The Best Worship to Do in the Last 10 Nights of Ramadan – Prioritizing Acts of Worship for Maximum Rewards

The last ten nights of Ramadan are of great importance because they include Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power), which is better than a thousand months of worship (Quran 97:3). Since the exact night is unknown, Muslims are encouraged to maximize their worship during these nights. Here's how you can make the most of them.

1. Prioritize Qiyam al-Layl (Night Prayers)

During the last ten nights, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ spent more time in worship than at any other time. He engaged in the Qiyaam-ul-Layl prayers (Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers), which he encouraged believers to do the same.

• Hadith: “Whoever prays on Laylatul Qadr out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Bukhari & Muslim) 

• It is best to perform long and concentrated prayers while reflecting the meaning of the verses of the Quran.

2. Increase in Recitation of the Quran

Ramadan is the month of the Quran, and its last ten nights are its most blessed part. 

• Read the Quran as much as possible, aiming for deep meditation instead of speed.

• Some scholars recommend completing a khatm (full recitation) on these nights if possible.

3. Make Constant and Heartfelt Dua

Dua is one of the most powerful acts of worship during these nights. Aisha (RA) asked the Prophet ﷺ what dua to recite, and he taught her:

‎“اللهم إنك عفو تحب العفو فاعف عني”

“O Allah, You are Most Forgiving, and You love forgiveness, so forgive me.” (Tirmidhi)

• Make dua in your own language, sincerely asking for forgiveness, guidance, and blessings. 

• List your goals and desires, and ask Allah to grant them.

4. Engage in Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)

• Repeat phrases like Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar, and La ilaha illallah continuously.

• Send blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ frequently.

5. Give Charity and Perform Good Deeds

• The Prophet ﷺ was the most generous, especially in the last ten nights. 

• Try to give charity every night to ensure that you give during Laylatul Qadr. Even a small amount daily will be very rewarding.

6. Perform I’tikaf (Seclusion in the Mosque)

• The Prophet ﷺ used to stay alone in the mosque during the last ten days and concentrate completely on worship (Bukhari & Muslim). 

• If it is not possible to do full I'tikaf, spend a few nights or a few hours in deep worship.

7. Seek Laylat al-Qadr on the Odd Nights

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Seek Laylat al-Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten nights of Ramadan.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

• The 27th night is usually believed to be Laylatul Qadr, but it can be any of the odd nights (21, 23, 25, 27, or 29). 

• It is better to strive for all ten nights rather than limiting worship to just one night.

8. Repent Sincerely and Renew Intentions

• Ramadan is a time of repentance. Seek forgiveness for past sins and resolve to improve your life. 

• Renew your intentions for the rest of the year and make sure you continue your good habits after Ramadan.

Conclusion

The last ten nights are a golden opportunity for great rewards. By focusing on prayer, recitation of the Quran, dua, charity, and dhikr, we can hope to catch Laylatul Qadr and reap blessings throughout our lives. Let’s strive to make these nights truly transformative.

May Allah grant us the ability to worship sincerely and accept our deeds. Ameen.