Laylatul Qadr is the holiest night in Islam. This night holds immense spiritual significance, as it is described in the Quran as being
"لَيْلَةُ الْقَدْرِ خَيْرٌ مِنْ أَلْفِ شَهْرٍ"
"The Night of Power is better than a thousand months."
(Quran 97:3)
Here we discuss meaning, significance, and signs of Laylatul Qadr. Also talk about how billions of Muslims around the world observe this night. You will learn why it is better than a thousand months and how you can make the most of this once-a-year opportunity for divine mercy, forgiveness, and guidance from Allah.
What is Laylatul Qadr?
Laylatul Qadr is the most special night in the Islamic calendar. In the Quran, it is mentioned that the Quran was first revealed on this night. Allah (SWT) says,
"إِنَّا أَنْزَلْنَاهُ فِي لَيْلَةِ الْقَدْرِ"
“Indeed, We sent the Qur'an down during the Night of Decree (Qadr).”
(Quran 97:1)
It is also mentioned in the Quran that:
"شَهۡرُ رَمَضَانَ ٱلَّذِيٓ أُنزِلَ فِيهِ ٱلۡقُرۡءَانُ هُدٗى لِّلنَّاسِ وَبَيِّنَٰتٖ مِّنَ ٱلۡهُدَىٰ وَٱلۡفُرۡقَانِۚ"
"The month of Ramadhan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. ”
(Quran 2:185)
So, Laylatul Qadr is observed as the night when the Quran was first revealed by Allah (SWT) to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through angel Jibril (Gabriel). This holy book is considered as the Muslim's greatest guidance directly from Allah. These make this night as important as it is.
A common question people ask is Laylatul Qadr on odd nights. The exact date of Laylatul Qadr is unknown. However, it is mentioned in the Quran and hadith that it falls on odd night during the last 10 days of Ramadan, typically in the final stretch of the month.
Qadr meaning
Qadr means measure, limit, or destiny in Arabic. In Islamic belief, it refers to Allah's divine decree. It shows how Allah (SWT) plans everything perfectly including life, death, and everything else.
Why is Laylatul Qadr called the Night of Destiny? Night of Power?
The night is called Laylatul Qadr because it shows Allah's high status. Many sins are forgiven on this night. Moreover, Allah’s plans for the next year are shared with the angels on this night. As Allah (SWT) determines the annual destiny of every person, it is also called the night of destiny.
All of this reflects Allah's immense power—His ability to plan everything and forgive. This is why it is also known as the Night of Power.
When is Laylat ul Qadr observed?
Laylatul Qadr, or the Night of Power, is observed during the last 10 nights of Ramadan. However, the exact date is unknown. It's believed to be on an odd-numbered night. Aisha (RA) narrated that Allah's Messenger (PBUH) said,
"Search for the Night of Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan."
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 32, Number 234)
What are the nights of destiny?
The Night of Destiny, or Laylat al Qadr, is one of the most sacred nights in Ramadan. It is mostly found on the odd nights of the last ten days. These include the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th nights. There are many hadith that clarify these dates to search for Laylat al Qadr. Some are mentioned as follows,
Narrated by Ibn Abbas (RA), the Prophet (PBUH) said,
"Look for the Night of Qadr in the last ten nights of Ramadan,' on the night when nine or seven or five nights remain out of the last ten nights of Ramadan (i.e. 21, 23, 25, respectively)."
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 32, Number 238)
Ubada bin As-Samit (RA) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) came out to let us know about the Night of Qadr but two Muslims were quarreling with each other. So, the Prophet (SAW) said,
"I came out to inform you about the Night of Qadr, but such-and-such persons were quarreling, so the news about it had been taken away, yet that might be for your own good, so search for it on the 29th, 27th, and 25th (of Ramadan).”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 32, Number 240)
Sunni Muslims often focus on the 27th night as a strong possibility for Laylatul Qadr Night. Shia Muslims give more importance to the 19th, 21st, and 23rd nights. Regardless of the specific date, each odd night is a chance to seek blessings and connect deeply with faith.
When does the night of al Qadr start?
The Night of Power, or Laylatul Qadr, starts at sunset. As mentioned before, It is believed to fall within the last ten nights of Ramadan. Accordingly, Muslims begin their activities at sunset in search of the Night of Qadr on these days.
How long is the night of al Qadr?
The night of Al Qadr lasts a whole night, from sunset to sunrise. Muslims offer prayers on the expected days to have the blessing of the holiest night. Aisha (RA) narrated,
“With the start of the last ten days of Ramadan, the Prophet (PBUH) used to tighten his waist belt (i.e. work hard) and used to pray all night, and used to keep his family awake for the prayers.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 32, Number 241)
When is Laylat ul Qadr 2025?
Laylat ul Qadr also called the Night of Destiny, is expected on March 26 or 27, 2025. The exact date depends on the Ramadan moon sighting. Muslims seek this special night on the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan, mainly focusing on the 27th night.
Significance of Laylat ul Qadr in Islam
Laylat al Qadr holds immense significance as it offers an opportunity to seek forgiveness, increase rewards, and strengthen the bond with Allah.
Better Than a Thousand Months
Allah (SWT) declares in Surah Al-Qadr that the Night of Destiny is better than a thousand months (97:3). Worshiping on this night equals 83 years and 4 months of worship. Sincere prayer and deeds on Laylatul Qadr night bring unmatched rewards.
The Revelation of the Quran
Allah (SWT) revealed the Quran on this night as a guide for humanity (Surah Al-Qadr 97:1, Surah Ad-Dukhan 44:3). It descended from the Preserved Tablet to the Lowest Heaven and then gradually descended to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Unknown Date for Wisdom
The exact date is unknown but falls in Ramadan’s odd nights, as stated by the Prophet (PBUH) (Sahih Al-Bukhari). This encourages Muslims to remain consistent in worship throughout the last ten nights.
Angels Bring Peace
Surah Al-Qadr (97:4-5) mentions angels descending with Allah’s permission for every decreed matter. Supplications are accepted, and sins are forgiven. And it’s peaceful until dawn breaks.
Mention of Laylatul Qadr in Quran
Laylatul Qadr is mentioned in the Quran in Surah 97, also known as Al-Qadr. The Surah describes Laylatul Qadr as the "Night of Power" or "Night of Decree". It also states that the Quran was revealed on this night.
Verses from Surah 97 Al-Qadr and their short details
97:1: "Indeed, We sent the Qur'an down during the Night of Decree." - This verse directly states that the Quran was revealed on Laylat al-Qadr.
97:2 - 97:3: "And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months." - This emphasizes the exceptional value of this night, signifying its importance for worship and seeking forgiveness.
97:4: "The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter." - This verse describes the descent of angels, led by the Angel Gabriel, on Laylat al-Qadr, carrying out divine decrees.
97:5: "Peace it is until the emergence of dawn." - This verse highlights the tranquility and serenity associated with Laylat al-Qadr.
Signs of Laylatul Qadr
The Night of Destiny, the blessed night in Ramadan, has many signs to help us recognize it.
Signs of Laylatul Qadr night:
- The night is calm and peaceful.
- The moon shines bright.
- The weather is neither hot nor cold.
- The sun rises red and weak in the morning. (Source: Ibn Khuzaimah)
- There's a possibility of rain on this night (Al-Bukhari, 813).
Signs After Laylatul Qadr
- The sunrise appears white and has no strong rays.
How is the night of power celebrated by Muslims?
Some celebrate the Night of Power by gathering in mosques to worship and ask Allah (SWT) for forgiveness. This involves spending the night in ardent prayer, reciting the Quran, making supplications (dua), and performing charitable deeds. Others do these activities at home. So, Muslims mainly seek blessings and forgiveness on this special night with various activities.
Rewards of worship on the night of Laylat ul Qadr
The rewards of worship on the night of Laylat ul Qadr are beyond measure. The Prophet (PBUH) said,
“And whoever stood for the prayers in the night of Qadr out of sincere Faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven .”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 32, Number 231)
Allah (SWT) has made this night better than a thousand months. Worship on this single night can bring more reward than 83 years of worship. It is a chance to seek forgiveness, pray for blessings, and strengthen faith. Often mentioned rewards in the Quran and Hadith are:
Forgiveness of sins: Sincere Laylatul Qadr prayer can erase past mistakes.
Dua acceptance: Prayers made with a pure heart will be answered.
Spiritual renewal: Worship purifies the soul and brings peace.
Angelic presence: Angels descend, making the night special.
Protection from Hellfire: Sincere worship on this night brings Allah’s mercy.
What to do on Laylat ul Qadr?
The most common things to do on the Night of Power are:
Prayer: Muslims pray extra at night. They perform Tahajjud, and nafl, and seek mercy. Some pray at home. Others gather in mosques. There is no set way to observe it. The goal is to seek closeness to Allah.
Quran recitation: Many spend the night reading and reflecting on the Quran.
Laylatul Qadr dua: People make heartfelt prayers for themselves and others.
I'tikaf: Some stay in the mosque for ten days, focusing on worship.
Charity: Giving Zakat (obligatory charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity) earns extra rewards.
Special Laylatul Qadr dua
Aisha (RA) asked the Prophet (PBUH) what to say if she found Laylatul Qadr. He taught her this dua:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ العَفْوَ فَأَعْفُ عَنِّي
Allaahumma innaka ‘afuwwun, tuhibb al-‘afwa, fa’fu ‘anni
"O Allah, You are Most Forgiving, and You love to Forgive, so forgive me."
(Sunan Ibn Majah, Volume 5, Book 34, Hadith 3850)
Recite this powerful supplication as much as possible as it is advised by the messenger of Allah (PBUH).
Laylatul Qadr prayers
There are no specific prayers for Laylatul Qadr. You may pray asking for forgiveness as mentioned before, also asking for good in this life and the next, and praying for the whole Muslim community.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you understand the definition and importance of Laylatul Qadr in Islam. Use this knowledge to make the most of this powerful night.