The Signs of Laylatul Qadr: Seeking the Most Blessed Night

Laylatul Qadr

Laylatul Qadr—the Night of Decree—is the most sacred night of the year, a night described in the Qur’an as “better than a thousand months” (Surah Al-Qadr 97:3). It is on this night that the Qur’an was revealed, and Allah’s mercy and blessings descend upon the earth in abundance. As we seek to make the most of these final nights of Ramadan, recognising the signs of Laylatul Qadr can help us maximise our worship and dua.

Recognising Laylatul Qadr

While the exact date of Laylatul Qadr remains unknown, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) encouraged us to seek it in the last ten nights of Ramadan, particularly in the odd nights (Bukhari & Muslim). However, Allah, in His wisdom, has concealed its precise occurrence so that believers strive harder in worship throughout these nights.

Some authentic narrations and scholarly sources suggest distinct signs that mark this blessed night:

A Calm and Serene Night – Laylatul Qadr is described as a peaceful, tranquil night, free from extreme heat or cold. The atmosphere feels spiritually uplifting, and the heart is at ease.
A Unique Glow in the Sky – Some hadith mention that the moon on Laylatul Qadr appears like a half-plate (Muslim), and the night may have a special radiance, even without visible moonlight.
The Absence of Harsh Weather – The night is neither too hot nor too cold, and the winds are gentle, creating a soothing and peaceful environment.
The Sun Rises Soft and Without Harsh Rays – One of the most recognised signs is that the sun rises the next morning without strong rays, appearing somewhat hazy or feeble. (Muslim)
A Deep Sense of Inner Peace – Those who are engaged in worship on Laylatul Qadr often describe an overwhelming sense of peace, contentment, and closeness to Allah.

How to Make the Most of Laylatul Qadr

Since we do not know the exact night, we should strive to increase our worship, dua, and seeking forgiveness throughout the last ten nights. Here are some key ways to make the most of Laylatul Qadr:

Pray Qiyam-ul-Layl (Tahajjud) – The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Whoever prays on Laylatul Qadr out of faith and in hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
Recite and Reflect on the Qur’an – Since this is the night of its revelation, engage deeply with the Qur’an, pondering its meaning.
Make Intense Dua – Aisha (RA) reported that she asked the Prophet (ﷺ), “O Messenger of Allah, if I know which night is Laylatul Qadr, what should I say in it?” He replied, “Say: Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni” (O Allah, You are Most Forgiving, and You love to forgive, so forgive me) (Tirmidhi).
Give in Charity – The rewards of charity given on this night are multiplied immensely. Supporting causes like feeding the needy, providing Islamic education, or contributing towards relief efforts can have lasting impact.

A Night of Unmatched Reward

Laylatul Qadr is an opportunity unlike any other—it is a chance to have our sins forgiven, our duas accepted, and our destiny written for the better. Whether through prayer, Qur’an recitation, or sincere dua, every act of worship on this night holds the weight of over 83 years of worship.

May Allah bless us with the ability to witness and make the most of Laylatul Qadr, and may He grant us His mercy and forgiveness. Ameen.