Laylat al-Qadr: When and how is the Night of Power celebrated

The most important and sacred night in the Islamic calendar — Laylat-Al Qadr, also referred to as the Night of Power is observed in the last ten nights of the holy month of Ramadan. Laylat al-Qadr also known as the Night of Decree will fall this year on April 17. According to Islam, Prophet Muhammad came to know Quran on this night.

Muslims believe that Angel Jibril (Gabriel) delivered the first verses of the holy book to Prophet Muhammad on this night. Followers of Islam also believe that during this time all the sins are forgiven and the souls of people are revealed to God.

History of Laylat Al-Qadar

According to Islamic beliefs, Prophet Muhammad was meditating during the month of Ramadan at the age of 40. During that time Angel Jibril visited him and revealed the verses of Quran.

Muslims believe that this happened on the Night of Power also known as Laylat Al-Qadr. They say it was this night when Muhammad became the Prophet and Messenger of Allah.

How Do Muslims Celebrate Laylat Al-Qadar

Laylat Al-Qadar is celebrated with huge devotion to God by Muslims. They pray the whole night and trust that Allah will listen to their prayers and forgive them for all their mistakes. People also read devotional books and scriptures on this holy night. They read the Quran and pray. Muslims dedicate the last ten nights of Ramadan to devotional readings as they believe Laylat al-Qadr could be any of the last ten days of the holy month.

People are especially observant of Ramadan during these last ten days and they even participate in a spiritual retreat called itikaf (also known as i’tikaaf) where they spend all ten days in the mosque reading the Quran and praying.

FAQs

Q1:Who is the author of the Quran?
According to Islamic beliefs, Angel Jibril revealed the verses of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad.

Q2:What are the other names of Laylat Al-Qadr?
Laylat Al-Qadr is also known as the Night of Measures, Night of Decree, and Night of Value.