The blessed month of Ramadan is the holiest time of the year for Muslims around the world. And within this sacred month, the last ten nights hold the greatest spiritual significance—especially because of the hidden gem known as Laylatul Qadr, or the Night of Power.
What is Laylatul Qadr?
Allah mentions in the Holy Qur’an:
“Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what the Night of Decree is? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.”
(Surah Al-Qadr, verses 1-3)
This night is so blessed that worship performed on it is better than that of a thousand months—a lifetime's worth of reward in a single night.
When is Laylatul Qadr?
The exact date of Laylatul Qadr has not been revealed. This is by divine wisdom, to encourage believers to worship diligently throughout the last ten nights. However, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has guided us with some signs and instructions.
According to a hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari (Hadith: 2017):
“Seek Laylatul Qadr in the odd-numbered nights of the last ten nights of Ramadan.”
In another narration, Ubadah ibn as-Samit (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) came out to inform the companions about the exact night of Laylatul Qadr, but two people were arguing, and as a result, that knowledge was lifted. The Prophet then said:
“Perhaps this is better for you. So, seek it on the 25th, 27th, and 29th nights.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 49)
Which Night is Most Likely?
While Laylatul Qadr can fall on any of the last ten nights—especially the odd-numbered nights—many scholars suggest that the 27th night is the most likely based on various hadith and scholarly interpretations.
The Permanent Committee for Islamic Research and Ifta in Saudi Arabia (Fatawa al-Lajnah al-Da’imah, 10/413) also supports this viewpoint, though it emphasizes that all odd nights should be taken seriously.
Wisdom Behind Keeping the Date Hidden
The renowned hadith scholar Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani (RA) explained:
“Scholars say the wisdom behind hiding the exact date of Laylatul Qadr is so that people strive in worship throughout the last ten nights. If the date were known, people would limit their devotion to just one night.”
(Fathul Bari: 4/266)
In Bangladesh, the 27th night of Ramadan is popularly observed as Laylatul Qadr. However, it is crucial not to restrict worship to only this night.
How Should We Spend the Last Ten Nights?
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) would intensify his worship during the final ten nights. As narrated by Aisha (RA):
“When the last ten nights (of Ramadan) would begin, the Prophet (SAW) would tighten his waist belt (stay away from worldly pleasures), stay up the night in worship, and wake his family to do the same.”
(Sahih Bukhari: 2024; Sahih Muslim: 1174)
Therefore, Muslims are encouraged to:
- Increase voluntary prayers (Nafl Salah)
- Engage in dhikr (remembrance of Allah)
- Recite Qur’an
- Make dua (supplication)
- Seek forgiveness and reflect spiritually
Final Thoughts
Rather than trying to pinpoint the exact night, it is wiser to dedicate oneself to worship throughout the last ten nights—especially the odd-numbered nights. By doing so, one increases the chances of attaining the immense reward of Laylatul Qadr.
May Allah grant us all the opportunity to witness this blessed night and accept our worship. Ameen.
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