Ramadan is highly significant in the Muslim calendar, but the 27th night is special for Muslims worldwide.
It’s a time of immense spiritual importance known as Laylat al-Qadr or the Night of Power.
Muslims eagerly anticipate this night, believing it to be the most powerful time for prayers, the best time to ask Allah for forgiveness, and the best time to multiply the reward of good deeds.
The Quran specifically mentions this night in Surah Al-Qadr:
“Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” [97:1-3]
This verse highlights the extraordinary value of Laylat al-Qadr, comparing it favourably to a thousand months of worship.
The Significance of the 27th Night
While the exact date of Laylat al-Qadr is not definitively known, many scholars believe it falls on the 27th night of Ramadan.
This belief is based on various Hadiths (sayings of Prophet Muhammad).
Muslims are encouraged to seek this night during the last ten odd nights of Ramadan, such as the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th.
The 27th night of Ramadan is widely considered to be Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Power) for several reasons:
- Hadith Evidence: A Sahih al Bukhari (authentic) narration from Ubay ibn Ka’ab in Sahih Muslim suggests that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) indicated the 27th night. Mu’awiyah bin Abi Sufyan narrates a relevant hadith by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):
“Seek Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Decree) on the 27th night.” - Scholarly Consensus: Many Islamic scholars consider the 27th night the most likely date for Laylatul Qadr, based on various narrations and traditions.
- Historical Significance: Some believe the Quran was first revealed on this night, though this is not definitively established.
- Practical Observance: Focusing on a specific night helps Muslims intensify their worship, even if the exact date is uncertain.
- Tradition: Over time, emphasising the 27th night has become widespread in many Muslim communities.
Note that signs and hadiths provide strong evidence for the twenty-seventh night; Islamic scholars generally agree that Laylatul Qadr can occur on any odd night in the last ten days of Ramadan.
Seeking Laylat al-Qadr
Muslims worship more during the last ten nights of Ramadan, hoping to experience Laylat al-Qadr.
Common practices include performing additional voluntary prayers (Tahajjud), reciting and reflecting upon the Quran, asking for forgiveness, and making supplications (dua).
Many also engage in I’tikaf, a spiritual retreat where one stays in the mosque for extended periods.
Signs of Laylat al-Qadr
While the exact night remains unknown, some signs have been mentioned in Islamic traditions that may indicate Laylat al-Qadr:
- A sense of peace and tranquillity throughout the night.
- Mild, pleasant weather.
- A particularly bright moon.
- The sun rises without strong rays the following morning.
These signs are not definitive proof but are potential indicators for those seeking this blessed night.
Muslims are encouraged to be mindful of these signs while focusing on their worship.

The Wisdom Behind the Uncertainty
The wisdom behind the uncertainty of Laylat al-Qadr’s exact date serves several important purposes:
- It encourages continuous worship throughout the last ten nights of Ramadan rather than focusing on a single night.
- This approach fosters a spirit of dedication and perseverance among believers.
- The uncertainty prompts Muslims to be vigilant and sincere in their worship each night.
- It serves to inspire ongoing devotion, supplication, and good deeds.
- The search for Laylat al-Qadr becomes a journey of spiritual growth.
- By keeping the exact date hidden, Allah encourages His servants to seek His pleasure consistently.
- This aligns with the broader Islamic principle of maintaining constant God-consciousness.
Moreover, it teaches Muslims to always be prepared and value each moment as a potential blessing.
Concealment also adds an element of excitement and anticipation to the last days of Ramadan, energising the Ummah’s spiritual efforts.
Practices for the 27th Night of Ramadan – Laylatul Qadr
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasised the importance of seeking Laylatul Qadr in the last ten nights of Ramadan, with special attention to the 27th night.
Here are some recommended practices based on the Prophet’s teachings and actions:
- Increased Prayer: The Prophet would intensify his worship during these nights. Engage in Tahajjud (night prayers) and extend your regular prayers.
- Quranic Recitation: Spend time reading and reflecting on the Quran, as the Prophet practised this during these nights.
- Astaghfaar (Asking for Forgiveness): Hazrat Aishah reported that she asked the Prophet what to say if she knew which night was Laylatul Qadr. He advised her to say:
- اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
- (O Allah, You are forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me).
- I’tikaf: The Prophet would practice I’tikaf (spiritual retreat in the mosque) during the last ten nights of Ramadan.
- Waking Family: Abu Hurayrah reported that the Prophet would wake his family for prayer on these nights.
- Charity: Increase in acts of generosity and kindness, as the Prophet was known to be most generous during Ramadan.
- Seeking Forgiveness: The Prophet said, “Whoever stands (in prayer) during Laylatul Qadr out of faith and in hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven”.
- Abandoning Worldly Pleasures: Hazrat A’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her said: “Upon entering into the last ten (of Ramadan), the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, would tighten his Izaar (i.e. he stayed away from his wives to have more time for worship), spend the whole night awake (in prayer), and wake up his family.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim) She also said: “Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him, used to exert more efforts (in worship) on the last ten than on other nights.”

When is the 27th Night of Ramadan in 2025?
The 27th night of Ramadan in 2025 is expected to fall on Saturday, 24 May 2025.
However, the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, and the exact date may vary slightly depending on moon sightings.
A Night of Mercy and Forgiveness
Islamic teachings emphasise that Laylat al-Qadr is a night of divine mercy and forgiveness.
Muslims believe that sincere repentance on this night can lead to the forgiveness of past sins.
This belief motivates many to engage in extended periods of prayer and supplication, seeking Allah’s pardon and blessings.
The Power of Collective Worship
On the 27th night, mosques are often filled to capacity as Muslims gather for communal worship.
This collective spirit creates a powerful atmosphere of faith and unity.
The shared experience of prayer and devotion strengthens community bonds and reinforces the sense of belonging to the global Muslim community.
A Time for Charity and Good Deeds
The blessings associated with Laylat al-Qadr inspire many Muslims to increase their charitable activities.
This can include donating to causes, helping those in need, or volunteering for community services.
The belief that good deeds are multiplied during this night motivates many to extend their generosity.
Embracing the Blessings of Laylat al-Qadr
The 27th night of Ramadan offers a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and closeness to Allah.
It’s a time when the doors of mercy are wide open, and every act of worship carries immense reward.
Muslims should approach this night with hope, sincerity, and determination. Increase your prayers, recite the Quran, and make heartfelt supplications.
Remember, even if you’re unsure if it’s the exact Night of Power, your sincere efforts won’t go unrewarded.
Don’t let this chance slip away. Make the most of the 27th night and the last ten nights of Ramadan.
Seek forgiveness, pray for yourself and others, and strive to make positive changes in your life.
The blessings of Laylat al-Qadr can be a turning point in your spiritual journey. Embrace this night with open arms and an open heart.