Prayers and Supplications for Laylat al-Qadr

Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Power, is a blessed night hidden within the last ten days of Ramadan, surpassing a thousand months in virtue. It is the night when the Quran was first revealed, angels descend to Earth, and prayers are answered. Observing Laylat al-Qadr is a great opportunity and spiritual gain for Muslims. The prayers and supplications made on this night serve as a means to attain Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.

The Virtue and Significance of Laylat al-Qadr

The importance of Laylat al-Qadr is explicitly stated in the Quran, in Surah Al-Qadr:

• “Indeed, We sent the Quran down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better¹ 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.”² (Surah Al-Qadr, 1-5)

These verses demonstrate the immense value of Laylat al-Qadr and the great reward of acts of worship performed on this night. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also emphasized the virtue of Laylat al-Qadr in many of his hadiths. In one hadith, he said, “Whoever prays on Laylat al-Qadr believing (in its reward) and seeking his reward from Allah, then his previous sins are forgiven.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

Prayers and Supplications to Make on Laylat al-Qadr

One of the most beautiful prayers to recite on Laylat al-Qadr is the one that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught to Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her):

• “Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul-‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni.”
  • Transliteration: Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun, tuhibbul-‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni.
  • Meaning: O Allah, You are forgiving and love forgiveness,³ so forgive me.

This supplication is highly recommended to be repeated frequently on Laylat al-Qadr. Additionally, the following prayers can be made:

• Seeking forgiveness from Allah: Repenting for past sins and asking for Allah’s forgiveness.
• Asking Allah for mercy and blessings: Seeking Allah’s help and blessings in worldly and spiritual matters.
• Seeking guidance from Allah: Asking Allah for steadfastness on the right path and protection from misguidance.
• Praying for oneself, one’s family, and all Muslims: Wishing for health, well-being, peace, and happiness.
• Reading and contemplating the Quran: Reflecting on the meaning of the Quran and drawing lessons from it.
• Sending salawat upon Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): Offering prayers and blessings upon the Prophet.
• “Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina ‘adhaban-nar.”
  • Transliteration: Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina ‘adhaban-nar.
  • Meaning: Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter and⁴ protect us from the punishment of the Fire. (Quran 2:201)

Suggestions for Observing Laylat al-Qadr

• Spending the night in worship: Engaging in acts of worship such as praying, reciting the Quran, making supplications, and performing dhikr.
• Making abundant supplications: Particularly repeating the prayers mentioned above.
• Repenting and seeking forgiveness: Repenting for past sins and asking for Allah’s forgiveness.
• Giving charity: Helping those in need and giving sadaqah.
• Reconciling those who are estranged: Resolving conflicts and promoting peace among people.
• Reciting Salawat frequently.

Signs of Laylat al-Qadr

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mentioned some signs of Laylat al-Qadr:

• The weather is calm and clear.
• It is neither hot nor cold.
• The moon is bright and appears like a full moon.
• The sun rises without rays on the morning after.

These signs reflect the spiritual atmosphere of Laylat al-Qadr.

Final Words

Laylat al-Qadr is a unique opportunity for Muslims. It is important to make the most of this night to attain Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. May our prayers and supplications be accepted on Laylat al-Qadr.

References

• Sahih al-Bukhari
• Sahih Muslim
• Elmalılı Muhammed Hamdi Yazır, Hak Dini Kur’an Dili
• Imam Nevevi, Riyad as-Salihin

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