The fasting month of Ramadan is drawing to a close, but before that, Muslims observe the holy 'Night of Power' (Laylat al-Qadr). This night, considered more valuable than a thousand months, is when, according to Islamic tradition, the fates of the coming year are determined. Many believers devote the last ten nights to intense prayers to ensure they do not miss this special time.
In a few days, Ramadan ends worldwide, and Muslims celebrate the sugar festival Eid al-Fitr, expected on Friday, March 20. Before that, however, the fasting month reaches a peak with the 'Night of Power.' This night is the holiest in Islam, as the Prophet Mohammed received the first Koran verses here in the Cave of Hira on Mount al-Nur. The 97th Surah of the Koran describes it as 'better than a thousand months.'
The exact date of Laylat al-Qadr is unknown, making it mysterious. Many Sunni Muslims consider the 27th night of Ramadan the most likely, this year the night from March 16 to 17. To be certain, believers treat the last ten nights as potential 'Nights of Power.' They include studying the Koran, special supplications at home or in the mosque, and the practice of 'I’tikaf,' a spiritual retreat in the house of worship.
According to belief, Allah determines in this night what will happen in the coming year and hands over the fates to the angels. The Surah mentions a countless host of angels, more than pebbles on earth, including the archangel Gabriel, descending to earth.
During the day, many Muslims prepare for Eid al-Fitr with sweets like Maamoul or Baklava. Ramadan ends with the sighting of the new moon crescent (Hilal), ushering in the month of Shawwal. The festival includes a second prayer with a sermon, visits to relatives, shared meals, and gift exchanges. The greeting 'Eid Mubarak!' echoes around the globe.
Many Muslims continue voluntary fasting afterward to preserve the Ramadan spirit. 'Istiqamah,' or steadfastness, means maintaining good habits like empathy and social action developed during the fast. The abstinence is intended to deepen awareness of dependence on God.
