Millions of Muslims all around the world are observing Ramadan and are readying for what is considered to be one of holiest nights in the Islamic calendar, Laylatul Qadr, or the Night of Power.
During the month of Ramadan, which this year started on 23 March, Muslims must abstain from food and other activities, such as sex and gossiping, from sunrise to sunset.
Fasting and abstaining from sensory pleasures is believed to help one grow closer to God.
It is also seen as a path towards redemption, while a dinner (Iftar) with family and friends at the end of the daily fast is meant to strengthen community spirit.
Ramadan also aims to make people more sympathetic towards those in need.
At the end of the month Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, with festivities lasting up to three days.
But before that comes one of the holiest days in the Muslims calendar – Laylatul Qadr, also written Laylat al-Qadr or Lailatul-Qadr.
Here’s everything you need to know about it.
When is Laylatul Qadr 2023?
Laylatul Qadr, or Night of Power or the Night of Decree, takes place during the final 10 days of Ramadan.
While Ramadan commemorates the month Allah revealed to the prophet Muhammad the contents of the Quran, Islam’s holy book, Laylatul Qadr marks the exact night on which the revelation is thought to have happened.
Ramadan is divided up into three 10-day splits, known as Ashras. Ashra means 10 in Arabic.
According to Islamic teaching, Allah first revealed the opening verses of the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad on one of the odd-numbered nights of the last 10 nights of Ramadan.
It is unknown exactly which, but many Muslims choose to mark Laylatul Qadr on the 27th night of Ramadan.
In the UK, Laylatul Qadr would therefore start on the evening of 17 April this year, with Ramadan due to end on 21 April.
What happens on the Night of Power?
It is believed that one will be greatly rewarded for doing good deeds on such a holy night, with one act of kindness bringing the blessings of 1,000 months.
On Laylatul Qadr, many Muslims decide to give up their sleep so they can pray to Allah and carry out good deeds, a combination believed to redeem one of all their past sins.
People are also encouraged to study the Quran on the Night of Power as understanding the teachings of the sacred text could also be rewarded with blessings of 1,000 months.
Muslims also have a duty to pray for those who are in need and help them as much as they can.
Many Muslims see Laylatul Qadr as the perfect opportunity to make their zakat, a donation of food or money to help those who are struggling, according to Muslim Aid.
