What is Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Power)?
Quick Answer
Laylat al-Qadr is a night in the last ten days of Ramadan, better than a thousand months, when the Quran was first revealed. Worship on this night carries the reward of worship for over 83 years.
Detailed Answer
Allah dedicated an entire surah to this night (Surah Al-Qadr, 97): 'Indeed, We sent it down on the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.'
When is it? The Prophet ﷺ said to seek it in the odd nights of the last ten of Ramadan — the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th (Sahih Bukhari 2017). The 27th night is most commonly mentioned, but the exact night is hidden so Muslims strive throughout the last ten.
Virtues: - Worship better than 1000 months (~83 years). - The Quran began descending on this night. - Angels and Jibreel descend with peace until Fajr. - All affairs for the coming year are decreed.
What to do: - Pray Tahajjud and extra nafl prayers. - Recite Quran abundantly. - The recommended dua (taught by the Prophet ﷺ to Aisha): 'Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni' — 'O Allah, You are Most Forgiving, You love forgiveness, so forgive me' (Sunan Ibn Majah 3850). - I'tikaf in the masjid (seclusion for worship) is highly recommended.
Sources
- Quran 97 (Surah Al-Qadr)
- Sahih Bukhari 2017
- Sunan Ibn Majah 3850
Disclaimer: This answer is educational guidance based on authentic sources. For binding rulings on personal matters, please consult a qualified Islamic scholar.