Laylat al-Qadr: The Night of Power and Excellence 🌙
Comprehensive Definition
Laylat al-Qadr (ليلة القدر), often translated as “The Night of Power” or “The Night of Excellence,” marks the momentous occasion when Prophet Muhammad received the first revelation of the Quran from Angel Gabriel. Occurring during the last ten nights of Ramadan, it is typically commemorated on the night between the twenty-sixth and twenty-seventh days of the holy month.
Etymology
The term “Laylat al-Qadr” translates from Arabic as “Night of Decree” or “Night of Power,” reflecting its significance in Islamic belief due to the manifold spiritual virtues and the descent of angels and the Spirit (Gabriel) by God’s permission during this night.
Background & Historical Facts
Historical Context: In around 610 CE, during one of his retreats to the cave of Hira, the Prophet Muhammad received the first words of the Quran through the archangel Gabriel. This event is commemorated on Laylat al-Qadr.
Significance in Islamic Calendar: Although the precise date of Laylat al-Qadr varies by cultural interpretations, it is most commonly celebrated on the 27th night of Ramadan. Sunni Muslims usually commemorate it on the 27th night, whereas Shia Muslims observe it on various dates, including the 19th, 21st, 23rd, and/or 27th.
Cultural Differences & Similarities
- Sunni vs. Shia: Both Sunni and Shia Muslims honor this night, though the exact observance date may differ.
- Global Practices: In many Muslim-majority countries, special prayers (Tahajjud), sermons, and religious discussions mark the night.
Synonyms & Related Terms
- Night of Decree
- Night of Destiny
- Laylat ul Qadr
Exciting Facts
- Spiritual Excellence: It is believed that the nights’ acts of worship and good deeds are better than those of a thousand months.
- Descent of Angels: According to tradition, angels fill the earth on this night to witness believers’ prayers and worship.
Quotations
The Quran speaks of this night in Surah Al-Qadr (97:1-5):
“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. The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.”
Further Studies & Inspiration
For those seeking deeper understanding, the following literature comes highly recommended:
- “In the Footsteps of the Prophet” by Tariq Ramadan
- “The Quran: A New Translation” by Muhammad Abdel Haleem
- “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources” by Martin Lings
Inspirational Farewell:
Embrace the serenity of Laylat al-Qadr as an invitation to draw nearer to the Divine. Let it serve as a reminder of the power of revelation and the essence of spiritual reflection.
