Written by Bilal Dannoun
As the final ten nights of Ramadan approach, Muslims around the world prepare to seek the blessings of Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Decree, which is better than a thousand months (83.3 years).
This period offers a profound opportunity for spiritual growth, forgiveness, and renewal. To help you make the most of these blessed nights, here are three essential tips on what to do and three crucial advisories on what not to do.
WHAT TO DO
1. Engage in ‘Private’ Worship: The essence of these nights lies in personal connection with Allah. Engage in Qiyaam al-Layl (night prayer), especially in the last third of the night. This time is ideal for personal supplication, reflection, and reading the Quran. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) highlighted the significance of night prayers, making them a key focus during these nights.
2. Treat Every Night as ‘Laylatul Qadr’: Given the uncertainty of Laylatul Qadr’s exact night, treat every night with equal reverence and dedication. Engage in intensive worship, seeking forgiveness, and performing good deeds with the hope that your efforts will coincide with this blessed night. This approach ensures that you maximize your chances of attaining the immense rewards promised for worship on Laylatul Qadr.
3. Perfect Your Dua: Dua is the essence of worship. Use these nights to make sincere supplications from the heart. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recommended saying, “Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni” (O Allah, You are Forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me). This dua not only seeks Allah’s forgiveness but also helps to connect your heart with Him, enhancing your overall spirituality.
WHAT NOT TO DO
1. Don’t Waste Time: Avoid spending these precious nights on activities that do not bring you closer to Allah, such as watching TV, surfing the internet, or engaging in unnecessary socializing. Every moment is an opportunity for worship and reflection, and it’s vital to use this time wisely.
2. Refrain from Sinful Behaviors: Actions such as backbiting, gossiping, or any form of sin can tarnish the sanctity of your worship and distance you from the mercy of Allah. The angels are repelled by the stench of sins, especially during these holy nights. Maintain purity in your actions and thoughts to attract angelic presence and divine mercy.
3. Don’t Neglect Obligatory Prayers: While engaging in extra prayers and worship is commendable, do not let it lead to neglecting the obligatory prayers. Missing Salatul Isha or Salatul Fajr in congregation can significantly diminish the reward of your night’s worship. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of praying these prayers in congregation, equating it to the reward of praying the entire night.
The last ten nights of Ramadan are a gift from Allah, offering unparalleled opportunities for spiritual growth and forgiveness. By focusing on sincere worship, avoiding distractions and sinful behaviors, and prioritizing obligatory prayers, we can hope to emerge from Ramadan spiritually rejuvenated and closer to Allah. Let’s make these nights a beacon of hope, mercy, and forgiveness in our lives, embodying the true spirit of Ramadan.
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