here are no specific prescribed acts of worship for Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Power). This is because the exact date is known only to Allah. However, as it is most commonly believed to occur in the last ten nights, Muslims are encouraged to follow the beautiful example of the Prophet (peace be upon him) during this precious time and maximise their worship:
Aisha (ra) said:
“Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) used to exert himself in devotion during the last ten nights to a greater extent than at any other time.”
Sadaqah: One of the most virtuous acts of reward on Laylatul Qadr is to give Sadaqah to those in need of our help. The Prophet (PBUH) specifically singled out Saqaqah given in Ramadan as the very best charity. (Tirmidhi).
As the rewards of good deeds on Laylatul Qadr are increased multifold, giving Sadaqah on Laylatul Qadr is even more beneficial.
This Laylatul Qadr, remember to help our brothers and sisters in need across the globe, particularly those affected by the Earthquake in Syria and Turkey, as well as those trying to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of the Pakistan floods.
Dhikr (remembrance of Allah): As one of the most blessed nights of the year, Laylatul Qadr is a night of seeking Divine closeness. In order to strengthen our connection to our Lord, it’s important to spend time in reflection and meditation. Spend time contemplating on the glory and beauty of Allah (SWT), as well as on His power, mercy and kindness. Read the 99 names of Allah and take the time to reflect on their meanings and manifestations.
Blessings on the Prophet (peace be upon him): Sending salutations (salawat) upon the Prophet (PBUH) is extremely rewarding and beneficial to us, and we should try to engage in as much salawat as possible during Laylatul Qadr. The Prophet (PBUH) said “Whoever sends Salawat upon me once, will be blessed for it by Allah ten times”- (Sahih Muslim).
This is a manifestation of Allah’s love for our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in which, every salutation by His creation made for the beloved, is honoured. On Laylatul Qadr, in which worship on one night is better than one thousand months, the rewards of Salawat are even greater than this. This is a manifestation of Allah’s love for our Prophet (PBUH), in that we are so highly rewarded for praising him and sending our salutations.
Nafl (voluntary prayers): It’s also extremely rewarding to pray voluntary (naffal) prayers on Laylatul Qadr. Due to the sanctity of this night, your deeds are multiplied. Consequently, praying just two rakat could equal 83 years of Salah! Pray as many naffal as you can. The key is to pray with focus and sincerity, as you imagine yourself before your Lord.
Sincere du’a: On this blessed night, turn to Allah (SWT) with sincerity, and make du’a from your heart, As well as making Du’a for yourself, make sure to make du’a for your loved ones, those who are oppressed, mankind and Allah (SWT’s) creatures.
It’s especially important to make du’a for our Muslim brothers and sisters across that world, and that Allah (SWT) grants them ease, patience and fulfils their needs. Find out more about du’as to read on Laylatul Qadr here.
Many mosques across the globe hold special night gatherings during the last ten days of Ramadan, where worshippers pray night prayers (Qiyam-ul-Layl) in congregation, and make collective du’as.
If you prefer to worship at home, or are unable to attend the mosque, if you can, create a designated space in your home that’s solely used for worship and give it the respect of a mosque. Ensure it is a tranquil space free from noise and other distractions to allow you to focus on individual or collective worship with your family.