The virtue of Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree) is unmatched among the nights of the year. It is the night in which the Quran began to be revealed, and Allah describes worship in it as better than a thousand months. In this article you will learn what the Night of Decree is, when to look for it, and how to make the most of it.
What Is Laylat al-Qadr?
In Arabic, qadr carries the meanings of honour, measure and decree. Laylat al-Qadr is a night of great worth within the month of Ramadan. Allah says: “Indeed, We sent it down during the Night of Decree. And what will make you know what the Night of Decree is? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months” (Quran 97:1–3).
The Virtue of Laylat al-Qadr in the Quran and Hadith
The Blessing of the Quran’s Revelation
The greatest virtue of this night is that the revelation of the Quran began in it. A book sent for the guidance of humankind came down in a night whose greatness speaks for itself.
Angels Descend and Peace Lasts Until Dawn
The surah continues: “The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn” (97:4–5). It is a night of peace and tranquillity.
Forgiveness of Sins
In the agreed-upon hadith (Bukhari and Muslim) the Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever stands in prayer during Laylat al-Qadr out of faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.”
When Is Laylat al-Qadr?
The Quran does not give its exact date. In Sahih al-Bukhari, the Prophet ﷺ advised seeking it among the odd-numbered nights of the last ten days of Ramadan. For this reason many Muslims value all the nights of this period rather than waiting for one specific night. One wisdom behind its concealment is to encourage worship on every night.
Simple Ways to Revive the Night
- Pray the obligatory prayers on time and the night prayer as far as you are able
- Recite the Quran and reflect on it, even by reading a translation of the verses
- Repent and seek forgiveness
- Make supplication for yourself, your family, your parents and the Muslim community
- Give charity and help those in need
It is reported that Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, asked the Prophet ﷺ what she should say if she met the Night of Decree. He said: “O Allah, You are Forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me” (Tirmidhi). To learn more about supplication, read Etiquette of Dua and Conditions for Its Acceptance.
Practical Tips
- Lighten your schedule before the last ten days begin so that you can rest and work sensibly.
- Set a fixed daily portion for the Quran; the article Etiquette of Reciting the Quran can help.
- Worship together with your family and gradually introduce children to the atmosphere of Ramadan nights.
- Instead of arguing over the exact date, focus on worship and sincerity.
To learn about the Quranic and educational programmes of Sadr al-Islam Complex in Bandar Khamir, visit the Quranic Deputy page, and use Contact Us for questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the exact date of Laylat al-Qadr known?
No. Neither the Quran nor the authentic Sunnah gives an exact date. We are only told to seek it in the last ten nights of Ramadan, especially the odd nights.
What if I cannot stay awake all night?
Worship as much as you are able. Praying Isha and Fajr in congregation, making dua and short remembrances are all valuable. For precise rulings, consult a qualified scholar.
What is the best supplication for this night?
“Allahumma innaka afuwwun tuhibbul-afwa fa’fu anni” is among the recommended supplications, and you may also ask for any good in your own words.
Conclusion
The virtue of Laylat al-Qadr lies in the revelation of the Quran, divine peace, the descent of the angels and the forgiveness of sins. Do not worry about identifying one particular night; revive the last ten nights of Ramadan with faith, repentance, the Quran and supplication, and ask Allah for pardon and mercy.