As Ramadan draws close, Muslims worldwide gear up for the most special part of this holy month—the last ten days. This time is important in Islam when believers increase their Ibadah good deeds.
These final days of Ramadan are special, and the spiritual atmosphere is different. Muslims try to make every moment count. People think deeply about their lives and renew their commitment to Islam.
Mosques are busier than ever. Prayers become more heartfelt. Everyone’s excited about the blessings and forgiveness Allah gives during this time.
Many Muslims change their routines. Some take time off work. Others adjust their schedules. They want to focus on worship. They hope to get the most out of these blessed nights.
Why Are The Last 10 Days Of Ramadan Important?
The primary reason for these days’ heightened significance is Laylat al-Qadr or the Night of Power.
This night, one of the odd-numbered nights in the last ten days, marks the first revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad.
The Quran states that this night is more valuable than a thousand months, equivalent to over 83 years.
Key Practices During the Last 10 Days
Increased Prayer
During this period, many Muslims dedicate additional time to prayer. Some engage in late-night prayers or wake for pre-dawn supplications.
Quran Recitation
Muslims often strive to complete reading the Quran during Ramadan, with many making a concerted effort to do so in these final days. Some even aim to read it multiple times.
Charitable Giving
While charity is emphasized throughout Ramadan, many Muslims reserve their most substantial donations for these last days, believing in the multiplied rewards for good deeds during this time.
I’tikaf
Some Muslims practice I’tikaf, where they remain in the mosque for the last ten days, dedicating themselves entirely to worship and minimizing worldly distractions.
Seeking Forgiveness
This period is considered an optimal time for seeking forgiveness from Allah. Many Muslims believe that sincere repentance during this time, especially on Laylat al-Qadr, can result in the forgiveness of past sins.
Supplication (Dua)
Muslims increase their supplications during this time.
Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Power)
While the exact date of Laylat al-Qadr is unknown, it is generally believed to occur on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last ten days of Ramadan (the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th).
Due to this uncertainty, many Muslims treat each of these nights with equal reverence, engaging in extensive worship and good deeds.
A commonly recited dua (supplication) during these nights is:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
“Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni,”
Translation: “O Allah, You are forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me.”
The Essence of Ramadan & The Last Ten Days of Ramadan
The last ten days of Ramadan culminate the month’s religious journey. It’s a period of intensified Ibadah, during which Muslims strive to maximize their worship and good deeds.
As Ramadan ends, the real challenge begins. The goal is to maintain the heightened sense of God-consciousness cultivated during this holy month. The true test lies in continuing the generosity, patience, and kindness practiced throughout Ramadan.
