Traditionally, the final 10 days of Ramadan are dedicated to Laylatul Qadr, often referred to as the Night of Decree or the Night of Power.
It is generally accepted to fall on one of the odd-numbered evenings in the previous 10 days, with the 27th night being the most frequently seen, while the precise night is not known.
According to some academics, it might also occur on the night of the 21st, 23rd, 25th, or 29th. Laylatul Qadr is regarded by Muslims as the holiest night of the year and is when the Quran was revealed. It is strongly advised that prayers be offered on this night. According to the Islamic lunar calendar, the precise date changes every year.
Of the entire month of Ramadan, the last ten days are thought to be the most spiritually significant. Because they have a special place in Islamic tradition, these days are characterized by increased devotion, prayer, and acts of worship. What makes these last 10 days so crucial is broken down here:
Laylatul Qadr, or the Decree Night Significance: Laylatul Qadr, the holiest night in the Islamic calendar, is thought to fall during the final 10 days. According to Surah Al-Qadr (97:3), this night is "better than a thousand months" in the Quran. Muslims believe that prayers said on Laylatul Qadr are particularly effective and that God's kindness and blessings are abundant during this time. When? Although the precise night of Laylatul Qadr is uncertain, it is generally accepted to fall on the 27th night of the previous 10 days, or one of the odd-numbered nights.
Increased Worship
Night Prayers (Taraweeh): While Taraweeh prayers are performed throughout Ramadan, during the last ten days, many Muslims intensify their worship, staying up late for extra prayers and making supplications.
I'tikaf (Spiritual Retreat): Many Muslims engage in I'tikaf during the last ten days. This involves retreating to the mosque for intensified worship, reflection, and prayer. It is a time of solitude where individuals disconnect from worldly distractions to focus entirely on their relationship with God.
3. Recitation of the Quran
Throughout the last ten days, many Muslims strive to complete reciting the entire Quran or increase their reading and reflection on its meanings. This is especially important as Laylatul Qadr is believed to be the night when the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
4. Charity and Good Deeds
Muslims are encouraged to increase acts of charity during the last ten days. The spirit of giving, kindness, and helping those in need is emphasized. Many people give their Zakat al-Fitr (obligatory charity) during this time to help those in need enjoy Eid al-Fitr.
5. Supplications and Prayers
During these final ten days, Muslims make a special effort to engage in Dua (supplication). It is believed that God is more merciful during these days and is more likely to accept sincere prayers.
The last ten days are also a time to reflect on one’s personal growth during Ramadan, seek forgiveness for past mistakes, and pray for one’s self, family, and the broader Muslim community.
6. Preparing for Eid
While the final ten days are deeply spiritual, they also mark the approach of Eid al-Fitr, the celebration that marks the end of Ramadan. People begin to prepare for the holiday by buying clothes, arranging gifts, and preparing food for the festive meals.
Spiritual Focus of the Last Ten Days:
Purification: The final ten days are seen as a time for spiritual purification, where Muslims focus more on their faith, seeking closeness to God and renewing their commitment to righteous living.
Seeking Forgiveness: The last ten days are also a time when Muslims earnestly seek forgiveness for their sins, as it is believed that God’s mercy is abundant during this period.
In summary, the final ten days of Ramadan represent a time of spiritual intensity, reflection, and seeking divine mercy. It's a period for increasing worship, prayer, and good deeds, all leading up to the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.