Ramadan is a holy month of fasting and spiritual reflection for Muslims around the world. The last 10 days of Ramadan are considered particularly significant, as they mark the time when the Prophet Muhammad received the first revelations of the Quran from the Angel Gabriel.
These last 10 days are a time of intense spiritual focus, and there are several acts of worship that Muslims can perform during this time to enhance their connection to Allah.
Significance of the last 10 days
The last 10 days of Ramadan are significant for Muslims because they mark the time when the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) received the first revelations of the Quran from the Angel Gabriel. This event, known as the Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr), is considered the most blessed night of the year, and Muslims believe that during this night, the gates of heaven are opened, and Allah’s mercy and forgiveness are even closer.
Because of the importance of this time, many Muslims devote themselves to intense spiritual practices during the last 10 days of Ramadan. This may include observing Itikaf and reciting the Quran. These acts of worship are intended to deepen one’s connection to Allah, seek forgiveness for any wrongs committed, and enhance one’s spiritual growth.
Observing Itikaf, in particular, is a significant act of worship during the last 10 days of Ramadan. It involves secluding oneself in a mosque or other designated space for a period of time, typically the last 10 days of Ramadan, and focusing on prayer, contemplation, and the study of Islamic texts. Itikaf is considered a way of detaching oneself from worldly distractions and devoting oneself entirely to the worship of Allah.
Acts to perform in the last 10 days of Ramadan
- Observing Itikaf: Itikaf is a spiritual retreat that involves
- Secluding oneself in a mosque. Or other designated space for a period of time, typically the last 10 days of Ramadan. During this time, Muslims focus on prayer, contemplation, and the study of Islamic texts.
- Reciting the Quran. Muslims are encouraged to read and recite the Quran throughout Ramadan, but this practice takes on special significance during the last 10 days. Many Muslims aim to complete the entire Quran during this time, reciting a section each day.
- Performing extra prayers. Muslims are encouraged to perform extra prayers during the last 10 days of Ramadan, particularly during the night. The Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr) is believed to occur during one of the odd-numbered nights of the last 10 days, and is considered the most blessed night of the year.
- Giving charity. Ramadan is a time of heightened generosity and charity, and this practice takes on special significance during the last 10 days. Muslims are encouraged to give to the poor and needy, and to donate to charitable causes.
- Seeking forgiveness. Muslims believe that the last 10 days of Ramadan are a time when Allah is especially merciful and forgiving. Many Muslims use this time to reflect on their actions and seek forgiveness for any wrongs they may have committed.
- Making dua. Muslims are encouraged to make dua (supplication) during the last 10 days of Ramadan, particularly during the night. Dua is a way of asking Allah for help, guidance, or blessings, and is considered a powerful act of worship.
- Spreading kindness. Ramadan is a time of increased kindness and compassion towards others, and this practice takes on special significance during the last 10 days. Muslims are encouraged to perform acts of kindness and generosity towards others, such as visiting the sick, helping the needy, and forgiving those who have wronged them.
In summary, the last 10 days of Ramadan are a time of intense spiritual focus and connection with Allah. By observing Itikaf, reciting the Quran, performing extra prayers, giving charity, seeking forgiveness, making dua, and spreading kindness, Muslims can deepen their faith and enhance their connection to the divine.