Laylatul Qadr (ليلة القدر), also known as the Night of Decree or Night of Power, is one of the most sacred nights in Islam. It occurs during the last ten nights of Ramadan, and worship on this night is believed to be better than worship performed over a thousand months. While there is no specific prescribed format for Laylatul Qadr prayer, there are several recommended practices to maximize your worship and spiritual connection. Below is a detailed guide on how to perform Laylatul Qadr prayer and make the most of this blessed night.
Rewards are multiplied and Dua is answered while the (Qadr) of this year is being written! all happening in one night, one peaceful night filled with angels descending with all good! Indeed it’s the biggest loss ever to miss such an opportunity.
let’s discover together the secrets of Laulatul Qadr and how to get the most benefit from it.
Laylatul Qadr, often referred to as the Night of Decree or Power, stands as one of the holiest and most revered nights in Islam. Observed during the auspicious month of Ramadan, it marks the occasion when the Quran, the divine scripture of Islam, was initially bestowed upon Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) by the archangel Gabriel.
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Significance Of Laylatul Qadr Prayer
The significance of Laylatul Qadr transcends mere historical commemoration; it embodies a profound spiritual significance. Muslims believe that during this blessed night, divine mercy descends upon the Earth in abundance, and the gates of forgiveness are wide open.
It is a time when believers fervently seek closeness to Allah through worship, supplication, and reflection, striving to reap the boundless blessings and rewards promised by the Almighty. The Quran describes Laylatul Qadr as “better than a thousand months,” emphasizing its unparalleled spiritual potency and the incomparable blessings it bestows upon those who earnestly seek its virtues.
Traditionally observed on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last ten days of Ramadan, Laylatul Qadr remains veiled in mystery, its exact date concealed within this sacred period. Muslims engage in heightened acts of devotion, including recitation of the Quran, night-long prayers (Qiyam al-Layl), and intense supplication, hoping to catch the essence of this blessed night and partake in its divine blessings.
Allah (Glorified is He) says:
“Indeed, We sent it down on laylatul Qadr. (1)
Surah Al-Qadr
And what do you know of Laylatul Qadr! (2)
Laylatul Qadr is better than a Thousand Months. (3)
The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. (4)
It is all peace until the break of dawn. (5)”
How to perform Laylatul Aadr Prayer?
Performing the Laylatul Qadr prayer is a deeply personal and spiritually enriching experience. While there is no specific prescribed format for this special night, there are several recommended practices that believers can follow to maximize their worship and connection with the divine. Here’s a guide on how to perform the Laylatul Qadr prayer:
1. Stay Vigilant and Worship Throughout the Night
The Night of Power is best spent in worship and devotion from sunset until dawn. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“Whoever stands (in prayer) during Laylatul Qadr with faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari)
How to Stay Vigilant:
- Plan Ahead: Prepare yourself mentally and physically to stay awake the entire night.
- Take Short Naps: If possible, take short naps during the day to conserve energy for the night.
- Engage in Continuous Worship: Fill the night with acts of worship such as prayer, Quran recitation, dua, and dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
2. Engage in Taraweeh Prayers
Taraweeh prayers are special nightly prayers performed during Ramadan. They are an integral part of Laylatul Qadr observance and provide a collective opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation.
How to Perform Taraweeh:
- Attend Congregational Taraweeh: If possible, go to the mosque to perform Taraweeh in congregation.
- Pray at Home: If you cannot attend the mosque, perform Taraweeh at home individually or with family.
- Recite Long Portions of the Quran: During Taraweeh, try to recite longer portions of the Quran to maximize the spiritual benefits.
3. Pray Alone (Tahajjud or Qiyamul Layl)
In addition to congregational prayers, allocate time for personal prayers and reflection. Praying alone allows for intimate communication with Allah and enables you to pour out your heart in supplication and gratitude.
How to Perform Tahajjud/Qiyamul Layl:
- Timing: Perform Tahajjud during the last third of the night, as this is when Allah descends to the lowest heaven and answers supplications.
- Number of Rakats: There is no fixed number of rakats for Tahajjud. You can pray as many as you wish, typically in sets of two rakats.
- Recite Long Surahs: Recite longer Surahs or portions of the Quran during Tahajjud to prolong your worship.
4. Recite and Reflect on the Quran
The Quran was first revealed on Laylatul Qadr, making it a particularly auspicious time for Quranic recitation and reflection.
How to Recite the Quran on Laylatul Qadr:
- Set a Goal: Aim to recite as much of the Quran as possible, whether it’s a few Surahs, a Juz, or the entire Quran.
- Reflect on the Meaning: Take time to ponder the meanings of the verses and how they apply to your life.
- Recite with Tajweed: Recite the Quran with proper pronunciation and melody to enhance your connection with the text.
5. Prolong Your Prostrations (Sujood)
Prolonging your prostrations (Sujood) during prayer is a powerful way to connect with Allah. Sujood is a position of humility and closeness to Allah, and extending it allows for deeper spiritual reflection and supplication.
How to Prolong Sujood:
- Make Heartfelt Dua: Use this time to make sincere dua for yourself, your family, and the Ummah.
- Recite Dhikr: Repeat phrases like “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la” (Glory to my Lord, the Most High) or other dhikr during Sujood.
- Reflect on Your Relationship with Allah: Use this time to seek forgiveness and strengthen your connection with Allah.
6. Repeat Prophetic Duas
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) taught specific duas for Laylatul Qadr that carry profound significance. Repeating these duas can help you seek forgiveness, mercy, and guidance.
Recommended Duas for Laylatul Qadr:
- Dua for Forgiveness:
“Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni.”
(O Allah, You are the Most Forgiving, and You love forgiveness, so forgive me.)
This dua is highly recommended for Laylatul Qadr. - General Dua for Guidance:
“Allahumma inni as’aluka min khayri ma sa’alaka minhu nabiyyuka Muhammadun (ﷺ).”
(O Allah, I ask You for the good that Your Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) asked You for.) - Dua for Mercy and Blessings:
“Allahumma inni as’aluka rizqan tayyiban wa ‘ilman nafi’an wa ‘amalan mutaqabbalan.”
(O Allah, I ask You for wholesome provision, beneficial knowledge, and accepted deeds.)
7. Maintain Spiritual Focus and Presence of Heart
Throughout the night, strive to maintain a state of spiritual mindfulness and presence of heart. Approach your worship with sincerity, humility, and gratitude, seeking to draw closer to Allah and attain His divine pleasure.
How to Maintain Spiritual Focus:
- Avoid Distractions: Minimize distractions such as phones, social media, or unnecessary conversations.
- Reflect on Your Intentions: Remind yourself why you are worshipping and what you hope to achieve.
- Stay Grateful: Thank Allah for the opportunity to worship Him on this blessed night.
What to do on Laylatul Qadr?
There are many things to alternate between in Laylatul Qadr. What you don’t do is sleep or waste time, as every second of that night is precious.
1. Read the Quran
The Quran was first revealed on Laylatul Qadr, making it a particularly auspicious time for Quranic recitation and reflection. Engaging with the Quran on this night brings immense rewards and spiritual benefits.
How to Engage with the Quran:
- Set a Goal: Aim to recite as much of the Quran as possible, whether it’s a few Surahs, a Juz, or the entire Quran.
- Reflect on the Meaning: Take time to ponder the meanings of the verses and how they apply to your life.
- Recite with Tajweed: Recite the Quran with proper pronunciation and melody to enhance your connection with the text.
- Listen to Quran Recitation: If you are unable to recite, listen to beautiful Quran recitations to immerse yourself in its divine words.
Learn how to read the Quran today
2. Pray Qiyam Al-Layl (Night Prayer)
Qiyam Al-Layl, also known as Tahajjud, is a voluntary night prayer that holds special significance on Laylatul Qadr. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“Whoever stands (in prayer) during Laylatul Qadr with faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari)
How to Perform Qiyam Al-Layl:
- Recite Long Surahs: Recite longer Surahs or portions of the Quran during Qiyam Al-Layl to prolong your worship.
- Timing: Perform Qiyam Al-Layl during the last third of the night, as this is when Allah descends to the lowest heaven and answers supplications.
- Number of Rakats: There is no fixed number of rakats. You can pray as many as you wish, typically in sets of two rakats.
3. Make Dua (Supplication)
Dua is one of the most powerful acts of worship on Laylatul Qadr. It is a direct conversation with Allah, where you can ask for forgiveness, guidance, and blessings.
How to Make Dua:
- Use Prophetic Duas: Repeat the duas taught by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), such as:
“Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni.”
(O Allah, You are the Most Forgiving, and You love forgiveness, so forgive me.) - Make Personal Duas: Open your heart to Allah and make dua in your own words for your personal needs, family, and the Ummah.
- Be Polite and Sincere: Approach Allah with humility, gratitude, and sincerity. Ask for His mercy, guidance, and blessings.
Read from Hisn Al-Muslim
4. Engage in Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)
Dhikr is the remembrance of Allah through repetitive phrases and prayers. It is a simple yet powerful way to stay connected to Allah throughout the night.
Recommended Dhikr:
- “SubhanAllah” (Glory to Allah)
- “Alhamdulillah” (Praise be to Allah)
- “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest)
- “La ilaha illallah” (There is no god but Allah)
- “Astaghfirullah” (I seek forgiveness from Allah)
5. Reflect and Repent
Laylatul Qadr is a night of forgiveness and mercy. Use this time to reflect on your actions, seek forgiveness for your sins, and make a sincere commitment to improve yourself.
How to Reflect and Repent:
- Evaluate Your Life: Reflect on your relationship with Allah, your deeds, and your intentions.
- Seek Forgiveness: Make sincere repentance (Tawbah) and ask Allah to forgive your sins.
- Make a Plan: Set goals for self-improvement and strive to become a better Muslim.
6. Keep Your Heart Present
The most important aspect of worship on Laylatul Qadr is the presence of the heart. It requires effort to keep your heart focused and connected to Allah during worship.
How to Keep Your Heart Present:
- Avoid Distractions: Minimize distractions such as phones, social media, or unnecessary conversations.
- Focus on Allah: Remind yourself of Allah’s greatness and your purpose in worshipping Him.
- Be Grateful: Thank Allah for the opportunity to worship Him on this blessed night.
Best dua for laylatul qadr
There is a special dua for laylatul qadr taught by the prophet peace be upon him to Aisha (Radi Allahu Anha) (Riyadul Salihen)
Arabic: اللهم إنك عفو تحب العفو فأعفوا عنا
English: “O Allah, Indeed you are the one who pardons (Forgives), and you love to pardon (Forgive), so pardon (Forgive) us”
This great Dua shows us what to seek and ask for generally in that great night. –Pardoning, Forgiveness, and praising Allah.
When is Laylatul Qadr?
The exact date of laylatul Qadr is unknown but it’s certainly one of the last ten nights of Ramadan.
There are signs mentioned in sunnah of laylatul Qadr and different hadiths that refer to specific nights to be Laylatul Qadr.
This made many scholars say that Laylatul Qadr isn’t fixed, but it moves every year within the last ten nights. Especially the odd nights.
Is laylatul qadr on odd nights?
There are authentic hadiths that specify that Laylatul Qadr is on odd nights like (21,23,25,27,29)
But it’s unknown if Ramadan would be 29 or 30 days, depending on the moon cycle. The (Last Ten nights) may shift one day and with them the odd nights as well.
It’s always better to pay attention to all of the ten nights as this way is guaranteed to get Laylatul Qadr, as well as the added reward of the rest of the nights which are also considered the greatest nights of the year.
What time does laylatul qadr start and end?
Laylatul Qadr starts once Magrib Adthan (sunset) all the way until (Fajr)
(It’s peaceful all until the upcoming of Fajr)
The whole night is peaceful and each night is considered to be the night of the next day not the past. As in The night of the 21 of Ramadan, is the night before it when the Fajr is the Fajr of the 21 of Ramadan, and so on.
Benefits of Laylatul Qadr Prayer
Laylatul Qadr offers unparalleled spiritual benefits, surpassing even a thousand months of worship. Described as “better than a thousand months,” it magnifies the rewards of Quranic recitation and reflection. This night is characterized by peace and tranquility, offering believers opportunities for inner serenity and divine forgiveness. With the gates of Paradise open and the presence of angels, Laylatul Qadr becomes a sacred and transformative experience, fostering profound spiritual connections and blessings from Allah.
Laylatul Qadr Hadith
the mother of believers Aisha narrates that whenever the last ten of Ramadan enter, the prophet peace be upon him would be far more active in worship as he would make his night alive, and wake his wives.
This is in the hope of getting Laylatul Qadr. Its exact timing is unknown but it’s one of these ten nights.
The prophet peace be upon him said: (whoever prays Qiam on Laylat al Qadr with sincere Iman and counting the reward with Allah, His past sins will be forgiven) Sahih Al-Bukhari
Signs of laylatul qadr
There are many signs to indicate Laylatul Qadr. There are signs in the night itself and signs after it passes.
The first sign causes people to be more active during the night and the second sign gives glad tidings to those who did good in it.
The Sign that’s in it is mentioned in the hadith:
-It’s neither hot nor cold
-It’s bright as if it has a full moon
-no meteors are shown in it until morning
The sign that’s after it is (the sun rises bright on that day without rays ) Sahih Muslim
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Conclusion:
Laylatul Qadr is a night of immense blessings and an opportunity to seek Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and guidance. By staying vigilant, engaging in Taraweeh, praying alone, reciting the Quran, prolonging your prostrations, repeating prophetic duas, and maintaining spiritual focus, you can make the most of this sacred night. May Allah (SWT) grant us the ability to worship Him sincerely on Laylatul Qadr and accept our efforts. Ameen.
Engaging in prayers, reciting the Quran, and seeking forgiveness through supplication are essential acts during these blessed nights. The profound significance of Laylatul Qadr stems from the revelation of the Glorious Quran on this auspicious occasion. Therefore, let us prepare diligently for this night, which surpasses a thousand months in value. Embrace the Quran wholeheartedly by learning its recitation, memorizing its verses, and sharing its wisdom with others.
