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By: Zaman Noor
As the holy month of Ramadan approaches its pinnacle, Muslims across the globe eagerly await the arrival of a truly momentous occasion Shab-e-Qadr, also known as the “Night of Power” or the “Night of Decree.” This blessed night, which falls during the last ten nights of Ramadan, is revered as one of the most sacred and spiritually significant events in the Islamic calendar.
The significance of Shab-e-Qadr is deeply rooted in the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Quran states in Surah Al-Qadr, “Indeed, We sent it [i.e., 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 better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit [i.e., Jibrael] descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.” (Quran 97:1-5)
This profound verse not only highlights the unparalleled importance of Shab-e-Qadr but also provides us with a glimpse into the grandeur and celestial activity that takes place on this night. Let us delve deeper into the significance and teachings surrounding this blessed occasion.
Shab-e-Qadr is the night on which the Quran, the holy scripture of Islam, was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through the Jibrael (a.s). This momentous event marked the beginning of the prophet’s mission and the guidance that would shape the lives of billions of people for generations to come.
In the Quran, Allah Almighty states, “The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion.” (Quran 2:185) This verse underscores the profound significance of the Quran’s revelation during the sacred month of Ramadan, of which Shab-e-Qadr is the pinnacle.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) further emphasized the importance of this night, as narrated in the authentic Hadith: “Whoever stands [in prayer] during the nights of Laylat al-Qadr [the Night of Decree] out of faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
This promise of forgiveness and spiritual purification on Shab-e-Qadr is a testament to its unparalleled significance in the Islamic faith. It is a night when the gates of heaven are said to be open, and the angels descend to Earth, bringing with them blessings and divine guidance.
The Quran’s description of Shab-e-Qadr as the night “in which the angels and the Spirit [i.e., Jibrael] descend” (Quran 97:4) has captivated the hearts and minds of Muslims throughout history. This celestial activity on the blessed night is a testament to the profound spiritual significance of this occasion.
According to the Hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “On the Night of Decree, the angels and the Spirit [i.e., Jibrael] descend to the earth with blessings and mercy, and this continues until dawn.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i) This narration highlights the constant flow of angels and divine blessings that permeate the earth during Shab-e-Qadr, creating an atmosphere of profound spiritual elevation and closeness to the Divine.
The presence of the angels and including Jibrael (a.s) on this night is not merely a symbolic representation but a tangible reality that reinforces the deep connection between the physical and the spiritual realms. The angels are believed to descend with specific missions and tasks, carrying the decrees and blessings of Allah Almighty to humanity.
Historically, there are numerous accounts that attest to the extraordinary occurrences and witnessed phenomena during Shab-e-Qadr. One such narration is from the renowned Islamic scholar and historian, Ibn Kathir, who recounts an incident from the era of the Umayyad Caliphate. He narrates that during the reign of Caliph Umar ibn Abdul-Aziz, the sky was observed to be brighter than usual on the night of the 27th of Ramadan, which was widely recognized as Shab-e-Qadr. This celestial occurrence was interpreted as a sign of the angels’ descent and the blessings that permeated the night.
The very name “Shab-e-Qadr” – the “Night of Power” or the “Night of Decree” – is deeply symbolic and carries profound theological significance. It is during this night that the destiny and decree of all creation for the coming year are believed to be determined by Allah Almighty.
The Quran states, “Indeed, We sent it [i.e., 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 better than a thousand months.” (Quran 97:1-3) This verse emphasizes the unparalleled importance of Shab-e-Qadr, suggesting that the spiritual rewards and blessings of this night are greater than those of a thousand months combined.
In the Islamic tradition, it is believed that on Shab-e-Qadr, Allah Almighty finalizes and decrees the affairs of the coming year, including the destinies of all living beings, the sustenance they will receive, the calamities they will face and the moments of their death. This profound understanding imbues the night with a sense of solemnity, reverence and awe.
The renowned Companion of the Prophet, Abdullah ibn Abbas(r.a), narrates that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “On the Night of Decree, the destiny of every created being for the coming year is decreed.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i) This Hadith underscores the belief that Shab-e-Qadr is the night when the divine plan for the entire year is laid out, reminding us of the magnitude and the power of this blessed occasion.
In addition to the significance of Shab-e-Qadr, the night also holds immense importance for the spiritual growth and purification of the individual believer. The Quran promises forgiveness and the wiping away of previous sins for those who stand in prayer and seek the pleasure of Allah Almighty during this blessed night.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever stands [in prayer] during the nights of Laylat al-Qadr [the Night of Decree] out of faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih al-Bukhari) This promise of forgiveness is a testament to the transformative power of this night, as it provides an opportunity for believers to seek repentance, purify their souls, and renew their commitment to the path of righteousness.
Historically, there are numerous accounts of pious individuals who dedicated themselves to worship and supplication during Shab-e-Qadr, seeking forgiveness and spiritual renewal. One such example is the renowned Islamic scholar, Imam al-Shafi’i (r.a), who is reported to have spent the entire night of the 27th of Ramadan in prayer, reciting the Quran and seeking forgiveness from Allah Almighty.
The deep spiritual connection and the sincere desire for self-purification during Shab-e-Qadr have been a hallmark of the Islamic tradition, as believers strive to make the most of this precious opportunity to attain the pleasure of Allah and secure their salvation.
Given the immense spiritual significance of Shab-e-Qadr, it is no surprise that Muslims have long sought to identify the exact night when this blessed occasion takes place. The Quran does not specify the exact date of Shab-e-Qadr, leaving it open to interpretation and spiritual contemplation.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged his followers to search for Shab-e-Qadr during the last ten nights of Ramadan, as narrated in the authentic Hadith: “Seek it [i.e., Laylat al-Qadr] in the last ten nights of Ramadan.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
This search for the exact night of Shab-e-Qadr has led to a rich tradition of spiritual practices and devotions during the last ten nights of Ramadan. Muslims engage in increased acts of worship, recitation of the Quran, and supplications, hoping to coincide their spiritual efforts with the blessed night.
Throughout Islamic history, various scholars and pious individuals have put forth their interpretations and beliefs regarding the timing of Shab-e-Qadr. Some believe it to be the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th night of Ramadan, while others emphasize the importance of searching for it throughout the last ten nights.
Ultimately the exact date of Shab-e-Qadr remains a mystery, adding to its profound spiritual significance. The search for this blessed night has become a cherished tradition, as believers strive to make the most of the opportunities presented during the last ten nights of Ramadan.
The Quran and the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) have emphasized the unparalleled virtues and rewards associated with Shab-e-Qadr. These divine teachings serve as a powerful inspiration for believers to dedicatethemselves to spiritual practices and devotions during this blessed night.
The Quran states, “The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” (Quran 97:3) This verse highlights the immense spiritual value of Shab-e-Qadr, suggesting that the rewards and blessings of this night are far greater than those of a thousand months combined.
In a Hadith narrated by Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (r.a), the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is reported to have said, “Whoever stands in prayer and recites Qur’an on the Night of Decree, his sins will be forgiven.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i) This promise of forgiveness for those who engage in acts of worship and Quranic recitation on Shab-e-Qadr is a testament to the transformative power of this blessed night.
Furthermore, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is narrated to have said, “Whoever stands [in prayer] during the nights of Laylat al-Qadr [the Night of Decree] out of faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih al-Bukhari) This Hadith emphasizes the importance of seeking the pleasure of Allah Almighty and the forgiveness of sins through sincere devotion and worship during Shab-e-Qadr.
The virtues and rewards associated with Shab-e-Qadr have inspired generations of Muslims to dedicate themselves to spiritual practices and acts of worship during this sacred night. From increased recitation of the Quran and supplication to engaging in voluntary prayers and acts of charity, the believers strive to make the most of this precious opportunity to secure the pleasure of Allah Almighty and attain spiritual purification.
The significance of Shab-e-Qadr is not limited to the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him); it also holds a prominent place in the annals of Islamic history. Throughout the centuries, the Muslim ummah (community) has celebrated and commemorated this blessed night with fervor and devotion.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is reported to have spent the entire night in prayer and supplication, seeking Allah’s help and guidance in the upcoming battle. The Quran later revealed that this was a night of great significance, stating, “Indeed, We sent it [i.e., the Quran] down during the Night of Decree.” (Quran 97:1) This suggests that the revelation of the Quran and the decisive victory at Badr were intertwined, further emphasizing the spiritual importance of Shab-e-Qadr.
Throughout Islamic history, many pious individuals and scholars have devoted themselves to the observance and commemoration of Shab-e-Qadr. The renowned Sufi saint, Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (r.a), is known to have spent the entirety of the 27th of Ramadan in spiritual retreat, engaging in dhikr (remembrance of Allah), recitation of the Quran, and heartfelt supplications.
In the modern era, the celebration of Shab-e-Qadr continues to be a significant part of the Islamic tradition. Muslims around the world gather in mosques, homes, and community centers to engage in collective acts of worship, recitation of the Quran, and spiritual contemplation, seeking the blessings and forgiveness of Allah Almighty.
The historical significance and the enduring legacy of Shab-e-Qadr serve as a testament to the profound impact of this blessed night on the lives of Muslims throughout the ages. It continues to inspire believers to deepen their connection with the Divine and strive for spiritual growth and purification.
Shab-e-Qadr, the “Night of Power” or the “Night of Decree,” stands as one of the most revered and spiritually significant occasions in the Islamic calendar. Rooted in the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), this blessed night holds a profound and multifaceted significance for the Muslim ummah.
From the revelation of the Quran to the decree of the divine plan for the coming year, Shab-e-Qadr is imbued with a sense of celestial activity and divine presence that captivates the hearts and minds of believers. The promise of forgiveness and spiritual purification on this night further underscores its transformative power, inspiring Muslims to dedicate themselves to acts of worship, supplication, and self-reflection.
The search for Shab-e-Qadr, the rich tradition of commemorating this blessed occasion, and the historical events associated with it all contribute to the enduring legacy of this sacred night. As the Muslim community eagerly awaits the arrival of Shab-e-Qadr, they are reminded of the boundless mercy and guidance of Allah Almighty, and the opportunity to draw closer to the Divine and secure their salvation.
May the blessings and the spiritual elevation of Shab-e-Qadr continue to inspire and uplift our hearts, guiding us towards a deeper connection with their Creator and a life of righteousness, humbleness, kindness and peace soul. Ameen
