As the blessed month of Ramadan draws to a close, we find ourselves approaching the most sacred and spiritually charged period of this holy month: the last ten days. 

These final ten days are a time of immense opportunity, a chance for believers to seek forgiveness, draw closer to Allah, and reap the abundant blessings of Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree) – a night that is better than a thousand months. It is a night of unmatched significance and importance, a night when the heavens open wide and the angels descend to earth, carrying with them the divine decree for the coming year.

It was during these last ten days that the Prophet ﷺ would ‘tighten his belt’ and engage in intensified acts of worship, secluding himself in the mosque and devoting himself entirely to prayer, reflection, and supplication. His companions, inspired by his example, would follow suit, striving to emulate his devotion and commitment to righteousness. As the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “Whoever stands in prayer during the Night of Decree, with faith and expecting reward, will have all of his previous sins forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari)

So how can we best prepare for and attain the blessings of the last ten days of Ramadan?

In todays blog post, we will explore how to prepare for and make the most of these precious days, drawing inspiration from the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the practices of the Sahabah and Sahabiyat.

Setting Intentions: Just as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ would engage in increased acts of worship during the last ten days of Ramadan, we too should approach this period with a renewed sense of purpose and intention. Before the start of these blessed days, take a moment to reflect on your goals and aspirations for the remainder of Ramadan. Make a sincere intention and commitment to seek Allah’s forgiveness, to increase in acts of worship, and to strive for spiritual growth.

Engaging in Extra Worship: The last ten days of Ramadan are a time for heightened devotion and worship. Follow the example of the Prophet Muhammadﷺ by increasing your recitation of the Quran, performing extra prayers (such as Tahajjud), and making frequent supplications (dua) to Allah. The Prophet ﷺ would seclude himself in the mosque during this time, dedicating himself fully to worship and reflection. While not all of us may have the ability to seclude ourselves in the mosque, we can still strive to create a conducive environment for worship in our homes.

Seeking Laylat al-Qadr: Among the last ten nights of Ramadan lies Laylat al-Qadr, a night that is better than a thousand months. The exact date of Laylat al-Qadr is unknown, but it is most commonly believed to fall on one of the odd-numbered nights of the last ten days. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ would actively seek Laylat al-Qadr through increased devotion and worship during these nights. Follow his example by spending these nights in worship, seeking Allah’s mercy and forgiveness, and making heartfelt supplications.

Giving in Charity: Follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his companions by increasing your acts of charity during the last ten days of Ramadan. Give generously to those in need, and strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others by giving generously in charity during the last ten days of Ramadan. Whether it’s donating to a worthy cause, helping those in need within your community, or simply offering a kind word or gesture to someone in distress, strive to embody the spirit of giving and compassion that characterized the companions of the Prophet ﷺ.

Reflect and Repent: Take time during the last ten days of Ramadan to reflect on your blessings and spiritual journey so far and express gratitude to Allah for His countless favors upon you. Likewise, reflect on your shortcomings and seek forgiveness for your sins and transgressions. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ would engage in intense acts of repentance and seeking forgiveness during this time, setting an example for us to follow.

To further help you make the most of this special time, I’ve compiled a list of invaluable tools and tips that will guide you on your journey of spiritual growth and self discovery. 

1. Nightly Schedule Planner: Create a structured plan for your worship during the last ten days of Ramadan. Allocate specific times for prayer, dhikr, and Quranic recitation, ensuring that you make the most of every precious moment. If you don’t have a plan, you can download my Ultimate Ramadan Planner (4th Edition), which includes a Tahajjud and Laylatul Qadr planner and dua checklist. This planner will help you organize your nightly worship routine, ensuring that you make the most of every precious moment during this sacred time. By setting aside dedicated time for Tahajjud prayers and making heartfelt supplications, you can create a meaningful and transformative Ramadan experience.
2. Dua and Supplication Guide: As you immerse yourself in worship during the last ten days of Ramadan, let the words of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ guide you. Download my Muslim Daily Prayer Handbook, which contains authentic adhkars and supplications to use during Ramadan. From the eloquent words of the Prophet himself, this guide will enrich your spiritual practice and deepen your connection with Allah.
3. Quran Reading Plan: Dive into the divine wisdom of the Quran during the last ten days of Ramadan by following a structured reading plan. Break down the Quran into manageable portions to be read each night, and reflect on its timeless teachings and guidance. Let the Quran be your companion on this journey of self-discovery and spiritual renewal. Also, ensure you recite Surah Al Ikhlās 3x (at least once) as you will be granted the reward of a person who recited the entire Quran.  
4. Journaling Prompts: Reflect on your spiritual journey during the last ten days of Ramadan with the help of journaling prompts. Explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and deepen your understanding of yourself and your faith. Once again, my Ramadan digital planner has 30 spiritual and soul searching journaling prompts you can utilise as tool for self-discovery and growth, allowing your reflections to guide you on your path towards spiritual fulfilment.
5. Healthy Habits Checklist: Prioritize your physical and mental well-being during the last ten days of Ramadan with a healthy habits checklist. Stay hydrated, eat nutritious meals, get adequate rest, and manage stress to ensure you have the energy and stamina to engage in worship and reflection during the night. Remember, taking care of your body is an essential part of worshiping Allah.
6. Accountability Partners: Find an accountability partner or group to share your goals and progress during the last ten days of Ramadan. Support and motivate each other as you strive to make the most of this sacred time, and hold each other accountable to your commitments and intentions.
7. Gratitude Journal: Cultivate a mindset of gratitude during the last ten days of Ramadan by keeping a gratitude journal. Write down three things you are grateful for each night, focusing on the blessings and favors of Allah in your life. Let gratitude fill your heart and soul, bringing you closer to Allah and enhancing your spiritual experience. Remember Allah’s promise in the Quran – if we remain grateful He will certainly increase us; how gracious and merciful is our Lord!

As we embark on this spiritual journey through the last ten days of Ramadan, let us do so with humility, devotion, and a steadfast commitment to righteousness. Let us seize this golden opportunity to draw closer to Allah and to attain His mercy and blessings. May Allah grant us the strength, wisdom, and guidance to make the most of the last ten days of Ramadan, and may He shower His mercy and blessings upon us all.