ALSO referred to as the ‘Night of Power’, Laylat-Al-Qadr is the most sacred night in the Islamic calendar. It is considered one of the most important nights in the Islamic calendar as Muslims believe it to be the night in Ramadan when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad by Allah through the Angel Jibril.
The exact date for this holy night is not exactly known but it is believed to occur during the last ten nights of Ramadan, specifically on an odd numbered night, such as the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th or 29th night of the Holy month.
Laylat-Al-Qadr 2023: History
According to popular Islamic beliefs, Prophet Muhammad meditated during the month of Ramadan at the age of 40. At that time, that time Angel Jibril visited him and revealed the verses of the holy book, the Quran. Since then, people started believing that Laylat al-Qadr is the night when Muhammad became the Prophet and the messenger of Allah.
Laylat-Al-Qadr 2023: Significance
The Quran refers to Laylat al-Qadr in Surah Al-Qadr (97:1-5), which states:
"In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful Verily! We have sent it (this Quran) down on the Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr). And what will make you know what the Night of Decree is? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. Therein descend the angels and the Ruh (Jibril) by Allah's Permission with all Decrees, Peace! until the appearance of dawn."
This verse highlights the significance and importance of Laylat al-Qadr in the Islamic religion.
Laylat-Al-Qadr 2023: Celebrations
The celebrations of the night of power, Laylat al-Qadr include praying the whole night and remembering the almighty. People spend the holy night by reading devotional books, scriptures and hymns of Allah. They also engage in a spiritual treat known as ‘Itikaf’ in which they spend the last ten days of Ramadan in the mosque by reading the Quran and praying.