The New Nation - Internet Edition

Majority Islamic scholars are of the opinion that the Holy Lailatul Qadar or Shab-e-Qadar is the 27th night of Holy Ramzan, the night after the 26th Ramzan. According to some others, the night may be anyone of the uneven nights after the 20th Ramzan as 21st, 23rd, 25th or 27th. However, Razman being the best month, the Lailatul Qadar is the best night as the Holy Quran, guide to mankind, was revealed on this night. The relevant verse of the Holy Quran: "We have revealed this (Message) in the night of power and what will explain to thee what the night of power is? The night of power is better than a thousand months." (97:1-3)

The merit of Lailatul Qadar (the night of power) thus stands supreme as the Quran was revealed in the night of power and it is 'better than a thousand months.'

Such a graceful night is at our door. According to the Quran, it is also 'Lailatum-Mubarakah' or 'the night of honour': "Surely we revealed it on a blessed night-indeed we are ever warning."(44.3)

The Shab-e-Qadar embraces Divine Injunctions of the Quran and its Messenger for mankind and the universe.

According to Imam Ahmad bin Hambal (R), a Hadith narrated by Ibne Umar (RA) claimed that Rasulullah (Sm) said: Whoever seeks the night, let him seek it on the 27th." The Messenger of Allah said."He who spends the Lailatul Qadar through prayers in full faith, shall have all his previous sins and faults forgiven."

Rasulullah (Sm) said, "Pray this in the night of Qadar: O Allah, you are Forgiving, you love forgiveness. So, forgive me."

The Holy Lailatul Qadar or Shab-e-Qadar is in our midst before we go to celebrate the Holy Eid-ul-Fitr. In this festive and sublime occasion, the people should engage themselves to seek the bounties and mercy of Allah. This night should be passed in prayer, supplication, tilawat, zikr-azkar, durud-salam, charity and praying for the departed souls.

We should take pledge to establish the Quranic principles in our lives to build the society in the light of Islam and thus ensure peace and prosperity.

-Abdul Muqit Chowdhury