The air is heavy with whispered prayers, hands rise in earnest supplication, and hearts soften in deep reflection as Muslims worldwide seek out rewards beyond human comprehension on the final nights of Ramadhan, hoping for it to be the night of Lailatul Qadar.
Whether in the solitude of a dimly lit room or among the collective devotion of a mosque congregation, worshippers seek the grace and divine rewards that this blessed night offers.
Below are some meaningful ways to observe and maximise the blessings of Lailatul Qadar during this blessed month.
SPECIAL NIGHT PRAYERS (QIAMULLAIL AND SUNNAT TAHAJJUD)
One of the most essential practices on Lailatul Qadar is engaging in night prayers.
Many Muslims extend their Sunnat Tarawih prayers, performed during Ramadhan nights, and add extra Sunnat Tahajjud prayers in the late hours before dawn.
These prayers offer an opportunity to seek closeness to Allah the Almighty, reflect on one’s faith, and ask for forgiveness.
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said, “Whoever stands in prayer during Lailatul Qadar with faith and expectation of reward, their past sins will be forgiven” (Sahih Bukhari). This powerful hadith underscores the immense spiritual value of prayer on this night.
RECITING AND REFLECTING ON AL-QURAN
Since Lailatul Qadar commemorates the night when the first verses of Al-Quran were revealed, reciting and reflecting on Al-Quran holds special significance.
Many Muslims aim to complete their Ramadhan Al-Quran recitation on this night or focus on Surah Al-Qadr (Chapter 97) and Surah Ad-Dukhan (Chapter 44), both of which highlight its blessings.
Reading with reflection (Tadabbur) – pondering over the meanings of the verses – enhances the experience, making it not just an act of recitation but a transformative spiritual exercise.
MAKING SINCERE DOA (SUPPLICATION)
Lailatul Qadar is an ideal time for personal supplication (doa), as the night is filled with divine mercy and forgiveness. One of the most recommended supplications to recite is:
“Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun, tuhibbul-‘afwa, fa’fu ‘anni” (O Allah, You are Most Forgiving, and You love forgiveness, so forgive me).
This doa was specifically recommended by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) when asked by his wife, Aisha (RA), about what to pray for on Lailatul Qadar.
In addition to this, believers use this night to ask for personal and communal blessings, guidance, and the well-being of loved ones.
ENGAGING IN ZIKIR (REMEMBRANCE OF ALLAH THE ALMIGHTY)
The act of remembering Allah the Almighty (zikir) is another powerful way to engage with Lailatul Qadar. Simple yet profound phrases such as:
• SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah)
• Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah)
• La ilaha illallah (There is no god but Allah)
• Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
Reciting these phrases brings tranquillity to the heart and strengthens one’s connection to the Divine. Many also send blessings upon Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), which is highly meritorious.
SEEKING FORGIVENESS AND REPENTANCE
Lailatul Qadar is a golden opportunity for seeking forgiveness (istighfar). Muslims believe that sincere repentance on this night can wipe away past sins.
This is a time to acknowledge past mistakes, turn back to Allah the Almighty, and make a commitment to improve.
Repeating Astaghfirullah (I seek forgiveness from Allah the Almighty) with sincerity can be life-changing.
ACTS OF CHARITY AND KINDNESS
While prayer and supplication are key aspects of Lailatul Qadar, acts of generosity also hold immense rewards.
Many Muslims choose this night to give charity (sadaqah), sponsor meals for those in need, or support community initiatives.
Since the rewards for good deeds are multiplied, even a small act of kindness can yield enormous spiritual benefits.
OBSERVING I‘TIKAF (SPIRITUAL RETREAT)
Some Muslims choose to spend the last 10 nights of Ramadhan in i‘tikaf, a spiritual retreat in the mosque, dedicating themselves entirely to worship.
While not everyone can observe full i‘tikaf, spending even a few hours in quiet reflection and devotion can help create a deep spiritual connection.
Lailatul Qadar is a night of immense opportunity – an invitation to draw closer to Allah the Almighty through prayer, supplication, and good deeds.
Whether through reciting Al-Quran, seeking forgiveness, or engaging in acts of kindness, every effort made on this night holds immeasurable reward.
By embracing the spiritual practices of Lailatul Qadar, believers can nurture their faith and carry its blessings beyond Ramadhan, into the rest of the year. – Izah Azahari
