As we enter the final stretch of Ramadan, the last 10 nights offer a unique spiritual opportunity not to be overlooked. These nights are a time for reflection, prayer, and generosity, especially as they hold the possibility of Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Decree, which is described in the Qur'an as being "better than a thousand months" (Qur'an 97:3).
Here are five tips to help you maximise the impact of these blessed nights:
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Intensify Your Worship: During these nights, engage more deeply in Salah and increase your recitation of the Qur'an. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
"Whoever stands (in the voluntary night prayer of) Ramadan with faith and in hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven" (Hadith, Bukhari and Muslim).
Use this time for personal and communal prayers, reflecting on their meanings and seeking closeness to Allah.
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Delve into the Qur'an: Ramadan is the month in which the Qur'an was revealed, making these nights the perfect time to connect with its message. Allah says, "The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion" (Qur'an 2:185). Aim not just to recite but also to ponder the verses, understand their context, and apply their lessons in your life.
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Engage in Dua: The act of making dua is among the most virtuous acts of worship, particularly during the last part of the night. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged this when he said: "Our Lord descends during the last third of each night to the lower heaven, and says: 'Who is calling me, so that I may answer? Who is asking me, so that I may grant him? Who is seeking forgiveness from me, so that I may forgive him?'" (Hadith, Bukhari and Muslim). List down your prayers and ask with hope and sincerity.
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Increase Your Charitable Acts: Giving in charity (Sadaqah) purifies your wealth and soul, and acts of charity are highly rewarded in these nights. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was described as being more generous than the fast wind during Ramadan, particularly in the last ten nights (Hadith, Bukhari). Consider setting up automatic donations for each night to ensure you contribute even on Laylat al-Qadr.
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Seek Extensive Forgiveness: These nights are an optimal time for seeking forgiveness, as Allah's Mercy is overwhelmingly close. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) frequently recited this dua during the last ten nights: "O Allah, You are forgiving, and you love forgiveness, so forgive me" (Hadith, Tirmidhi). Reflect on any transgressions, repent sincerely, and strive to clear your record before Eid.
Bonus Tip – if Possible, Practice I'tikaf: I'tikaf is where one secludes themselves in the mosque to worship and cut off from worldly affairs. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to spend the last ten days and nights of Ramadan in I'tikaf (Hadith, Bukhari and Muslim). If you can, spend these nights in a mosque, immersing yourself in worship and quiet reflection, disconnecting from the distractions of daily life.
By incorporating these practices into your routine during the last ten nights of Ramadan, you embrace a profound opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation and gain. May Allah accept your efforts, forgive your shortcomings, and bless you with a peaceful and rewarding Ramadan, in shaa Allah.
