The last 10 nights hold even greater significance, as they include Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Decree), a night described in the Qur’an as “better than a thousand months” (Qur’an 97:3).
Muslims across the world increase their acts of worship, often keeping vigil through the nights in prayer, supplication, and remembrance of Allah. Below are the main reasons why Muslims stay awake during the last 10 nights of Ramadan:
(1) LAYLATUL QADR: A NIGHT OF IMMENSE REWARD
The most compelling reason for keeping vigil in the last ten nights is the search for Laylatul Qadr. In Surah Al-Qadr (97:1-5), Allah describes this night:
“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 [Jibreel] descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.”
Since the exact date of Laylatul Qadr is not known, the Prophet (PBUH) advised seeking it in the odd-numbered nights of the last ten (Bukhari, 2017; Muslim, 1165). Staying awake in worship during these nights increases the likelihood of experiencing the blessings of this powerful night.
(2) THE PRACTICE OF THE PROPHET (PBUH)
The Sunnah (tradition) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) provides clear guidance on the importance of keeping vigil during these nights.
Aisha (RA) reported: “When the last ten nights of Ramadan came, the Prophet (PBUH) would tighten his waist belt, stay up at night, and awaken his family.” (Bukhari, 2024; Muslim, 1174)
The phrase “tighten his waist belt” is interpreted to mean either increased devotion or avoiding marital relations to focus solely on worship.
The Prophet (PBUH) would wake up his family, emphasizing the communal nature of worship and the importance of seizing the opportunity for forgiveness.
(3) A TIME FOR INTENSIVE WORSHIP AND FORGIVENESS
The Prophet (PBUH) emphasized that those who stand in prayer on Laylatul Qadr with sincerity and faith will have their past sins forgiven (Bukhari, 1901; Muslim, 760).
The recommended acts of worship during these nights include:
Qiyam al-Layl (Night Prayers): Prolonged voluntary prayers, especially Tahajjud.
Dua (Supplication): Aisha (RA) asked the Prophet what to say on Laylatul Qadr, and he taught her: “Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni” (O Allah, You are Most Forgiving, and You love to forgive, so forgive me). (Tirmidhi, 3513)
Recitation of the Qur’an: Reflecting on the words of Allah and deepening spiritual connection.
Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah): Engaging in glorification and praise of Allah.
Charity and Good Deeds: Maximizing rewards in these blessed nights.
(4) I’TIKAF: SECLUSION IN THE MOSQUE
Another major Sunnah during the last ten nights is I’tikaf, where Muslims retreat to the mosque for dedicated worship.
Aisha (RA) said: “The Prophet (PBUH) used to observe I’tikaf in the last ten nights of Ramadan until he passed away, and then his wives continued it after him.” (Bukhari, 2026; Muslim, 1172)
The goal of I’tikaf is to completely disconnect from worldly distractions and focus on seeking closeness to Allah.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) embodied dedication and humility in worship. Despite being forgiven by Allah, he spent the nights in prayer, weeping, and seeking Allah’s mercy.
An example from his life illustrates this:
One night, he prayed so long that his feet swelled. Aisha (RA) asked, “O Messenger of Allah, why do you do this when your past and future sins have been forgiven?”
He replied: “Should I not be a grateful servant?” (Bukhari, 1130; Muslim, 2819)
This teaches us that Ramadan is not just about seeking forgiveness but also about expressing gratitude and devotion.
The last ten nights of Ramadan are a divine opportunity for Muslims to reset their faith, seek forgiveness, and earn unimaginable rewards. Keeping vigil through prayer, supplication, and Qur’an recitation follows the footsteps of the Prophet (PBUH) and brings immense spiritual benefits.
May we all be granted the ability to make the most of these sacred nights and witness Laylatul Qadr. Ameen.
-Jamiu Abubakar
(08085185886)
