Virtues of the Night of Qadr

Sahih al-Bukhari - Hadith 2017

The Hadith Text

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Search for the Night of Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan."

Commentary on the Timing

The Prophet's guidance to seek Laylat al-Qadr in the odd nights demonstrates divine wisdom. The concealment of its exact night encourages increased worship throughout all ten nights, multiplying rewards for the believers.

Scholars have differed on which specific odd night it might be, with strongest opinions pointing to the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th nights. This uncertainty serves as a test of sincerity and motivates continuous devotion.

Wisdom Behind the Concealment

Had Allah specified the exact night, people might have limited their worship to that single night. By keeping it hidden among odd nights, believers are compelled to increase their devotion, prayer, and Quran recitation throughout the concluding decade of Ramadan.

This approach cultivates consistency in worship and prevents spiritual complacency, ensuring maximum spiritual benefit during these blessed nights.

Practical Implementation

The pious predecessors would intensify their worship during all odd nights, standing in prayer, reciting Quran, making supplication, and giving charity. They understood that seeking requires action, not mere anticipation.

One should particularly focus on the prayer: "O Allah, You are Forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me" (Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni), as taught by the Mother of Believers, Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her).