Importance Of Shab-e-Qadar 2024

Shab e Qadar, also known as Laylat al-Qadr, holds immense importance for Muslims during the sacred month of Ramadan. This night is believed to be the momentous occasion when the angel Gabriel revealed the first verses of the Holy Quran to Prophet Muhammad, marking the beginning of divine revelation.

The Quran itself sheds light on the events that transpire during this blessed night, as Allah declares: “On that night, the angels and the holy Spirit descend for every matter decreed, with the permission of their Lord. Peace reigns until the break of dawn [97: 4-5].“

The significance of Shab e Qadar is further emphasized by the belief that engaging in prayer and worship during this night surpasses the rewards of a thousand months of devotion. However, the precise date of this night remains a mystery, as various hadiths offer different accounts. What is known is that it falls on an odd-numbered night within the last ten days of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Consequently, Muslims have long regarded the final ten nights of Ramadan as a period of exceptional blessings and spiritual opportunities.

According to Islamic teachings, the Night of Qadar is an annual occurrence, bringing forth an abundance of spiritual favors and divine goodness. Muslims hold the belief that during this night, sincere repentance is granted forgiveness, heartfelt prayers are answered, and the divine plan for the forthcoming year is revealed to the angels, who then carry out God’s will.

The profound spiritual significance of Shab e Qadar inspires Muslims to invest their time and energy in prayer, recitation of the Quran, and acts of charity during the last ten nights of Ramadan. They seek to align their hearts and minds with the divine, hoping to attain the blessings and mercy that are abundantly bestowed upon the faithful during this sacred period.

When is Shab e Qadar 2024?

According to popular belief among many individuals, the blessed night of Laylatul Qadar, also known as the Night of Power, is expected to occur on the evening of April 6, 2024, coinciding with the 27th day of the holy month of Ramadan. However, it is important to note that scholars of Hadith strongly recommend focusing one’s efforts and devotion on the final 10 nights of Ramadan, with particular emphasis on the odd-numbered nights. This advice is rooted in the following Hadith, which suggests a higher likelihood of Laylatul Qadar falling on one of these specific nights:

The beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) imparted this valuable guidance: “Seek for it during the odd-numbered nights of the final 10 nights of Ramadan.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

It is crucial to acknowledge that pinpointing the precise date of Laylatul Qadar with absolute certainty is beyond human capacity. The exact knowledge of its occurrence lies solely with Allah, the All-Knowing. However, based on the wisdom derived from the Hadith, it is widely accepted that Laylatul Qadar is most likely to be observed on one of the odd-numbered nights (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th) within the last 10 nights of Ramadan.

Muslims around the world are encouraged to intensify their spiritual pursuits, engage in heartfelt prayers, and seek divine forgiveness during these auspicious nights. By dedicating themselves to worship, recitation of the Holy Quran, and acts of kindness, believers aspire to attain the immense blessings and rewards associated with Laylatul Qadar, even if its exact date remains a mystery.

As the anticipation for Shab e Qadar builds, the faithful are reminded to approach these sacred nights with utmost sincerity, humility, and a genuine desire to strengthen their connection with the Almighty. By immersing themselves in the spirit of Ramadan and seeking the Night of Power with unwavering devotion, Muslims hope to be among the fortunate ones who witness the descent of divine mercy and forgiveness upon humanity.

Excellence of Shab-e-Qadar

The night of unparalleled excellence, known as Laylatul Qadar, holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. In the Arabic language, the word “Layla” signifies night, while in Persian, the term “Shabb” is used to refer to the same. Furthermore, the word “Qadar” carries the meaning of nobility. It was on this extraordinary night that Allah Almighty bestowed upon the umma of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) an exceptional blessing, wherein the reward for prayers and acts of worship surpasses the value of a thousand months.

According to a narration by Mawta ibn Imam Malik, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) contemplated the situation of his umma when he learned about the extended life spans of the previous nations. He pondered how his followers, with their comparatively shorter lifetimes, would be able to achieve deeds and righteousness equivalent to those of the earlier communities.

In response to this concern, Allah Almighty granted the Holy Prophet (PBUH) the gift of Laylatul Qadar, also known as Shab e Qadar. The significance of this night lies in the fact that it is deemed more excellent and virtuous than a thousand months combined. This divine blessing was bestowed upon the Holy Prophet’s umma as a means to compensate for their relatively shorter life spans, enabling them to attain immense rewards and blessings within a limited timeframe.

The Beloved Prophet (PBUH) himself has emphasized the tremendous value of this sacred night, declaring: All those who engage in acts of worship on Shab-e-Qadr with sincerity and true faith (Iman) will have their past sins forgiven. (Hadees 1901, Sahih Bukhari, vol. 1, p. 626)

This profound statement underscores the immeasurable mercy and forgiveness that descend upon the believers during Laylatul Qadar. It serves as a reminder of the boundless opportunities for spiritual growth and redemption that lie within this blessed night.

As Muslims around the world eagerly await the arrival of Shab-e-Qadar, they are encouraged to immerse themselves in sincere prayer, heartfelt supplications, and acts of devotion. By dedicating themselves wholeheartedly to worship during this sacred night, they seek to attain the abundant blessings and rewards promised by the Almighty.

The excellence of Shab-e-Qadar serves as a testament to the infinite wisdom and compassion of Allah Almighty, who has granted His servants a means to elevate their spiritual status and seek nearness to Him. It is a night of unparalleled significance, offering a pathway to forgiveness, mercy, and the attainment of divine pleasure.

Nawafil of Shab e Qadar 

Faqeeh Abul Lays رَحْمَةُ اللهِ تَعَالٰی عَلَيْه has provided valuable guidance regarding the number of Rakats to be performed during the blessed night of Shab-e-Qadr. According to his teachings, the minimum number of Rakats to be offered on this sacred night is 2, while the maximum number can reach up to an impressive 1000 Rakats. However, the standard and commonly recommended number of Rakats for Shab-e-Qadr is set at 100.

When it comes to the recitation within each Rakat, Faqeeh Abul Lays رَحْمَةُ اللهِ تَعَالٰی عَلَيْه has outlined a specific pattern. After reciting Surah Al-Fatihah, which is the opening chapter of the Holy Quran, it is advised to recite Surah Al-Qadr once, followed by Surah Al-Ikhlas three times. This combination of surahs holds immense significance and blessings, as Surah Al-Qadr specifically relates to the Night of Power, while Surah Al-Ikhlas affirms the oneness and unity of Allah Almighty.

Upon completing every two Rakats with Salam, which marks the end of the prayer, it is highly recommended to recite Salat (salutations) upon the Beloved Rasool صَلَّى اللهُ تَعَالٰى عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم. This act of sending blessings and peace upon the Holy Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى اللهُ تَعَالٰى عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم holds immense merit and is a means of seeking nearness to Allah Almighty.

These precious insights and recommendations from Faqeeh Abul Lays رَحْمَةُ اللهِ تَعَالٰی عَلَيْه can be found on page 483 of the esteemed book “Ruh-ul-Bayan,” volume 10. This comprehensive work serves as a valuable resource for Muslims seeking guidance and understanding of Islamic practices and spirituality.

As believers prepare themselves for the blessed night of Shab-e-Qadr, it is crucial to keep these teachings in mind and strive to follow them with sincerity and devotion. By dedicating oneself to prayer, recitation, and sending salutations upon the Beloved Prophet صَلَّى اللهُ تَعَالٰى عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم, one can hope to attain the immense blessings and rewards associated with this sacred night.

The First Night of Shab E Qadar: The 21st Night

Offering 4 Rakats (with 2 Salams in each)

• After reciting Surah Fatiha, recite Surah Ikhlas once and Surah Qadr once in each rakat.
• Upon completing the Salam, recite Astagfar (seeking forgiveness) 70 times.

Blessings and Rewards: Through the abundant blessings and mercies of Shab E Qadar, the individual who performs this prayer will have all of their past sins forgiven, Insha Allah.

The Second Night of Shab E Qadar: The 23rd Night

Performing 4 Rakats (With two Salams)

• In each Rakat, after reciting Surah Fatiha, recite Surah Ikhlas three times and Surah Qadr once.

Blessings and Rewards: By virtue of the immense blessings and grace bestowed during Shab E Qadar, the individual who engages in this prayer will have all of their previous sins forgiven.

Offering 8 Rakats:

• In each rakat, following the recitation of Surah Fatiha, recite Surah Ikhlas once and Surah Qadr once, completing the prayer with four salams.
• After the Salam, recite Kalma e Tamjeed (the phrase of glorification) seventy times and sincerely seek Allah’s forgiveness.

Blessings and Rewards: The individual who performs this prayer with sincerity and devotion will have all of their past sins pardoned and forgiven by the infinite mercy of Allah Almighty.

The Third Night of Shab E Qadar: The 25th Night Performing 4 Rakats (with 2 Salams)

• In each Rakat, after reciting Surah Fatiha, recite Surah Ikhlas five times and Surah Qadr once.
• Upon completing the Salam, recite Kalma e Tayiba 100 times and earnestly seek forgiveness from Allah.

Blessings and Rewards: In remembrance of the abundant blessings of Shab E Qadar, Allah Ta’ala will grant the individual the rewards equivalent to countless prayers.

Offering 4 Rakats (With two Salams)

• In each Rakat, following the recitation of Surah Fatiha, recite Surah Qadr three times and Surah Ikhlas three times.
• After the Salam, recite Astaghfar (seeking forgiveness) 70 times.

Blessings and Rewards: The individual who performs this prayer will have all of their previous sins forgiven, Insha’Allah.

Performing 2 Rakats

• In each rakat, after reciting Surah Fatiha, recite Surah Ikhlas fifteen times and Surah Qadr once.
• Upon completing the Salam, recite Kalma E Shahadat seventy times.

Blessings and Rewards: This Namaz serves as a means of protection, keeping the individual away from the punishment of the grave, Insha Allah.

The Fourth Night of Shab E Qadar: The 27th Night

Offering 12 Rakats (with 3 Salams)

• In each Rakat, following the recitation of Surah Fatiha, recite Surah Ikhlas fifteen times and Surah Qadr once.
• After completing the Salam, recite Astagfar (seeking forgiveness) 70 times.

Blessings and Rewards: The individual who offers this namaz will be granted the reward equivalent to praising the prayers of the prophets, Insha’Allah.

Performing 2 Rakats

• In each Rakat, after reciting Surah Fatiha, recite Surah Ikhlas 27 times and Surah Qadr 3 times.

Blessings and Rewards: Allah will forgive all of the individual’s previous sins, Insha Allah.

Offering 4 Rakats (with two Salams)

• In each Rakat, after reciting Surah Fatiha, recite Surah Ikhlas three times and Surah Takasur once.

Blessings and Rewards: Allah will alleviate the individual’s suffering at the time of death and forgive the torment in the Qabr (Grave), Insha’Allah.

Performing 2 Rakats

• In each rakat, after reciting Surah Fatiha, recite Surah Ikhlas seven times. Upon completing the Salam, recite the following dua: Astagfirulla hil azi mullazi la illaha illal la hu wal hayul khayum wa atubuilai

The Fifth Night of Shab E Qadar: The 29th Night

Offering 4 Rakats (with 2 Salams)

• In each Rakat, after reciting Surah Fatiha, recite Surah Ikhlas three times and Surah Qadr once.
• After completing the Salam, recite Surah Alam Nashrah seventy times.

Blessings and Rewards: The individual will be granted the blessing of departing from this world with complete and perfect faith (Kamil Iman).

Dua to be recited after Namaz

Rabbana Aatina Fid Duniya Hasanataw Wafil Akhirati Hasanataw Wa Qina Azaaban Naar.

Important Points of Shab e Qadar

The exact date of Shab-e-Qadr is unknown. However, it is believed to fall on one of the odd-numbered nights—the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th night—during the final ten days of the holy month of Ramadan.

Muslims hold the belief that on this night, angels descend to Earth, bringing blessings and kindness from the heavenly realm.

This night is also associated with the notion that prayers and hopes are more likely to be granted. Muslims believe that on Shab-e-Qadr, their sincere supplications to Allah for enlightenment and repentance have a higher chance of being answered.

Some Muslims choose to spend the entire night engaged in prayer and worship, while others may perform a special congregational prayer called Taraweeh, which is exclusively offered during the month of Ramadan.

Muslims often use this night as an opportunity for introspection, reflecting on their actions and seeking forgiveness for their mistakes. It is considered an auspicious time to ask for Allah’s forgiveness.

During the month of Ramadan, particularly in the final ten days that encompass Shab-e-Qadr, Muslims frequently engage in charitable acts and good deeds. This is viewed as a means of multiplying blessings and achieving self-purification.

Shab-e-Qadr is observed with great reverence and devotion by Muslims, who regard it as a sacred and auspicious night. The significance of Shab-e-Qadr is deeply ingrained in Islamic faith and traditions.

Important Duas and Hadith on Shab e Qadar 

According to scholars, the following is a popular dua made during the final 10 nights of Ramadan in the hopes that it comes on Laylatul Qadar:

اللْهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُعَنِّي

Allahumma innaka afuwwun tuhibbulafwa fafuannee

“O Allah, indeed, You are the Pardoner, You love to Pardon, so Pardon me.” [Tirmidhi]

(رَبَّنَا اتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الاخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ) Surah Baqarah, (2:201)
‏Rabbana Atina fid Dunya Hasanatan Wa Fil Akhirati Hasanatan Waqina Azaban Nar

“Our Lord! Give us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good, and save us from the punishment of the Fire.”

Shab e Qadar in Quran

It is stated in the Quran regarding Shab-e-Qadr:

“The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein by the command of their Lord for every affair. Peace it is until the break of dawn.” [Quran: 97:3-5]

The revelation of the Quran took place during the month of Ramadan, as mentioned in Surah al-Qadr (97) and the Quran (Al-Baqarah 2:185). Thus, it is evident that the divine revelation of the Quran occurred within the month of Ramadan.

The great night of Laylatul Qadr is described in the Quran as being superior to a thousand months, indicating that worship and devotion to Allah on this night will be rewarded with everlasting blessings. One must continuously recite supplications and dedicate oneself to prayer in order to attain the favor of God.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Shab-e-Qadr, according to Islamic beliefs and practices, is regarded as one of the most significant nights during the holy month of Ramadan. Muslims are encouraged to focus their efforts on prayer, charitable acts, and righteous deeds during this period. It is believed to be a time of receiving spiritual grace and blessings. While the exact date of Shab-e-Qadr remains uncertain, it is considered to fall on an odd-numbered night within the last ten days of Ramadan.

Muslims pay special attention and reverence to this night by offering supplications (duas) and voluntary prayers (nawafil) with the intention of seeking Allah’s mercy and rewards. Through prayer and worship, Muslims seek forgiveness and blessings from Allah; the merits of this night are believed to surpass the merits of a thousand months of prayer.

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