By: Kanwal Malik
By the blessings of Allah SWT, we have approached the last ten days of Ramadan. These special nights are the jewel of the crown since Laylat ul-Qadr (the Night of Power) is found among these nights. According to Aisha RA : "The Prophet PBUH would exert himself in worship during the last ten nights more than at any other time of the year" (Muslim).
Perhaps the best way to single out this night is by keeping in mind that the Prophet PBUH used to say: "Seek out Laylat ul-Qadr in the odd nights during the last ten nights of Ramadan" (Al-Bukhari & Muslim). Furthermore, Ibn Umar stated that Prophet Muhammad PBUH said "Look for it in the last ten nights. If one of you falls weak or unable to do so, then he should at least try on the seven remaining nights" (Muslim).
Laylat al Qadr is a wonderful opportunity to get our sins eradicated since Abu Huraira narrated that the Messenger PBUH said: “Whoever stands (in prayer) in Laylat ul-Qadr while nourishing his faith with self-evaluation, expecting reward from Allah, will have all of his previous sins forgiven. [Bukhari and Muslim).
It is in our best interest to look at the last ten nights as the zenith of Ramadan. During this auspicious time we can recite the Quran, make dua and strive harder to do good deeds. Another way to take advantage of the last ten days is by making a to do list for certain activities. Having a goal in mind for every single night can make worshipping more organized and attainable. These goals can vary from ascertaining that our zakat has been done, feeding the needy, doing dhikr etc.
Abu Huraira, narrated that the Prophet PBUH said: "When the last one third of the night remains, our Lord, the Glorious One, descends towards the lower heaven and proclaims: 'Is there anyone supplicating to Me so that I grant his supplication? Is there anyone begging of Me for anything so that I grant him his wish? Is there anyone who seeks My forgiveness so I forgive him?'" (Bukhari and Muslim). May Allah SWT allow us all to participate in these special nights and reap its benefits to the maximum In sha Allah.