Laylat al-Qadr

“Verily, We have sent it (this Quran) down in the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree).” [al-Qadr 97:1]

What is Laylat al-Qadr?

Muslims around the world fast throughout the holy month of Ramadan, but did you know there is an event that occurs in Ramadan which equally holds just as much importance? Laylat al-Qadr, also known as the Night of Power in Islam, is a date that is absolutely vital to note in your calendars. It was on this night that the Holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) through Angel Jibril. Allah (SWT) accepts the prayers of the believers that repent and seek his forgiveness. Allah has allowed this night to overflow with his mercy and blessings until Fajr time the following morning.

What the Quran Says About Laylat al-Qadr

In Surah Ad-Dukhan (Chapter 44, Verse 3), Allah SWT says:

إِنَّا أَنزَلْنَاهُ فِي لَيْلَةٍ مُّبَارَكَةٍ إِنَّا كُنَّا مُنذِرِينَ
Indeed, We sent it [the Qur'an] down during a blessed night. Indeed, We were to warn [mankind]. (44:3)

And in Surah Al-Qadr (Chapter 97, Verses 1-5), Allah SWT also states:

إِنَّا أَنزَلْنَاهُ فِي لَيْلَةِ الْقَدْرِ
Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Decree. (97:1)

وَمَا أَدْرَاكَ مَا لَيْلَةُ الْقَدْرِ
And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? (97:2)

لَيْلَةُ الْقَدْرِ خَيْرٌ مِّنْ أَلْفِ شَهْرٍ
The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. (97:3)

تَنَزَّلُ الْمَلَائِكَةُ وَالرُّوحُ فِيهَا بِإِذْنِ رَبِّهِم مِّن كُلِّ أَمْرٍ
The angels and the Spirit [Jibreel] descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. (97:4)

سَلَامٌ هِيَ حَتَّىٰ مَطْلَعِ الْفَجْرِ
Peace it is until the emergence of dawn. (97:5)

These verses confirm the importance of Laylat al-Qadr, the level of rewards it brings and its timing.

Why is Laylat al-Qadr Important?

The term’s Laylat al-Qadr translation holds deep meanings, including "honour" and "decree." Laylat al-Qadr is the Night of Honour because it is a night of immense devotion when divine decrees for the upcoming year are ordained.

It is also called the Night of Decree, as highlighted in the Quran: “Therein (that night) is decreed every matter of ordainments.” [Surah Al-Dukhan 44:4]

When Does Laylat al-Qadr Start?

The exact date of Laylat al-Qadr is hidden, but it is believed to fall within the last 10 nights of Ramadan. So, this year, it is expected to begin on 20th March and potentially end on 30th March 2025.

The Prophet (SAW) advised: “Seek Laylat al-Qadr in the odd-numbered nights of the last ten nights of Ramadan.” [Bukhari, 4/259]

The fact is, only Allah SWT truly knows when The Night Of Power is. However, many Muslims consider the 27th night of Ramadan as a strong possibility for Laylat al-Qadr. In Laylat al-Qadr 2025, the 27th night is expected to coincide with 26 March, subject to moonsighting.

The best way to catch Laylat al-Qadr is to try your best throughout the last 10 nights of Ramadan. Go in extra hard with your efforts to guarantee success. For instance, as we are aware, charity is multiplied. This means you can set up a standing order with a charity of your choice and donate to them for 10 consecutive days ensuring no room for error.

What Happened on the Night of Laylat al-Qadr?

As mentioned, on this sacred night, the Quran was first revealed. In historic events, this was the beginning of Islamic guidance for humanity. It is a night when angels descend, and peace prevails until dawn. The rewards for worship on this night are multiplied beyond imagination so be sure to follow our guidance below to secure your good deeds.

What to Do on Laylat al-Qadr

On this sacred night, believers are encouraged to engage in acts of worship such as prayers, Quran recitation, and supplications. One of the most important supplications is: “Allahumma innaka afuwwun tuhibb al-afwa fa’fu anni”, which translates to: O Allah, You are forgiving and You love forgiveness, so forgive me [Al-Tirmidhi].

Other virtuous acts include giving charity, performing good deeds, and reflecting on the blessings of Allah (SWT).

Four Key Ways to Earn More Good Deeds on Laylat al-Qadr

1. Increase in worship by performing extra prayers such as Tahajjud and reciting the Quran, a believer can most definitely multiply their rewards. Remember to also stand in prayer with sincerity and devotion which can also bring immense rewards.
2. Seek forgiveness and make dua, remember “Astaghfirullah” is your best friend. Laylat al-Qadr is an opportunity to ask for Allah's (SWT) mercy and forgiveness. Engaging in heartfelt supplication and seeking repentance can wipe away past sins. The beauty of Islam is that even for a menstruating woman, she is able to seek forgiveness from Allah SWT and repent, given the opportunity of her sins being erased too.
3. Give your charity generously by giving Sadaqah on Laylat al-Qadr. You can multiply the rewards manyfold. Supporting those in need through donations to food parcels, orphans, and emergency aid is a highly rewarding act.
4. Help others and perform good deeds. Acts of kindness such as helping the less fortunate, feeding the hungry, and offering assistance to those in need can earn immense rewards. Small deeds, like making a sincere dua for someone else, can also have a lasting impact.

Signs of Laylat al-Qadr

Laylat al-Qadr is described as a night of peace and tranquillity. One interesting fact is that there are evident signs such as the sun rising the next morning without visible rays, symbolising the peacefulness of the night.

Charity on Laylat al-Qadr

The rewards for charity on this night are immense, as highlighted in the Quran: “The Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is better than a thousand months.” [Surah Al-Qadr 97:3] The Prophet (SAW) was exceptionally generous during Ramadan, and believers are encouraged to follow his example by giving Sadaqah, particularly on the nights of Laylat al-Qadr.

Support Charity Meals on the Night of Power This Ramadan. Your donations will help provide hot meals, food parcels, and clean water to those in need, including orphans, widows, and vulnerable communities affected by war and disaster. Give generously on Laylat al-Qadr 2025 and make a lasting impact.