Laylatul Qadr, also referred to as the Night of Power, is one of the most important and sacred nights in the Islamic calendar. This night holds immense significance for Muslims, as it is believed to be the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through Angel Jibreel (Gabriel). The Quran itself describes Laylatul Qadr as being “better than a thousand months” (Surah Al-Qadr 97:3), making it a time of immense spiritual opportunity.
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 Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Search for the Night of Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)
This powerful hadith emphasizes the need for Muslims to seek this blessed night through increased acts of worship, supplication, and devotion to Allah.
The Importance of Laylatul Qadr
Laylatul Qadr is significant because it marks the beginning of the revelation of the Quran, which serves as the ultimate guidance for humanity. This night is described as being better than a thousand months, meaning that acts of worship performed on this night carry the reward of more than 83 years of worship. This tremendous blessing makes Laylatul Qadr a golden opportunity for Muslims to seek forgiveness, supplicate to Allah, and engage in acts of worship that will benefit them in both this life and the Hereafter.
What is Laylatul Qadr?
Laylatul Qadr, also known as the Night of Power, is the most significant night in the Islamic calendar. It is the night when the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This night holds immense blessings and is mentioned explicitly in the Qur’an.
Allah (SWT) states in the Qur’an:
إِنَّا أَنزَلْنَاهُ فِي لَيْلَةِ الْقَدْرِ (1) وَمَا أَدْرَاكَ مَا لَيْلَةُ الْقَدْرِ (2) لَيْلَةُ الْقَدْرِ خَيْرٌ مِّنْ أَلْفِ شَهْرٍ (3) تَنَزَّلُ الْمَلَائِكَةُ وَالرُّوحُ فِيهَا بِإِذْنِ رَبِّهِم مِّن كُلِّ أَمْرٍ (4) سَلَامٌ هِيَ حَتَّىٰ مَطْلَعِ الْفَجْرِ (5)
“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.”
(Qur’an | 97:1-5)
The reward for worship on Laylatul Qadr is greater than that of a thousand months. Thus, this night is highly revered by Muslims worldwide.
When is Laylatul Qadr?
Laylat Al-Qadr falls within the last ten nights of Ramadan, specifically on an odd night. Since the exact night is unknown, Muslims strive to seek it through increased worship during the last ten nights.
When Does Laylatul Qadr 2025 Start?
The five possible nights of Laylat Al-Qadr in 2025 are:
- March 20 (21st night of Ramadan)
- March 22 (23rd night of Ramadan)
- March 24 (25th night of Ramadan)
- March 26 (27th night of Ramadan)
- March 28 (29th night of Ramadan)
Muslims should increase their devotion during these nights to ensure they do not miss the blessings of Laylat Al- Qadr.
Why is Laylatul Qadr Called the Night of Power?
Laylat Al-Qadr is called the Night of Power because of its significance and immense rewards. It was on this night that the revelation of the Qur’an began, signifying a turning point in human history.
Allah (SWT) mentions:
حم (1) وَالْكِتَابِ الْمُبِينِ (2) إِنَّا أَنزَلْنَاهُ فِي لَيْلَةٍ مُّبَارَكَةٍ ۚ إِنَّا كُنَّا مُنذِرِينَ (3) فِيهَا يُفْرَقُ كُلُّ أَمْرٍ حَكِيمٍ (4) أَمْرًا مِّنْ عِندِنَا ۚ إِنَّا كُنَّا مُرْسِلِينَ (5)
“Ha, Meem. By the clear Book, indeed, we sent it down during a blessed night. Indeed, we were to warn [mankind]. On that night every precise matter—every matter [proceeding] from Us. Indeed, we were to send a messenger.”
(Qur’an | 44:1-5)
Signs of Laylatul Qadr
The exact night of Laylatul Qadr is unknown, but certain signs indicate its presence:
- The sun rises without rays:
- The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “On the morning following Laylatul Qadr, the sun rises without any rays, as if it were a brass dish.” (Muslim)
- A pleasant and calm night:
- The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Laylatul Qadr is calm and pleasant, neither hot nor cold; the sun rises on its morning being feeble and red.” (Ibn Khuzaimah)
- A Sense of Peace and Tranquility—Many believers feel a unique serenity and deep connection with Allah on this night, as angels descend in abundance.
- Moderate Weather—It is often described as a night that is neither too hot nor too cold, but rather a calm and pleasant one.
- A Bright Yet Calm Night—Some reports indicate that Laylat al-Qadr is a night where the moon is radiant, and the atmosphere feels peaceful, without strong winds or storms.
- The Sun Appears Soft the Next Morning— A well-known sign is that the sun rises without harsh rays the following morning, appearing soft and slightly dim.
How Long is Laylatul Qadr?
In the Islamic calendar, a new day starts at Maghrib prayer. Therefore, Laylatul Qadr begins at sunset and lasts until Fajr. Worship during this period brings immense rewards.
How is Laylatul Qadr observed?
Muslims engage in increased worship during Laylatul Qadr by:
- Praying additional Nafl (voluntary) prayers.
- Giving Sadaqah (charity) and Zakat.
- Making Du’a and seeking forgiveness.
- Reciting and reflecting on the Qur’an.
- Performing I’tikaf (seclusion in the mosque for worship).
How is Laylatul Qadr Celebrated?
Laylatul Qadr is not a celebratory event. Rather, it is a night of deep reflection, worship, and connection with Allah (SWT). Muslims dedicate themselves to prayers and acts of righteousness.
What is done on Laylatul Qadr?
On this special night, Muslims should:
- Increase in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
- Pray extra voluntary prayers.
- Give in charity generously.
- Make sincere Du’a for themselves and others.
- Repent for past sins and seek forgiveness.
How to Pray on Laylatul Qadr?
Muslims can observe Laylat Al-Qadr by:
- Performing extra voluntary prayers.
- Reciting Surah Al-Qadr and Surah Al-Ikhlas frequently.
- Making heartfelt Du’a for themselves and others.
- Asking Allah (SWT) for forgiveness and guidance.
Why is Laylat Al-Qadr the Best Night to Worship In?
Laylat Al-Qadr offers unmatched rewards. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever prays on Laylat Al-Qadr out of faith and sincerity shall have all their past sins forgiven.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
What are the rewards of Laylatul Qadr?
The rewards of Laylat Al-Qadr are immense:
- Acts of worship on this night are equal to 83 years of worship.
- Allah’s mercy and blessings descend in abundance.
- Sins are forgiven for those who seek repentance sincerely.
How to Maximize Worship on Laylat Al-Qadr
1. Perform I’tikaf (seclusion)
People highly encourage performing additional voluntary prayers (Nafl).Dedicating yourself to worship in isolation allows for deep reflection and connection with Allah. Even at home, setting boundaries and avoiding distractions can help create a spiritual retreat. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of standing in prayer on this night:
“Whoever prays on Laylat Al-Qadr out of faith and sincerity, their previous sins will be forgiven.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari & Muslim)
2. Recite and Reflect on the Quran
Connect with the Qur’an as much as you can. This is the night when the Qur’an was revealed to us, making it the perfect time to recite and listen to its words. Rather than focusing on the quantity of recitation, take your time to understand the verses you are reading. Reflecting on their meaning will allow you to deepen your connection with the Qur’an.”
3. Make Dua (Supplication)
Making du’a on Laylat al-Qadr is one of the most powerful acts of worship. Preparing a du’a list in advance helps ensure you don’t forget anything important. One of the best supplications to make on Laylat Al-Qadr, as taught by the Prophet (ﷺ), is:
اللهم إنك عفو تحب العفو فاعف عني
“O Allah, You are Most Forgiving, and You love to forgive, so forgive me.”
(Tirmidhi)
What Else to Include in Your Du’a List?
Here are some key things you might want to ask Allah for:
- Forgiveness and mercy—that all past sins are erased.
- Steadfastness in faith—to always remain on the straight path.
- Health and well-being—for yourself, family, and the entire ummah.
- Relief from hardships—any struggles, emotional or financial.
- Success in both worlds—in your deen, dunya, and akhirah.
- Righteous spouse and children—if you seek marriage or want barakah in your family.
- Protection from evil and trials—including fitnah and the punishment of the grave.
- Entry into Jannah without reckoning—the ultimate success!
4. Seek Forgiveness
“Laylat Al-Qadr is a night of mercy; therefore, sincere repentance and asking for Allah’s forgiveness can bring immense rewards. Additionally, stand in prayer for at least part of the night. The Prophet (SAW) said, ‘Whoever spends Laylat al-Qadr in prayer, with faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.’ [Nasa’i]”
5. Give in Charity
Donating to charity on Laylat Al-Qadr multiplies the rewards immensely, as every good deed performed on this night is equivalent to doing it for a thousand months.
Conclusion
Laylatul Qadr brings blessings, mercy, and divine forgiveness. It is an opportunity for Muslims to deepen their connection with Allah, seek forgiveness, and increase their good deeds. Since the exact date is unknown, striving in worship during the last ten nights of Ramadan ensures that one does not miss out on the immense rewards of this sacred night. May Allah grant us the ability to witness and benefit from Laylatul Qadr, and may He accept our prayers, fasting, and good deeds. Ameen.