A Guide to Maximizing This Blessed Night

Laylatul Qadr, also known as the Night of Decree, is the most sacred night in Islam. It falls within the last 10 nights of Ramadan, and worship on this night is better than a thousand months (Surah Al-Qadr 97:3). To fully benefit from this special occasion, here’s a guide on how to pray and seek blessings on Laylatul Qadr.

1. Perform Isha and Taraweeh Prayers

Begin the night by performing Isha prayer in congregation, followed by Taraweeh. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that whoever prays Isha and Fajr in congregation during the last ten nights will have their night counted as spent in worship (Muslim).

2. Pray Tahajjud (Qiyam Al-Layl)

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  • Tahajjud is highly recommended on Laylatul Qadr. Wake up in the last third of the night and offer at least two rak’ahs of voluntary prayer.
  • You can pray as many rak’ahs as you wish, typically in sets of two.
  • Make sincere du’a between your prayers, as it is a time when Allah accepts supplications.

3. Recite the Special Laylatul Qadr Du’a

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Aisha (RA) asked the Prophet (PBUH), “What should I say if I find Laylatul Qadr?” He replied:

اللهم إنك عفو تحب العفو فاعف عني
“Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni.”
(“O Allah, You are Most Forgiving, and You love to forgive, so forgive me.”)

Say this du’a repeatedly throughout the night, as seeking forgiveness is a key part of Laylatul Qadr.

4. Engage in Dhikr & Quran Recitation

  • Recite Surah Al-Qadr (97) and Surah Al-Dukhan (44) to reflect on the significance of this night.
  • Engage in dhikr (remembrance of Allah) by repeatedly saying:
    • SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah)
    • Alhamdulillah (All praise is for Allah)
    • Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
    • La ilaha illa Allah (There is no god but Allah)

5. Make Du’a for Yourself & Others

This is the best night to ask Allah for forgiveness, guidance, health, success, and protection from hardship. Pray for yourself, your family, and the entire Ummah.

Some powerful du’as to make:

  • For forgiveness: “O Allah, forgive all my sins, those I know and those I do not know.”
  • For guidance: “O Allah, guide me to the straight path and strengthen my faith.”
  • For health: “O Allah, grant me good health, long life in Your obedience, and a righteous heart.”

6. Give Charity (Sadaqah)

Even a small act of charity on Laylatul Qadr carries immense rewards. Donate to those in need or support a charitable cause. The Prophet (PBUH) was especially generous during Ramadan, so following his example is highly recommended.

7. Seek Allah’s Mercy Until Fajr

Continue your prayers, dhikr, and Quran recitation until Fajr prayer. The blessings of Laylatul Qadr remain until dawn, so remain engaged in worship as much as possible.

Laylatul Qadr is a once-a-year opportunity to earn massive rewards and forgiveness. Since its exact date is unknown, try to increase your worship in the last 10 nights of Ramadan, especially on the odd nights (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th).

May Allah bless us all with the rewards of Laylatul Qadr and accept our prayers. Ameen.