Shab-e-Qadr, Lailatul Qadr or the Night of Power, was observed with religious gaiety across Jammu and Kashmir on Monday.
According to reports, the biggest congregational prayers were held at Dargah Hazratbal in Srinagar and Khankah-e-Faiz Panah in Chrari Sharief town of central Kashmir’s Budgam district while the historic Jamia Masjid in Nowhatta, which was closed for the last Friday prayers, was also open for devotees.
Massive congregational prayers were also held at shrines of Saeed Yaqoob Sahab (RA) Sonwar, Sayeed Mansoor Sahab (RA), Makhdoom Sahab (RA), Shrine of Gous-ul-Azam Dastgeer (RA) at Khanyar, Khwaja Naqashband Sahab (RA) and other shrines in Kashmir.
Reports said that thousands of devotees offered nightlong prayers at the mosques across Jammu and Kashmir. At many places, local priests, individuals and molvis used public addressing system of mosques to recite Quran and Naath Khani throughout the night.
Officials said that special arrangements have been put in place for the holy night at Dargah Hazratbal and other shrines and Masjids, where a huge rush of devotees was seen.
Besides, the traffic police department also issued traffic advisory for tonight to ensure that the people will not face hardships while travelling to attend special prayers.
The blessed night of Shab-e-Qadr is considered the most important night in the Islamic calendar where Muslims spend the whole night attending the religious gathering and praying all night till dawn. Shab-e-Qadr is observed on the 27th night of Ramadan and as per the Quran, one Shab-e-Qadr is better than 1000 nights.
The importance of Shab-e-Qadr can be understood from the fact that it is mentioned in the Quran in Surah Al-Qadr (The Power) where Allah says: “Indeed, We sent it down during a blessed night. Indeed, We were to warn [mankind]. On that night is made distinct every precise matter.” (Quran, 97:1-4). This highlights the divine significance of this night and its importance for Muslims.
One of the primary reasons why Shab-e-Qadr is so important is because it offers an opportunity for Muslims to seek forgiveness and blessings from Allah. It is believed that on this night, Allah forgives the sins of those who sincerely seek His forgiveness and grants them blessings and mercy.
Therefore, Muslims spend this night in worship, supplication, and contemplation, seeking to connect with Allah and earn His forgiveness. Moreover, Shab-e-Qadr is also significant because it is a night of great spiritual power and blessings.