The Last 10 Days of Ramadan: A time for reflection, prayer, seeking ‘Laylatul Qadr’
The last ten days of Ramadan are distinct because they offer a chance to draw closer to Allah in a profound way. During this period, Muslims engage in more intense worship, which includes additional prayers (Tahajjud), increased recitation of the Qur’an, and giving more charity.
It is also a time when many choose to retreat into the mosque for I’tikaf (spiritual seclusion), in order to devote themselves fully to prayer and worship.
The Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was known to intensify his devotion in the last ten days. A well-known Hadith narrated by Aisha (RA) states:
“The Prophet (PBUH) used to strive hard in worship during the last ten days of Ramadan, more so than at any other time.”
(Sahih Muslim)
This tradition underlines the importance of dedicating oneself to worship and seeking Allah’s favor during this period.
Laylatul Qadr: The Night of Power
The last ten days of Ramadan are especially marked by the possibility of encountering Laylatul Qadr, also known as the Night of Power. This night, which is considered to fall on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last ten days (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th), holds immense significance in Islam. It is believed that during this night, the Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and it is a time when the mercy and forgiveness of Allah are abundant.
Laylatul Qadr is described in the Qur’an as a night that is better than a thousand months:
“Indeed, We sent it [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.”
(Surah Al-Qadr, 97:1-3)
The reward for acts of worship on Laylatul Qadr is greater than that of a thousand months. For this reason, Muslims strive to engage in extra prayers, supplication, and remembrance of Allah on these nights, in the hope of being granted this extraordinary blessing.
The Spiritual Benefits of the Last Ten Days
The last ten days of Ramadan offer spiritual rewards that are difficult to quantify but are deeply transformative for those who seek them sincerely. Here are some of the benefits:
Increased Forgiveness: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and hoping for reward will have his past sins forgiven.”
(Sahih Bukhari)
This applies to those who use the last ten days of Ramadan as an opportunity to seek Allah’s forgiveness. The recitation of the Qur’an and increased supplication can serve as a means to cleanse the soul and renew one’s faith.
Greater Closeness to Allah: The pursuit of Allah’s pleasure and mercy is intensified in the last ten days, especially on Laylatul Qadr. As Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And your ally is none but Allah and [His] Messenger and those who have believed – those who establish the prayer and give the zakah, and they bow [in worship].”
(Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:55)
This verse emphasizes the importance of worship and charity, activities that are greatly rewarded in the final days of Ramadan.
READ ALSO: The spiritual significance, benefits of the first 10 days of Ramadan
A Time of Self-Reflection: The last ten days allow Muslims to reflect on their actions throughout the year and seek self-improvement. They engage in soul-searching to identify ways in which they can become better individuals, improve their relationship with Allah, and enhance their community ties.
Increased Dua (Supplication): During these days, Muslims make special supplications, seeking Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and guidance. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“When one of you prays, he should ask Allah for the best of what he seeks.”
(Sahih Muslim)
Laylatul Qadr provides an excellent opportunity to make personal supplications, asking Allah for the fulfillment of one’s needs, guidance, and protection.
The Importance of I’tikaf
One of the most significant practices during the last ten days of Ramadan is I’tikaf, the act of secluding oneself in the mosque for worship and prayer. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would engage in I’tikaf during the last ten days of Ramadan to devote himself entirely to worship and to seek Laylatul Qadr. This practice emphasizes the importance of focusing entirely on Allah during this blessed time.
Conclusion: A Time for Deep Reflection and Devotion
The last ten days of Ramadan offer Muslims a chance for spiritual rejuvenation, forgiveness, and growth. These days, especially the nights of Laylatul Qadr, are moments where Allah’s mercy is abundant, and the rewards for worship are magnified. By engaging in prayer, reflection, and seeking forgiveness, Muslims can maximize the blessings of this holy month.
As the Qur’an reminds us:
“And remember the name of your Lord and devote yourself to Him with [complete] devotion.”
(Surah Al-Muzzammil, 73:8)
In the final days of Ramadan, Muslims should seek to increase their devotion and strive to earn the boundless blessings of Allah, hoping that they will be granted peace, guidance, and forgiveness.
May Almighty Allah make us see the night of Laylatul Qadr and grant us the opportunity to benefit from its immense blessings. Ameen.
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