Reflecting on the Last Phase
As Ramadan reaches its end, many Muslims around the world, including myself, begin to feel a bit regretful—perhaps we weren’t as present or productive as we had hoped. Yet, in His mercy, Allah SW gives us a chance to catch up, especially in the final ten days, a period rich in meaning and opportunity. During this time, we remember the Night of Destiny, known as Laylatu’l Qadr, a night mentioned in Surat Al-Qadr, described as better than a thousand months. I often think of how the Messenger, Muhammad, peace be upon him, and his companions, including his family, would dedicate themselves completely during these nights. This period isn’t just symbolic—it’s the moment to reconnect with our ideal intentions, seeking the rewards promised to the prophets and the devout. I’ve learned over the years that feeling sorry is not a defeat, but a signal to realign. And these nights, for those who grasp them, are more than sacred—they’re transformational.
Masjid Retreat Reflections
During the final ten days of Ramadan, I find myself thinking about how the prophet PMBUH would confine himself to the masjid, leaving behind the distractions of normal days. His dedication to praying and supplicating with deep vigor was unmatched, all to attain the reward of Laylatul Qadr. This sacred tradition of i’tikaaf isn’t just about seclusion; it’s about transformation. It was recorded by Bukhari that Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased) shared how the prophet would spend the last ten days in retreat until he passed away. Following his example, I once joined a full masjid retreat, and though challenging, it shaped my perspective entirely. Through Our Courses, we now offer structured guidance for those wanting to experience i’tikaaf with purpose and clarity.
The reward for I’tikaaf
What keeps me coming back to i’tikaaf during the final ten days of Ramadan isn’t just tradition—it’s the deep reward promised by Allah SW. In an ayah from the aforementioned sahih Muslim hadith, the prophet PMBUH tells us that whoever spends the night prayer on Laylatul Qadr out of faith and hope, their previous sins will be forgiven. That night is described not by its literal number, but through a metaphor: better than a thousand months, so great it’s uncountable. Once, during i’tikaaf, I remember feeling truly inspired by the vigorous supplication around me—people fully observing, seeking that exact day, though it’s hidden for a certain reason. The prophet said he came to inform the people of it, but due to two persons contending, with a devil among them, he was made to forget. Still, we are urged to look for it in the last ten nights—the ninth, seventh, or fifth. This search, this devotion, is what gives i’tikaaf its soul.
What’s the Plan The Final Days of Ramadan?
As the last ten days of Ramadan begin, the prophet PMBUH showed us a clear plan by staying in the Masjid, making it easier to observe the sought-after night of Lailat-ul-Qadr. But for people today, especially those with day jobs, this can be difficult—we leave for work in the morning, then return to try and reconnect. I remember once trying to follow his footsteps, making space in my routine to sleep, eat, and drink in the masjid just as the Messenger of Allah did. As At-Tirmidhi and Aaisha RA narrated, the Prophet would supplicate deeply during these nights, and when asked what to say, he replied: Allahumma, ‘afuwwun, tuhibbul-‘afwa, fa’fu ‘anni—O Most Forgiving, You love forgiveness, so forgive me. In those quiet times, I would recite this supplication, hoping Allah SW would accept it. Through The Islamic Method of Purification, we learn to increase our spiritual focus when it matters most.
Recognizing the Blessed Night
From my personal nights of worship in the final ten days of Ramadan, there are moments when the peace in the skies feels unusual, almost like the world slows down. One prominent sign of Laylatul Qadr, the blessed night, is how clear and quiet the night is, and how the moon, often described by the prophet PMBUH in sahih Muslim as a piece of plate, appears bright and peaceful. The following day is usually fogless, filled with an aura of tranquility, as if Allah is allowing us a glimpse of something sacred. I’ve prayed during those nights with a pure heart, truly seeking and pleasing my Lord, hoping to be among those who are given what they’ve sought after. The Messenger, when asked, would describe such details to help us remember and observe. All thanks to Allah, the world feels different when you’re fully present in worship on that night.