The last ten nights of Ramadan are a golden opportunity for believers to seek Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and countless blessings. These nights hold important significance, as one of them contains Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Decree), a night described in the Qur’an as better than a thousand months (Qur’an 97:3). Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would intensify his worship during these nights, urging his companions to do the same.
1. The Revelation of the Qur’an: The Qur’an was revealed during these nights, bringing guidance, light, and wisdom to humanity. (Qur’an 97:1)
2. The Night of Decree (Laylatul Qadr): Among these last 10 nights, one of them is known as the Night of Decree. Worship on this night is equal to 83 years of worship. It is a night filled with peace and blessings until dawn (Qur’an 97:5).
3. The Prophet’s Sunnah: Aisha (RA) reported that the Prophet (PBUH) would exert himself in worship during these nights more than at any other time (Sahih Muslim).
With such a golden opportunity before us, what practical steps can we take to make the most of these sacred nights? Here are five impactful ways:
Charity is one of the most rewarding deeds in Islam, and giving during the last ten nights ensures that you catch Laylatul Qadr. It can be tempting to give only on certain nights, but how will you know which one is Laylatul Qadr? To maximize your rewards, you can automate your giving with Nisa Foundation’s My Ten Nights Program. This automates your donations across these nights, so you never miss out on the blessings.
The Qur’an was revealed in Ramadan, making it the perfect time to reconnect with its message. While it may be satisfying to try and finish the entire Qur’an, it won’t transform your heart unless you understand what you’re reciting. Aim to not only read but also comprehend its meanings and implement its teachings in your daily life.
Take advantage of these nights by attending online lectures, listening to scholars, or reading Islamic books. We live in an era where knowledge is available at our fingertips, leaving us with no excuse for not increasing our understanding. Strengthening your knowledge enhances your faith and brings you closer to Allah.
The Prophet (PBUH) taught us to seek Allah’s forgiveness abundantly, especially during these nights.
Aisha (RA) asked the Prophet what to say if she found Laylatul Qadr, and he recommended the powerful du’a:
Allah’s doors of mercy are always open, so don’t miss out. Pray for everything that your heart desires.
Praying during these nights, especially in Tahajjud and Qiyam-ul-Layl, is a way to connect deeply with Allah. This is also an excellent time to offer extra Sunnah prayers. If possible, dedicate extra time for prayer, recitation, and reflection.
The last ten nights of Ramadan are a rare gift, and we should strive to make the most of them. How fortunate we are to have made it to these nights—many of our friends and family members who were with us last Ramadan are no longer here today.
We are also incredibly fortunate to be in safe homes, surrounded by our families, without the fear of hunger, domestic abuse, or displacement. However, many women and families are not as lucky. Some are struggling with poverty, facing violence in their own homes, or living as refugees with little access to necessities. While we focus on worship, let us also think of them.
Please consider donating to support these women so they can shift their focus from survival to worship, just as we are privileged to do. Your generosity can help provide shelter, food, and safety to those in need.
Even if our efforts seem small, Allah’s mercy is vast, and every moment spent in devotion is valuable. Let’s seize this opportunity, make sincere du’a, and seek Allah’s pleasure so that we may be among those granted eternal success.
May Allah allow us to witness Laylatul Qadr and accept our worship – Ameen!
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