How to Pronounce Laylat al-Qadr

Meaning and Context

Laylat al-Qadr, universally revered as the Night of Power, Night of Decree, or Night of Destiny, represents the pinnacle of spiritual significance in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the momentous event, believed to have occurred on one of the final odd-numbered nights of Ramadan, when the first verses of the Holy Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through the Angel Gabriel (Jibril). This night is described in the Quran itself, in Surah Al-Qadr, as being "better than a thousand months," emphasizing its unparalleled value for worship and divine mercy. Consequently, devout Muslims engage in profound acts of Ibadah (worship), including extended Qiyam al-Layl (night prayers), fervent dua (supplication), intensive Quran recitation, and silent dhikr (remembrance of Allah). The exact date is deliberately concealed, encouraging believers to seek it with heightened devotion throughout the last ten nights of Ramadan, particularly on the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th nights, with many traditions strongly emphasizing the 27th of Ramadan. Observance is characterized by spiritual retreat (I'tikaf), seeking forgiveness (Maghfirah), and praying for one's destiny (Qadar) to be positively decreed for the coming year.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The primary term, "Laylat al-Qadr," is a transliteration from Arabic (لیلة القدر) and has several accepted English spellings. The most common and direct transliteration is "Laylat al-Qadr," but "Laylatul Qadr" (connecting the words with "ul," representing the Arabic definite article) is also widely used and correct. Alternative renderings include "Lailat al-Qadr" or "Leilat al-Qader," though these are less frequent. Common misspellings and typos often arise from phonetic guesses or keyboard errors, such as "Laylat al-Qadar," "Laylatul Qadar," "Laylat al-Qadr," "Lailatul Qadr," or even "Laylat al-Qadr." The word "Qadr" is sometimes mistakenly spelled as "Qadar"; while related, "Qadr" in this context specifically means "decree," "value," or "measure," whereas "Qadar" more broadly refers to divine destiny. Another frequent error is the omission of the hyphen in "Night of Power," leading to the incorrect "Night of Power." It is also important to capitalize the term appropriately, as it is a proper noun referring to a specific holy night.

Example Sentences

Many Muslims increase their devotion during the last ten nights of Ramadan, hoping to witness the blessings of Laylat al-Qadr.

After the Taraweeh prayers, the congregation remained in the mosque for Qiyam, striving to catch the Night of Decree through sincere supplication and Quranic recitation.

Scholars often advise that the most likely night for Laylatul Qadr is the 27th of Ramadan, but the wisdom in its exact date being hidden is to encourage sustained worship.

She made a special dua for her family's health and guidance, believing that prayers offered on the Night of Power are especially accepted.

The atmosphere in the city was one of profound tranquility as believers spent Laylat al-Qadr in prayer and reflection, seeking forgiveness and a favorable decree for the year ahead.

To prepare for this sacred night, he completed a recitation of the entire Quran and planned to perform Tahajjud prayer in the latter part of the night.

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