WASTE NOT YOUR TIME

 FAJR REMINDER: WASTE NOT YOUR TIME!

By: Umm Affān

Ramaḍān 22, 1447 (11-March-2026)

Without a doubt, the finest guidance is that which comes from Allāh and His Prophet, while the most detrimental matters are those innovations that have been introduced into Islām. A’ishah (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anha) narrated: “When the last ten nights of Ramaḍān arrived, the Prophet (ﷺ) would tighten his belt, spend the night in worship, and awaken his family.” [Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 2024, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 1174] This indicates that during the concluding ten nights of Ramaḍān, the Prophet (ﷺ) would engage more intensely in worship than at other times. This is the best of mankind. He stands as the ultimate model for anyone aiming for success.

It is indeed unfortunate to see invitations encouraging participation in Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Decree) celebration. In reality, it is disheartening that people now commemorate Nahārul-Qadr (the Day of Decree) – a term and practice that were unknown to the Prophet (ﷺ), his companions, and our esteemed predecessors. This underscores the ignorance and arrogance prevalent among certain individuals regarding Islām.

Understand that Laylatul Qadr is not a time to wine and dine. Some even engage in singing and dancing during what they call Laylatul Qadr. Such behavior is a misuse of time. Does anyone know what night it is? Thus, designating a specific night (within the final ten nights of Ramaḍān) as Laylatul Qadr might lead to misguidance.

According to some narrations, this special night usually falls on the odd-numbered nights (e.g., 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, 29th). While numerous scholars suggest that the 27th night is the most probable, it is not assured that it will consistently occur on this night each year. The reality is that the timing shifts annually, meaning it could be on the 21st one year and a different night on another. This variation encourages us to increase our acts of worship, particularly Qiyām al-Layl, Dhikr, and Du'ā', during the entire final ten nights.

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymīn (Raḥimahullāh) stated: “The wisdom behind its moving is that if it was on a particular night, the lazy would not stand in prayer except on that night, but if it moves and every night could be Laylatul Qadr, then people will stand in prayer on all ten nights. Part of the wisdom behind that is to test who is serious about seeking it and who is lazy in that regard.” [Ash-Sharḥ al-Mumti‘, 6/492]

What is most beneficial for each family is to rise during all the last ten nights and perform acts of worship to the best of their ability. Utilize your time wisely and avoid squandering it on gatherings of innovation or trivial activities that may lead you away from the spiritual gains of this sacred night. Anas Ibn Mālik related: The Messenger of Allāh (ﷺ) would declare at the beginning of Ramaḍān: “Verily, this month has presented itself to you. There is a night therein that is better than a thousand months. Whoever is deprived of it has been deprived of all good. None is deprived of its good but he is truly deprived.” [Sunan Ibn Mājah 1644] 

Time holds great value right now, so please manage it judiciously. Keep in mind that any deed that is not part of this Dīn (Islām) will be dismissed. 

I beseech Allāh to include us among those who will experience the grace of Laylatul-Qadr and receive full forgiveness. Aameen.