The Prophet (ﷺ) as saying: Seek laitat al-Qadr in the last ten night of Ramadan. When nine (nights) remain (i.e. on the twenty first) , when seven (night) remain (i.e. on the twenty third), and when five (nights) remain (i.e. on the twenty fifth).
Hadith Text & Context
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Seek laitat al-Qadr in the last ten nights of Ramadan. When nine (nights) remain (i.e. on the twenty first), when seven (nights) remain (i.e. on the twenty third), and when five (nights) remain (i.e. on the twenty fifth)."
This narration from Sunan Abi Dawud 1381 provides specific guidance on when to intensify worship during Ramadan's final decade, focusing on odd-numbered nights.
Scholarly Commentary
The command to "seek" Laylat al-Qadr indicates this is a collective obligation (fard kifayah) upon the Muslim community through increased prayer, Quran recitation, and supplication.
The specification of odd nights - 21st, 23rd, and 25th - demonstrates the Prophet's wisdom in distributing worship efforts. Scholars note this doesn't restrict the Night of Decree to these dates exclusively, but rather emphasizes them as prime times for devotion.
Imam Nawawi explains that mentioning these particular nights encourages believers to worship throughout the final ten nights while paying special attention to the odd ones, increasing chances of catching this blessed night.
Practical Implementation
The wise Muslim should intensify worship during all final ten nights, with particular focus on the specified odd nights through Qiyam al-Layl (night prayer), dhikr, and sincere dua.
Scholars recommend reviving these nights with both obligatory and voluntary prayers, seeking forgiveness, and reciting Quran - especially Surah Al-Qadr which reveals this night's immense value exceeding 1,000 months of worship.
This teaching encourages perseverance in worship, as the exact night is concealed to motivate believers to seek it throughout the period, thereby maximizing rewards.