit descend during it: Allah says: “The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter.” (Quran 97:4). The Spirit refers to Angel Gabriel (peace be upon him), and the descent of angels brings mercy and blessings.
- It is peace: Allah says: “Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.” (Quran 97:5). This means it is free from all evil and harm, filled with goodness and blessings.
- Forgiveness of sins: Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever stands in prayer during Laylatul Qadr with faith and expecting reward from Allah, will have all their previous sins forgiven.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
The Timing of Laylatul Qadr
Scholars have differed in determining the exact night of Laylatul Qadr. The strongest opinion is that it moves throughout the last ten nights of Ramadan, with the most likely being the odd nights (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, 29th), and the most probable being the 27th night. However, Muslims should strive during all the last ten nights so they don’t miss it.
Signs of Laylatul Qadr
The Prophetic tradition mentions some signs indicating Laylatul Qadr:
- Moderate weather: Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Laylatul Qadr is a pleasant, moderate night, neither hot nor cold. The sun rises on its morning weak and reddish.” (Reported by Bayhaqi)
- Tranquility and mercy: It is a calm, serene night where the soul feels peace and tranquility.
- Special light: Ubayy ibn Ka’b (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “We were informed that Laylatul Qadr is the 27th night, and its sign is that the sun rises on its morning white without rays.” (Reported by Muslim)
How to Observe Laylatul Qadr and the Last Ten Nights
Night Prayer (Qiyam)
One of the best deeds during the last ten nights is night prayer (Qiyam), based on the Prophet’s saying: “Whoever stands in prayer during Ramadan with faith and expecting reward from Allah, will have all their previous sins forgiven.” (Bukhari and Muslim). It is recommended to prolong the standing, increase the bowing and prostration, and choose the best supplications.
Abundant Supplication
The last ten nights are a tremendous opportunity for abundant supplication, especially on Laylatul Qadr. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us a specific supplication for Laylatul Qadr. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) asked: “O Messenger of Allah, if I know which night is Laylatul Qadr, what should I say during it?” He said: “Say: O Allah, You are Forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me.” (Reported by Tirmidhi)
Quran Recitation
One of the best acts of worship during the last ten nights is reciting the Quran and reflecting on its meanings, as Ramadan is the month of the Quran, and Laylatul Qadr is the night in which the Quran was revealed. Allah says: “The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Quran.” (Quran 2:185)
Charity and Benevolence
Increasing charity and kindness to the poor and needy is highly recommended, as Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was the most generous of people, and he was most generous during Ramadan. (Bukhari and Muslim)
Remembrance of Allah
Increasing the remembrance of Allah through glorification, praise, declaration of His oneness, magnification, and seeking forgiveness is essential. Allah says: “And remember Allah often that you may succeed.” (Quran 62:10)
Avoiding Idle Talk and Disputes
During the last ten nights, one should avoid anything that distracts from worship, such as idle talk, quarrels, and arguments. Allah says: “Hajj is [during] well-known months, so whoever has made Hajj obligatory upon himself therein [by entering the state of ihram], there is [to be for him] no sexual relations and no disobedience and no disputing during Hajj.” (Quran 2:197)
I’tikaf (Spiritual Retreat) in the Last Ten Nights
Definition of I’tikaf
I’tikaf is staying in the mosque for worship and obedience. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to perform I’tikaf during the last ten nights of Ramadan. I’tikaf is a confirmed Sunnah and one of the best ways a servant can draw closer to their Lord.
The Virtues of I’tikaf
The virtues of I’tikaf include:
- Dedication to worship: I’tikaf allows Muslims to dedicate themselves to worship, away from worldly distractions and concerns.
- Seeking Laylatul Qadr: I’tikaf during the last ten nights is a means to attain Laylatul Qadr, which is better than a thousand months.
- Self-discipline: I’tikaf is an opportunity for self-discipline, purification, self-accountability, and getting rid of bad habits.
Etiquettes of I’tikaf
I’tikaf has etiquettes that should be observed:
- Intention: The person performing I’tikaf should intend to do so for the sake of Allah.
- Staying in the mosque: One should not leave the mosque except for necessary needs, such as using the bathroom or performing ablution.
- Engaging in worship: The person in I’tikaf should spend their time in worship, including prayer, Quran recitation, remembrance, and supplication, avoiding useless talk and actions.
- Avoiding unnecessary outings: One should not leave the mosque except for a legitimate necessity.
- Refraining from intimate relations: Allah says: “And do not have relations with them [your wives] while you are in I’tikaf in the mosques.” (Quran 2:187)
Common Mistakes During the Last Ten Nights
Laziness in Worship
A common mistake during the last ten nights is laziness in worship and wasting time on useless matters. Muslims should utilize these blessed days in beneficial ways and strive in obedience and acts of worship.
Staying Up Late for Useless Activities
Many people stay up late engaged in permissible or forbidden activities, such as watching television or browsing the internet, then sleep through Fajr prayer. This is one of Satan’s deceptions, diverting people from good and occupying them with what doesn’t benefit them.
Neglecting Laylatul Qadr
Some people neglect seeking Laylatul Qadr and suffice with observing one or two nights only, such as the 27th night. This is a mistake, as Laylatul Qadr moves throughout the last ten nights, so all ten nights should be observed so as not to miss it.
Preoccupation with Feasts and Visits
Some people are preoccupied during the last ten nights with hosting feasts and family visits, which distracts them from worship and remembrance. It’s preferable to postpone these activities until after the last ten nights or reduce them as much as possible.
The Secrets of Laylatul Qadr
Concealment and Discretion
One of the secrets of Laylatul Qadr is that Allah has concealed it within the last ten nights and hasn’t specified which exact night it is. This serves several significant wisdoms:
- Encouraging Muslims to strive in worship: When Muslims don’t know which night is Laylatul Qadr, they will strive to observe all the last ten nights, thus increasing their good deeds.
- Testing the sincerity of servants in seeking good: The sincere one will strive during all nights, hoping to attain Laylatul Qadr, while the lazy one will neglect some nights.
- Achieving balance in worship: If people knew the exact night of Laylatul Qadr, they would limit their worship to that night alone and neglect the other nights.
Divine Descents
One of the secrets of Laylatul Qadr is that it is a night in which mercies and blessings descend, Allah opens the doors of goodness, answers supplications, and frees people from hellfire.
Decree of Matters and Destinies
One of the secrets of Laylatul Qadr is that it is the night in which Allah decrees what will happen during the year regarding lifespans, provision, and other matters. Allah says: “On that night is made distinct every precise matter.” (Quran 44:4). This means that during this night, Allah decrees and determines all matters for that year.
Preparing for Eid
Spiritual Preparation for Eid
An important aspect of the last ten nights is spiritual preparation for Eid. Eid is an occasion for joy and happiness, but this joy should be for obeying Allah and completing the fast, not merely for the end of fasting and returning to disobedience.
Repentance and Renewing Covenant with Allah
The last ten nights are an opportunity for repentance and seeking forgiveness, and renewing one’s covenant with Allah. Muslims should utilize these nights for this purpose and pledge to Allah to remain steadfast after Ramadan and not return to disobedience.
Giving Zakat al-Fitr
Part of preparing for Eid is giving Zakat al-Fitr, which is obligatory on every Muslim, male or female, young or old, free or slave. It should be given before the Eid prayer and can be given one or two days in advance. The wisdom behind it is to purify the fasting person from idle talk and obscenity and to enrich the poor and needy on the day of Eid so they don’t need to ask for charity.
The Fruits of Observing the Last Ten Nights and Laylatul Qadr
Gaining Allah’s Pleasure
One of the greatest fruits of observing the last ten nights and Laylatul Qadr is gaining Allah’s pleasure, which is the goal of every Muslim. Allah says: “And approval from Allah is greater.” (Quran 9:72)
Forgiveness of Sins
Another fruit of observing the last ten nights and Laylatul Qadr is the forgiveness of sins. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever stands in prayer during Laylatul Qadr with faith and expecting reward from Allah, will have all their previous sins forgiven.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
Increase in Faith and Strengthening Connection with Allah
Observing the last ten nights and Laylatul Qadr increases faith and strengthens one’s connection with Allah. When Muslims increase in worship, remembrance, supplication, and prayers, their faith grows stronger and their connection with their Lord deepens.
Obtaining Great Reward
One of the fruits of observing the last ten nights and Laylatul Qadr is obtaining great reward, as worship on Laylatul Qadr equals worship for more than eighty-three years.
Tips and Guidance for Maximum Benefit from the Last Ten Nights
Advance Planning
Muslims should plan in advance for the last ten nights by arranging their affairs, freeing themselves as much as possible for worship, and preparing a daily program for the acts of worship they will perform.
Preparing Oneself and Family
It’s important to prepare oneself and family for the last ten nights by reminding them of their virtues, encouraging them to seize the opportunity, helping them observe these nights, and providing a suitable atmosphere for that.
Utilizing Every Moment
Muslims should utilize every moment of the last ten nights and not waste their time on useless matters. Time is precious, and the last ten nights are even more precious.
Balance in Worship
It’s important to maintain balance in worship by combining different types of worship, including prayer, Quran recitation, remembrance, supplication, charity, and others, rather than limiting oneself to one type.
Continuity After Ramadan
Muslims should continue in obedience after Ramadan and not make their worship seasonal. Allah says: “And worship your Lord until there comes to you the certainty [death].” (Quran 15:99). This means continue in worshiping your Lord until death comes to you.
Stories and Experiences from the Righteous Predecessors in the Last Ten Nights
The Striving of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would strive tremendously during the last ten nights. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said: “When the last ten nights began, the Prophet (peace be upon him) would tighten his waist belt, pray all night, and wake his family up to pray.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
In another narration: “The Prophet (peace be upon him) would mix sleep and prayer duringthe first twenty nights of Ramadan, but when the last ten nights came, he would roll up his sleeves (i.e., exert himself in worship).” (Reported by Ahmad)
The Striving of the Companions
The companions of the Prophet (may Allah be pleased with them) would strive tremendously during the last ten nights. Nafi’ reported: “Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) would pray throughout the night in Ramadan, and when the last ten nights came, he would tighten his waist belt and stay up all night in worship.” (Reported by Ibn Abi Shaybah)
The Striving of the Righteous Predecessors
The righteous predecessors would strive tremendously during the last ten nights. Malik bin Dinar said: “When the last ten nights of Ramadan came, Hasan al-Basri would stay up all night in worship and gather his family for prayer.” (Mentioned by Abu Nu’aym in Al-Hilyah)
Conclusion
The last ten nights of Ramadan represent an extraordinary opportunity for Muslims to gain Allah’s pleasure and win Paradise. These are numbered days that quickly pass, so they should be utilized in obedience and acts of worship, increasing night prayers, supplications, remembrance, and Quran recitation.
Laylatul Qadr is the greatest night of the year, containing immeasurable goodness and blessings. O Allah, grant us the ability to observe it, accept our good deeds, and make us among those who stand in prayer during Ramadan with faith and expecting reward, and among those who seek Laylatul Qadr with faith and expecting reward, and make us among those freed from the Fire in this blessed month.
May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and all his companions, and all praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds.
FAQ About the Last Ten Nights of Ramadan and Laylatul Qadr
When are the last ten nights of Ramadan?
The last ten nights of Ramadan begin on the 21st night and continue until the end of the month. These nights are considered especially blessed in Islamic tradition.
What is Laylatul Qadr (Night of Decree)?
Laylatul Qadr is the night when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad. It is described in the Quran as “better than a thousand months” (97:3), meaning worship on this night is equivalent to worship for over 83 years.
When exactly is Laylatul Qadr?
While the exact date is not definitively known, Prophet Muhammad advised Muslims to seek it in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, 29th). Many scholars believe the 27th night is most likely, but it’s recommended to seek it throughout all the last ten nights.
What are the signs of Laylatul Qadr?
Some reported signs include: a night that is neither hot nor cold, a peaceful and tranquil night, the sun rising on the following morning without strong rays, appearing pale and red.
What should Muslims do during the last ten nights?
Muslims are encouraged to increase worship through night prayers, Quran recitation, making supplications (especially for forgiveness), giving charity, engaging in dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and performing I’tikaf (spiritual retreat in the mosque).
What is the best dua (supplication) for Laylatul Qadr?
Prophet Muhammad taught Aisha to say: “Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni” (O Allah, You are forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me).
What is I’tikaf?
I’tikaf is a spiritual retreat where a person stays in the mosque devoted to worship, especially during the last ten days of Ramadan. It involves disconnecting from worldly affairs to focus on spiritual development and seeking Laylatul Qadr.
Is it necessary to stay up all night during the last ten nights?
While staying up all night in worship is praiseworthy, it’s not obligatory. Muslims should strive according to their ability, balancing between worship and necessary rest.
Can women observe I’tikaf?
Yes, women can observe I’tikaf, preferably in a designated area within the mosque or at home in a place dedicated for prayer.
How can working Muslims maximize these blessed nights?
Working Muslims can:
Maintain a spiritual mindset throughout the day
Take vacation days if possible
Minimize unnecessary activities
Nap after work to stay up for night prayers
Focus on quality over quantity in worship
Make abundant dua (supplication) during breaks
Recite Quran during commutes or breaks
