MUSCAT: Laylat al Qadr, one of the nights of Ramadhan, occurs during the last ten days of the blessed month considered by Muslims as one of the most favoured and blessed nights.
Khalid bin Aaish al Hashmi, educational supervisor at Al Kamil W'al Wafi Quranic Centre, said the night is of great significance and high status, wherein rewards multiply, and angels crowd. "It is the night when the Quranic lights descended, and Allah Almighty singled it out with immense reward, forgiveness of sins, and transgressions." The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "Whoever stands (in prayer) on Laylat al Qadr out of faith and expectation (of reward), will be forgiven his previous sins."
Regarding the signs of the night, Al Hashmi added, "Our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) informed us that it is in the last ten days of Ramadhan staring from the 21st night of Ramadhan with signs of tranquillity, peace and security, as mentioned in the Quran (Peace it is until the emergence of dawn). In it, souls are purified, spirits are lightened, and Muslim men and women are immersed in tranquillity, purity, and yearning for goodness and reward."
As Muslims observe this night on odd-numbered nights such as the 21st, 25th, or 27th of the blessed month which consists of 30 days, Al Hashmi said, "It is by the guidance of the Prophet (PBUH), and search for it in the odd nights. This Hadith indicates that it is an odd-numbered night, prompting increased diligence in worship. Likewise, on the 27th," he said.
Regarding the religious significance of Laylat al Qadr in Islam, Al Hashmi explained, saying, "Allah has magnified this night in the Quran and singled it out with a Surah named 'Al Qadr,' indicating its status and importance."
He added, "Our Prophet (peace be upon him) used to engage in Itikaf during the last ten days eagerly anticipating Laylat al Qadr. He would wake his family and exert efforts in worship throughout the night. Some righteous predecessors among the Companions used to stand the entire night in prayer and Quranic recitation. All of this demonstrates the importance and status of this night in our religion."
The Quranic verses about Laylat al Qadr states: "Indeed, We sent the Quran down during the Laylat al Qadr. And what is Laylat al Qadr? Laylat al Qadr is better than a thousand months," (Al Qadr: 1-3).
Al Hashmi further emphasised the particular importance of this night in Islamic history, stating, "It is evident that our Prophet (PBUH) emphasised the importance of this night. The Commander of the Faithful, Omar ibn Al Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him), would gather people for the nights of Ramadhan, urging them to prolong their prayers. This tradition continued among Muslims in the holy lands of Mecca, Medina, and Al Aqsa Mosque. Rulers and leaders took care of it, and Muslims would complete the recitation of the Quran seeking its virtue and blessing."
Concerning the righteous deeds that are preferred to be performed on Laylat al Qadr, Al Hashmi mentioned, "Performing Taraweeh prayer is among the best acts of worship on the Laylat al Qadr due to its length and beautiful recitation. Additionally, reciting the Quran, giving charity to the poor and needy, visiting parents and relatives, observing Itikaf in mosques, increasing supplications, and persistently making dua (supplication) is highly recommended, as prayers are answered during Laylat al Qadr."
Over the past five days, mosques have witnessed people's eagerness to attend Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers, which take place around midnight. Worshippers are earnestly praying for Muslims and the oppressed around the world, beseeching Allah for their victory and sustenance.
Al Hashmi added, "Mosques are filled with those engaged in Itikaf, reviving this noble tradition and prophetic practice."
He mentioned that "non-Muslims can also understand the importance of Laylat al Qadr by participating in Muslim rituals, such as attending iftar and suhoor gatherings, praying in mosque courtyards, and listening to the beautiful prayers and Quranic recitations. Their souls are uplifted, and their spirits draw closer to Allah. Perhaps Allah will guide them, for our religion is a religion of tolerance, coexistence, affection and tranquillity."
Al Hashmi also urged people to spend the night in worship, supplication, seeking sustenance, and seeking forgiveness. It is a night that offers the opportunity for repentance, seeking forgiveness, and striving for positive change.
Laylat al Qadr is considered an opportunity for contemplation and reflection on the greatness of the Creator and His favour, as well as the blessings of Islam and its noble values.
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