The last ten days of Ramadan hold immense significance for Muslims worldwide. These are the most blessed days of the holy month, marked by increased worship, seeking forgiveness, and the pursuit of Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Decree). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) dedicated himself to intense devotion during these final days, setting an example for believers to maximize their spiritual efforts. In this article, we will explore the best ways to make the most of the last ten days of Ramadan and strengthen our connection with Allah.
The Importance of the Last Ten Days
The final ten days of Ramadan are an opportunity to seek Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and blessings. The Quran describes this period as the time when Laylatul Qadr occurs:
“Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” (Quran 97:1-3)
Since Laylatul Qadr is better than a thousand months (equivalent to over 83 years of worship), these ten days offer an unparalleled opportunity to accumulate immense rewards.
How to Make the Best Out of the Last Ten Days of Ramadan
Engage in More Acts of Worship (Ibadah)
During these days, increase your acts of worship to draw closer to Allah. Some recommended actions include:
- Extra Prayers (Nafl Salah): Perform additional voluntary prayers such as Tahajjud and Salat al-Tasbih.
- Recitation of the Quran: Spend time reading and reflecting upon the Quran, as Ramadan is the month of the Quran.
- Making Du’a: Ask Allah for His mercy, forgiveness, and guidance. The Prophet (peace be upon him) advised us to recite:
“Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun, tuhibbul-‘afwa, fa’fu ‘anni” (O Allah, You are Forgiving, and You love forgiveness, so forgive me). (Tirmidhi 3513)
Observe I’tikaf (Spiritual Retreat)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to observe I’tikaf during the last ten days of Ramadan. I’tikaf is a spiritual retreat where a person stays in the mosque, dedicating themselves to worship and avoiding worldly distractions.
- If possible, spend the last ten days in I’tikaf to maximize your devotion.
- For those unable to do full I’tikaf, even spending a night or a few days can bring great rewards.
Seek Laylatul Qadr
The exact date of Laylatul Qadr is unknown, but it is believed to fall on one of the odd nights (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th) of the last ten days. To ensure you do not miss this blessed night:
- Increase your prayers, supplications, and Quran recitation every night.
- Engage in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and seek His forgiveness.
- Give charity and perform good deeds, as the rewards are multiplied exponentially.
Give in Charity (Sadaqah and Zakat)
The last ten days of Ramadan are a perfect time to give in charity. The rewards for charitable acts during Ramadan are multiplied many times over.
- Donate to the needy, support Islamic institutions, or help those in distress.
- Arrange for Iftar meals for fasting people, as this brings great rewards.
Strengthen Family Bonds and Spread Kindness
Islam emphasizes kindness and maintaining good relations with family. Use this time to:
- Mend broken relationships and forgive others.
- Spend quality time with family, teaching and reminding one another about the importance of these days.
- Encourage children and loved ones to increase their acts of worship.
Repent Sincerely (Tawbah)
Ramadan is the best time to seek Allah’s forgiveness. The doors of mercy are wide open, and sincere repentance can erase past sins.
- Reflect on your past mistakes and make a sincere intention to change.
- Ask Allah for forgiveness with humility and sincerity.
- Make a commitment to improve and remain steadfast after Ramadan.
Plan for Post-Ramadan Consistency
One of the best ways to make the most of the last ten days of Ramadan is to create a plan for maintaining good habits after Ramadan.
- Set goals for continued Quran recitation and prayer.
- Make a habit of regular charity and good deeds.
- Maintain the spiritual momentum beyond Ramadan.
Conclusion
The last ten days of Ramadan are a golden opportunity for Muslims to elevate their spirituality and seek Allah’s mercy. Through increased prayer, sincere repentance, charity, and seeking Laylatul Qadr, we can maximize our rewards and strengthen our faith. Let us follow the example of the Prophet (peace be upon him) and dedicate ourselves to worship and self-improvement during this blessed time.
May Allah accept our efforts, forgive our sins, and grant us the immense rewards of Laylatul Qadr. Ameen.
