In Islam, Laylat al-Qadr, or The Night of Power, is considered the most sacred night of the year, believed to carry spiritual rewards greater than a thousand months of worship.
Observed during the holy month of Ramadan, the night holds deep significance for Muslims worldwide, who intensify acts of devotion through fasting, prayer, recitation of the Qur’an, and supplications.
Islamic teachings indicate that Laylat al-Qadr occurs during the last ten nights of Ramadan, with scholars suggesting the highest likelihood on the odd-numbered nights — the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th.
“This is the most important night for Muslims,” said Imam Shariff Hassan, an Islamic scholar in Mombasa, Kenya.
Many believers spend these nights in deep worship, while some observe Itikaf, a spiritual retreat in mosques dedicated entirely to prayer and reflection.
According to Islamic tradition, the night is marked by peace and tranquility, and it is believed that thousands of angels descend to earth. The night commemorates the moment when the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel).
The significance of Laylat al-Qadr is highlighted in Surah Al-Qadr, a chapter of the Qur’an that states: “The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.”
Muslims believe that sincere worship during this night can lead to complete forgiveness of sins, and that destinies for the coming year are decreed.
For the nearly two billion Muslims worldwide, Laylat al-Qadr represents a profound spiritual moment — an opportunity for repentance, renewal of faith, and seeking divine mercy.
