How the Quran Was Revealed on Laylatul Qadr (Surah Al-Qadr)

Introduction

Laylatul Qadr, also known as the Night of Power, is one of the most sacred nights in the Islamic calendar. It is the night on which the Holy Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Allah has honored this night in Surah Al-Qadr (97:1–5), emphasizing its immense blessings and divine significance. This blog post will explore the revelation of the Quran on Laylatul Qadr, its importance, and how Muslims can benefit from this blessed night.

The Revelation of the Quran on Laylatul Qadr

The Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) over a period of 23 years, but the process began on Laylatul Qadr. Allah says in Surah Al-Qadr (97:1):

"Indeed, We sent the Quran down during the Night of Decree." (Surah Al-Qadr: 1)

According to Islamic scholars, the Quran was revealed in two stages:

1. From the Preserved Tablet (Lawh al-Mahfuz) to Bayt al-'Izzah: On Laylatul Qadr, the entire Quran was sent down from the Preserved Tablet (Lawh al-Mahfuz) to the Bayt al-‘Izzah (House of Honor) in the lowest heaven.
2. Gradual Revelation to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)  From the lowest heaven, the Quran was revealed gradually over 23 years through Angel Jibreel (Gabriel), starting with the first five verses of Surah Al-‘Alaq (96:1–5).

The Importance of Laylatul Qadr in the Quran

Allah describes Laylatul Qadr as a night of immense blessings and mercy. The entire Surah Al-Qadr highlights its significance:

"Indeed, We sent the Quran down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit [Jibreel] descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn." (Surah Al-Qadr: 1-5)

Key Lessons from Surah Al-Qadr

1. The Quran is a Divine Revelation.  It was revealed on the most sacred night, showing its importance as the final message for humanity.
2. Laylatul Qadr is better than a thousand months of worship, and prayers during this night are more rewarding than 83 years of worship.
3. Angels Descend with Divine Decrees—Angels, led by Jibreel (AS), descend with blessings and mercy.
4. A Night of Peace and Forgiveness: This night is filled with tranquility and divine forgiveness.

The First Revelation to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

The first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the Cave of Hira on Laylatul Qadr. The angel Jibreel (Gabriel) came to him and commanded him to read:

"Read in the name of your Lord who created. Created man from a clot. Read! And your Lord is the Most Generous—Who taught by the pen—Taught man that which he knew not." (Surah Al-‘Alaq 96:1-5)

This moment marked the beginning of prophethood and the start of the final divine revelation.

How to Seek Laylatul Qadr

Laylatul Qadr occurs in the last ten nights of Ramadan, specifically on the odd nights (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th). The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged believers to seek it and engage in acts of worship.

Acts of Worship on Laylatul Qadr

1. Reciting the Quran: Since the Quran was revealed on this night, reciting it brings immense rewards.

2. Praying Tahajjud & Qiyam-ul-Layl: The Prophet (PBUH) would spend the last ten nights of Ramadan in prayer.

3. Making Dua (Supplication): The Prophet (PBUH) taught a special dua for Laylatul Qadr:

   اللهم إنك عفو تحب العفو فاعف عني "O Allah, You are Most Forgiving, and You love to forgive, so forgive me."

4. Seeking Forgiveness & Repentance: Sincere repentance on this night leads to Allah’s mercy.

5. Giving Charity (Sadaqah): Helping those in need increases one’s blessings.

Hadiths About Laylatul Qadr & Quran

Several hadiths highlight the virtues of Laylatul Qadr and the revelation of the Quran:

• Abu Huraira (RA) narrated: The Prophet (PBUH) said:

  "Whoever prays on Laylatul Qadr out of sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, all his past sins will be forgiven." (Bukhari, Muslim)

• Aisha (RA) asked the Prophet (PBUH):

  "O Messenger of Allah! If I find Laylatul Qadr, what should I say?" He replied, "Say: اللهم إنك عفو تحب العفو فاعف عني." (Tirmidhi)

Conclusion

The revelation of the Quran on Laylatul Qadr is a reminder of its divine origin and immense blessings. This sacred night, hidden in the last ten nights of Ramadan, provides an opportunity for believers to seek Allah’s mercy and guidance. Engaging in prayers, dua, and Quranic recitation on this night brings rewards greater than a thousand months. As we approach this blessed occasion, let us strive to strengthen our connection with the Quran and embrace its teachings in our daily lives.

Key Takeaways:

• The Quran was first revealed on Laylatul Qadr.
• Worship on this night is better than 1,000 months.
• It falls within the last ten nights of Ramadan.
• Dua, prayer, and reciting the Quran are highly recommended.
• It is a night of mercy, peace, and divine decree.

May Allah grant us the ability to witness Laylatul Qadr and benefit from its countless blessings. Amen!

Laylatul Qadr

Revelation of the Quran

Surah Al-Qadr

The Night of Power

Quran revelation nigh