Lailatul Qadar Can Be Attained Without Knowing Its Signs

Lailatul Qadar is the night on which the Qur’an was revealed. The first verse of Surah al-Qadr explains it: ‘Indeed, We have sent it down on the Night of Majesty (Lailatul Qadar).’ Among the many blessings of Ramadan is that Lailatul Qadar occurs in this month. Allah states in Surah al-Baqarah verse 185: ‘Ramadan is the month in which the Qur’an was revealed as guidance for humanity and clear proofs of guidance and the criterion between right and wrong.’ Neither the Qur’an nor the hadith of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) specify the exact date when Lailatul Qadar occurs. However, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), as narrated by Aisha, is reported to have said, ‘Look for Lailatul Qadar on the odd dates of the last ten nights of Ramadan.’ It is natural for Muslims to seek the honour of Lailatul Qadar, for there is blessing in a moment that is ‘better than a thousand months.’ Consequently, during this holy month of Ramadan, many people are busy seeking signs of Lailatul Qadar. This was addressed by KH Ahmad Bahauddin Nursalim, known as Gus Baha. As reported by NU Online, Gus Baha explained that Islam does not command the community to mark the signs of Lailatul Qadar. In several well-known hadiths, the emphasis is on seeking Lailatul Qadar itself, not its signs. ‘Seek Lailatul Qadar. Why then seek its signs?’ Gus Baha asked rhetorically, as quoted by Republika from NU Online.