The Night of Power: A Hidden Gem
At the heart of the last ten nights lies a night of immense importance: Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Power.
It’s like finding a precious stone in a handful of pebbles – you’re not quite sure which one it is, but you know it’s there.
The Quran sheds light on its significance:
“We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the Night of Power: And what will explain to thee what the Night of Power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months.” (Quran 97:1-3)
Imagine cramming more than 83 years’ worth of good deeds into a single night – that’s the potential of Laylat al-Qadr.
While its exact date remains a mystery, it’s believed to fall on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last third of Ramadan.
This element of uncertainty encourages Muslims to make the most of each night.
Essential Duas for the Last Ten Nights of Ramadan
These duas are perfect for the blessed final nights of Ramadan. They focus on seeking forgiveness, guidance, and Allah’s blessings.
اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
Transliteration: Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni
Translation: O Allah, You are forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me.
اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
Transliteration: Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni
Translation: O Allah, You are the Pardoner and You love pardon, so pardon me.
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الْعَفْوَ وَالْعَافِيَةَ فِي الدُّنْيَا وَالْآخِرَةِ
Transliteration: Allahumma inni as’aluka al-‘afwa wal-‘afiyah fid-dunya wal-akhirah
Translation: O Allah, I ask You for pardon and well-being in this life and the Hereafter.
اللَّهُمَّ أَعِنِّي عَلَى ذِكْرِكَ وَشُكْرِكَ وَحُسْنِ عِبَادَتِكَ
Transliteration: Allahumma a’inni ‘ala dhikrika wa shukrika wa husni ‘ibadatik
Translation: O Allah, help me to remember You, to thank You, and to worship You in the best manner.
A Time of Intense Devotion
Picture this: the local mosque, usually quiet in the small hours, is buzzing with activity well past midnight.
This scene plays out across the UK during the last ten nights as Muslims follow the example of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
His wife, Aisha, once noted:
“When the last ten nights began, Allah’s Messenger kept awake at night (for prayer and devotion), wakened his family, and prepared himself to observe prayer (with more vigour).” (Sahih Muslim 1174)
Muslims spend extra time in prayer, reading the Quran, and reflecting on their faith.
Wiping the Slate Clean
We all make mistakes, but the last ten nights of Ramadan offer a golden opportunity for a fresh start.
Muslims believe that sincere worship during this time can lead to forgiveness of past sins. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever stands (in prayer) in Laylat al-Qadr while nourishing his faith with self-evaluation, expecting Allah’s reward, will have all of his past sins forgiven.” (Bukhari 1901)
This promise of forgiveness motivates many to double their efforts to improve and strengthen their connection with Allah.
The Practice of I’tikaf: Devoted Worship
Some Muslims take their dedication further by observing I’tikaf – where they spend their time entirely in the mosque.
It’s like pressing pause on the outside world to focus solely on worship and reflection.
Prophet Muhammad used to spend the last ten days of Ramadan in I’tikaf, setting an example that many still follow.
During I’tikaf, participants leave behind their daily routines, work commitments, and family responsibilities to immerse themselves in prayer and Quranic study.
This practice offers a rare chance to disconnect from distractions and reconnect with Allah in our always-connected world.
A Time of Increased Generosity
People are more charitable during the last ten nights of Ramadan. Following the example of Prophet Muhammad, Muslims are encouraged to be extra generous with their charity at this time.
His cousin, Ibn Abbas, recalled:
“The Prophet was the most generous of all people, and he used to become more generous in Ramadan when Jibreel met him. Jibreel used to meet him every night during Ramadan to revise the Quran with him. Allah’s Messenger used to be more generous than the fast wind.” (Bukhari 1902)
This tradition of increased giving during the last ten nights helps support countless charitable causes within Muslim communities and beyond.
Prayers and Preparations
As Ramadan nears its end, the air is filled with heartfelt supplications. Muslims often stay up late, pouring out their hopes, fears, and wishes to God.
A popular prayer for this time, taught by Prophet Muhammad, is beautifully simple:
“O Allah, You are forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me.” (Tirmidhi 3513)
Alongside these religious traditions, there’s also a buzz of excitement as families prepare for Eid al-Fitr, the celebration marking the end of Ramadan.
New clothes are bought, festive foods are planned, and homes are decorated for the upcoming festivities.
Maximising Worship in Ramadan’s Last Ten Nights
For Muslims, the last ten nights of Ramadan are a time of religious reflection and hope.
These nights offer a chance to end the month by seeking forgiveness, strengthening faith, and renewing one’s commitment to living a good life.
May these nights bring peace, forgiveness, and renewed purpose to all as Ramadan draws closer.
