The Night of Power, also known as Laylat al-Qadr, falls on the odd-numbered nights of the last ten days of Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. This year, it falls on April 17. It is considered the holiest night of the year, according to Islam. Muslims believe that Angel Jibril (Gabriel) delivered the first verses of the Holy Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad on this night. It is believed to be a time when sins are forgiven and supplications are accepted, and the annual decree of people is revealed to the angels by God.
History of Laylat al-Qadr
Islam is an Abrahamic monotheistic faith, which Muslims believe was revealed to Prophet Muhammad around 1,400 years ago in the Arabian Peninsula. Pre-Islamic Arabia was plagued by many social evils. Gambling and corruption were rampant in society and most girls were killed shortly after birth. Often, women were ill-treated and enslaved people were cruelly punished. Fighting between different Arab tribes was common. Islamic scholars often refer to this period as ‘Al-Jahiliyya,’ which means the ‘Age of Ignorance.’Muhammad, born in around 570 A.D., belonged to the influential Arab tribe called the Quraysh. His birthplace, the city of Mecca, was an important pilgrimage and trade center for the Arabs at that time. He would often meditate in seclusion for days and nights in a cave named Hira. At the age of 40, he was meditating during the month of Ramadan and was said to have been visited by Angel Jibril. Even though Muhammad was unlettered, Muslims believe that the verses of the Qur’an were revealed to him through Divine Inspiration.According to Islamic beliefs, all of this took place during the Night of Power, also known as Laylat al-Qadr. Without a question, the greatest night in the history of Islam is certainly this night. It is the night when Muhammad became the Prophet and Messenger of Allah.Muslims believe that Allah Almighty, the Most Powerful, and the Creator of All Creation delivered His final message to mankind on that night, bringing down guidance and mercy from above the seven heavens, in the form of the Noble Qur’an, the last holy book. That night was known as the Night of Al-Qadr, or the Night of Decree or Destiny.
Laylat al-Qadr timeline
Muhammad is born in Mecca to Abdullah ibn Abd al-Muttalib and Amina bint Wahb.
Muhammad is visited by Angel Gabriel and receives his first revelation from God.
In 615 A.D., Muhammad shifts some of his disciples to Abyssinia to avoid persecution.
Muhammad and his companions emigrate from Mecca to Medina to practice their faith freely.
Laylat al-Qadr FAQs
Who is the author of the Qu’ran?
Muslim believe that the Qur’an is Divine Revelation from God revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
Which chapter of the Qu’ran is named after Laylat al-Qadr?
Al-Qadr, which means ‘The Power,’ is named after Laylat al-Qadr.
What are the different names of Laylat al-Qadr?
Apart from the Night of Power, Laylat al-Qadr is also known by other names such as the Night of Measures, Night of Decree, and Night of Value.
How to Observe Laylat al-Qadr
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Reflect on the significance of the day
Laylat al-Qadr is a call to prayer and introspection. Reflect on the significance of this day and what it means to you while performing good deeds and praying for forgiveness.
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Recite the Quran
Ramadan necessitates reflection, and the holiness of this night is even more amplified. The best way to commemorate this day is to recite the Holy Qur'an, the Word of God.
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Pray for other people
On this day, in addition to praying for our loved ones, we are encouraged to pray for those who are less fortunate and do whatever we can to help, apart from our religious obligations. Laylat al-Qadr offers an excellent opportunity to be generous toward those that are less fortunate than us.
5 Interesting Facts About Laylat Al-Qadr
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Better than 1,000 months
According to Islamic belief, worship during the night of Qadr is better than doing the same for 1,000 months.
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Descent of angels on the earth
On Laylat al-Qadr, innumerable angels are supposed to descend upon the earth.
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Allah's Decree is revealed
Muslims believe that Allah's Decree for people for the coming year is dictated to the angels as they carry out their duties.
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Brings peace and serenity
Many believers insist that observing Laylat al-Qadr, right from sunset until the break of dawn, can instill a sense of peace.
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First verses of the Qu’ran were revealed
On Laylat al-Qadr, the first five verses of the Qu’ran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad.
Why Laylat al-Qadr is Important
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It's a part of Islam's history
Laylat al-Qadr, which occurred way back in 613 A.D., is a significant event in the history of Islam. It was not only a turning point in the life of Prophet Muhammad but also a blessed moment of mercy for billions of his followers.
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It connects Muslims to their Creator
Laylat al-Qadr, which Muslims seek in the last five odd-numbered nights of Ramadan, is a time for Muslims to establish a closer and stronger relationship with God. They hope that whoever sincerely repents on this night will be forgiven and granted Paradise.
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Spreads positive awareness about religion
The celebration of Laylat al-Qadr helps in bringing awareness to the spiritual aspects of the Islamic faith. This in turn enables non-Muslims to view the Muslim community in a good light.
Laylat al-Qadr dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | April 28 | Thursday |
| 2023 | April 17 | Monday |
| 2024 | April 5 | Friday |
| 2025 | April 26 | Saturday |
| 2026 | April 15 | Wednesday |
