The Night of Power, Eid, and Life After Ramadan

By Raheema Yasmin

Introduction

As Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims prepare to bid farewell to its spiritual serenity and discipline. This sacred month offers countless opportunities for devotion, reflection, and growth, but its impact extends far beyond its final days.

Before celebrating Eid al-Fitr, two significant events mark the end of Ramadan: Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Decree) and the giving of Sadaqatul Fitr (charity of purification). These moments remind us that Ramadan’s essence should shape our lives long after it ends.

This article explores the holiness of Laylatul Qadr, the duty of Sadaqatul Fitr, the joy of Eid al-Fitr, and how to carry Ramadan’s spiritual lessons into our daily lives.

Laylatul Qadr: The Night of Power

Laylatul Qadr, or the Night of Decree, is the holiest night in Ramadan, believed to be when the Qur’an was first revealed. It is a night of immense mercy and forgiveness, where sincere worship and supplication are said to wipe away past sins and bring countless blessings. This night, which occurs during the last ten nights of Ramadan, is described in the Qur’an:

“The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months” (Surah Al-Qadr, 97:3)

It is the night when:

The Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
The annual decree for the coming year is recorded by Allah ﷻ.
Sincere worshippers are granted forgiveness and mercy.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Whoever stands in prayer on Laylatul Qadr out of faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1901)

Acts of Worship for Laylatul Qadr:

Qiyam al-Layl (Night Prayers): Engage in extended salah, including Tahajjud, seeking Allahs ﷻ mercy and forgiveness.
Dua and Dhikr: The Prophet ﷺ recommended reciting:
“Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni” (O Allah, You are Forgiving, and You love forgiveness, so forgive me (Tirmidhi, 3513).
Sadaqah and Good Deeds: Giving in charity on this night multiplies the reward immensely.

Sadaqatul Fitr: Purifying Charity

Sadaqatul Fitr is a mandatory charity given before Eid al-Fitr to purify the fasts of Ramadan and assist those in need. It ensures that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can partake in the joy and celebration of Eid. This is an obligatory form of charity that serves two primary purposes:

Purifying the fast: It compensates for any mistakes or shortcomings during Ramadan, such as idle talk or minor errors.
Supporting the needy: It ensures that even the less fortunate can partake in the joy of Eid.

Ibn Abbas (RA) reported:

“The Messenger of Allah ﷺ enjoined Zakat al-Fitr as purification for the fasting person from idle talk and obscenities and as food for the poor” (Abu Dawood, 1609)

Key Guidelines for Sadaqatul Fitr:

It is obligatory for every Muslim, including children, before the Eid prayer.
The amount is approximately ½ sa’ of wheat or 1 sa’ of dates, barley or raisins, or its equivalent in cash, which ranges from £5 for wheat, and up to £18 for raisins.
It must be given before the Eid prayer; otherwise, it is considered regular sadaqah, not Zakat al-Fitr.

This small yet impactful charity ensures that everyone can celebrate Eid, regardless of their financial situation.

Eid al-Fitr: The Day of Joy and Gratitude

After a month of fasting, reflection, and worship, Eid al-Fitr is a day of celebration, gratitude, and unity. It is a time to thank Allah ﷻ for granting the strength to complete Ramadan and seek His continued guidance and mercy.

1. The Eid Prayer

On the morning of Eid, Muslims gather in congregation to offer a special prayer. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“The people of Islam will continue to enjoy Eid so long as they establish the Eid prayer” (Ibn Majah, 1750)

Key Sunnahs for Eid:

Performing ghusl before the prayer.
Wearing new or our best clothes.
Reciting Takbeer on the way to the prayer:
“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Wallahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa lillahil hamd”.
Taking different routes to and from the Eid prayer.

2. Gratitude and Celebration

Eid is a day to:

Celebrate with family and friends by sharing meals and exchanging gifts.
Visit the graves of deceased loved ones, making du’a for them.
Express gratitude by thanking Allah ﷻ for the blessings of Ramadan.

The Prophet ﷺ encouraged us to spread joy and happiness on this day, making it a day of festivity for the entire community.

3. Acts of Kindness and Generosity

While Eid is a time of celebration, it is also a time for kindness and compassion, especially toward the less fortunate. Visiting the sick, helping the needy, and sharing food with others reflects the true spirit of Eid.

Life After Ramadan: Carrying the Lessons Forward

As Ramadan comes to an end, the true challenge begins. Maintaining the spiritual growth, discipline, and closeness to Allah ﷻ cultivated during the holy month. Ramadan is not merely a temporary spiritual boost; it is a training ground for lifelong devotion. The essence of a successful Ramadan is reflected in how we continue to live afterward.

1. Continuing the Habit of Fasting

One of the most beneficial practices after Ramadan is to continue voluntary fasting, especially the six days of Shawwal. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“Whoever fasts Ramadan and then follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he fasted for a lifetime” (Sahih Muslim, 1164)

Fasting beyond Ramadan helps:

Strengthen self-discipline and piety.
Maintain the spiritual benefits of the holy month.
Serve as an act of gratitude to Allah for allowing you to complete Ramadan.

2. Preserving the Qur’an Connection

During Ramadan, many Muslims make an extra effort to recite and reflect on the Qur’an. After Ramadan, it is important to maintain this bond by:

Reading and reflecting on the Qur’an daily, even if only a few verses.
Attending or listening to Tafsir classes to deepen understanding.
Memorising and revising surahs regularly.

The Qur’an should remain a constant companion, offering guidance and light throughout the year.

3. Consistent Worship and Good Deeds

Ramadan helps us develop the habit of regular prayer, dhikr, and good deeds. These practices should not diminish afterward. Instead, we should strive to:

Maintain consistency in the five daily prayers and add voluntary prayers.
Increase dhikr by reciting tasbih and seeking forgiveness.
Perform small acts of kindness consistently, as they are beloved to Allah ﷻ:
“The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if they are small”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 6464)

4. Keeping the Spirit of Generosity Alive

The generosity shown during Ramadan should continue afterward. Regularly give to charity, help those in need, and support humanitarian causes. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Charity does not decrease wealth” (Sahih Muslim, 2588)

By continuing acts of sadaqah, we extend the blessings of Ramadan into our daily life.

Conclusion: Embracing the Spirit of Ramadan Beyond Eid

As Ramadan concludes and Eid al-Fitr brings joy and celebration, it is essential to carry the spiritual lessons forward. The true success of Ramadan lies not in its completion but in its lasting impact on our lives.

Let us strive to: