The last ten days of the holy month of Ramadan hold a special and deeply significant place in Islam. For Muslims around the world, these days represent the peak of spiritual devotion, reflection, and intensified worship. During this period, believers strive to draw closer to Allah through prayers, supplications, charity, and acts of righteousness. It is a time filled with hope, forgiveness, and the pursuit of divine mercy.
A Period of Increased Devotion
In Islamic tradition, the final ten days of Ramadan are considered the most sacred days of the month. Muslims are encouraged to increase their acts of worship, including recitation of the Holy Qur’an, voluntary prayers, remembrance of Allah (dhikr), and giving charity.
The Prophet Muhammad was known to intensify his acts of worship during these days more than at any other time in Ramadan. According to Islamic narrations, he would spend the nights in prayer and wake his family members so that they too could partake in the spiritual blessings of the period.
The Search for the Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr)
One of the most important reasons the last ten days of Ramadan are highly revered is because of the presence of Laylatul Qadr, also known as the Night of Power or Night of Decree.
This night is believed to be the night when the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. According to Islamic teachings, Laylatul Qadr is “better than a thousand months,” meaning that acts of worship performed on this night carry immense spiritual rewards.
Although the exact date of Laylatul Qadr is not definitively known, Islamic scholars believe it falls on one of the odd-numbered nights within the last ten days of Ramadan — particularly the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th night. As a result, Muslims devote themselves fully throughout these nights in hopes of witnessing the blessed night.
The Practice of I’tikaf (Spiritual Retreat)
Another significant practice observed during the last ten days is I’tikaf. This involves secluding oneself in a mosque for continuous worship and reflection.
Those who observe I’tikaf dedicate their time exclusively to prayer, reading the Qur’an, and spiritual contemplation. The practice symbolises detachment from worldly distractions and total devotion to Allah. Many Muslims follow this tradition as it was regularly practised by the Prophet Muhammad during the final days of Ramadan.
Seeking Forgiveness and Mercy
The final ten days are also regarded as a special opportunity for Muslims to seek forgiveness from Allah. Believers are encouraged to repent sincerely, ask for mercy, and pray for guidance.
One of the supplications recommended during this period is:
“Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni” — meaning “O Allah, You are Most Forgiving and You love forgiveness, so forgive me.”
This prayer is widely recited by Muslims hoping to receive divine pardon and blessings.
Charity and Good Deeds
During the last ten days, Muslims are also encouraged to increase acts of kindness and charity. Many give additional voluntary charity (Sadaqah) and ensure the payment of Zakat al-Fitr before the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
These acts of generosity help support the less privileged in society and ensure that everyone can partake in the joy of the Eid celebration.
A Time for Reflection and Renewal
Ultimately, the last ten days of Ramadan serve as a spiritual climax of the fasting month. They provide Muslims with the opportunity to reflect on their faith, strengthen their relationship with Allah, and seek a renewed sense of purpose in life.
For millions of Muslims across the world, these sacred days are a time of hope and transformation, a chance to conclude Ramadan with renewed faith, forgiveness, and spiritual fulfilment.
