Doha: Ramadan, the most blessed month of the year, offers unparalleled spiritual rewards, and its final ten nights are the pinnacle of devotion. These nights include Laylat Al Qadr, described in the Holy Quran as “a night in which every matter of wisdom is determined.” These final ten nights are precious opportunities, embraced by fasting believers eager to fill every moment with acts of worship and piety.
According to Qatar News Agency, scholars have identified acts of worship that fasting individuals should prioritize during these nights to ensure a blessed conclusion to Ramadan and earn greater rewards. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of making the most of these nights, which offer unique blessings found nowhere else throughout the year.
One essential behavior is avoiding disputes and animosity during Ramadan, especially in its final ten nights. The Prophet said: “Fasting is a shield. On a day when one of you is fasting, let him not engage in foul or loud speech. If someone insults or fights him, let him say: ‘I am fasting.'” Scholars attribute the concealment of Laylat Al Qadr to disputes between Muslims, as reflected in the hadith: “The Prophet came out to inform us about Laylat Al Qadr, but two men argued, so its knowledge was taken away.” Additionally, increased effort in prayer and Quran recitation is encouraged, following the example of the Prophet. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said: “The Messenger of Allah exerted himself during the last ten nights in a way he did not do at other times.” She also reported: “When the last ten nights began, he would tighten his waist belt, stay awake at night, and awaken his family.”
I’tikaf, or spiritual seclusion in mosques, is the pinnacle of worship during the final ten nights. It involves staying in the mosque without leaving except for necessities. The Prophet observed I’tikaf annually during these nights, and in the year of his passing, he extended it to twenty days. I’tikaf allows believers to detach from worldly distractions and focus entirely on their relationship with Allah. Ibn Al-Qayyim described its essence as: “The seclusion of the heart with Allah, focusing solely on His remembrance and love, and replacing worldly concerns with devotion to Him.” I’tikaf begins at sunset on the 21st night of Ramadan and ends at sunset on the last night. Both men and women can observe I’tikaf, provided women have a designated space in the mosque and fulfill their family and work obligations.
Laylat Al Qadr, described in the Quran as “better than a thousand months,” offers worshippers rewards far beyond their imagination. Scholars believe Allah concealed its precise date to inspire continuous worship during the final nights. Many early Muslims would bathe, perfume themselves, and wear their best clothes on these nights, especially the odd-numbered ones, in hope of witnessing this blessed occasion.
The final ten nights of Ramadan represent the culmination of the holiest month of the year. With their immense spiritual significance, they provide an unparalleled opportunity for believers to deepen their connection with Allah and achieve profound rewards.