The last ten nights of Ramadan are a deeply spiritual time for Muslims. These nights are especially significant because of the potential of Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree), a night that holds immense blessings and rewards.

During these nights, Muslims focus on increasing their acts of worship, and one key practice is Istighfar — seeking forgiveness from Allah.

What is Istighfar?

Istighfar is the act of asking Allah for forgiveness. The Arabic word "Istighfar" literally means “asking for forgiveness,” and it’s a way to purify our hearts and seek Allah's mercy. We all make mistakes, and Istighfar serves as a means to cleanse ourselves spiritually, seeking Allah’s forgiveness for our sins, whether they are major or minor.

Though Istighfar is important at any time of the year, it holds extra significance during the last ten nights of Ramadan. Let’s explore why this time is so important and why increasing your Istighfar is essential.

Why the Last Ten Nights of Ramadan?

The last ten nights of Ramadan are unique in that they are the nights in which Laylat al-Qadr may fall. Allah says in the Qur’an in Surah Al-Qadr (97:1-3):

"Indeed, We sent the Qur'an down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months."

This night is better than a thousand months, meaning that any worship and good deeds performed on this night are multiplied in reward. It is a night when Allah’s mercy, blessings, and forgiveness are abundant.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
"Whoever stands in prayer during Laylat al-Qadr with faith and hope in Allah’s mercy will have all their past sins forgiven." (Sahih Bukhari 2014)

Therefore, the last ten nights of Ramadan are a time when Muslims strive to maximize their acts of worship, and Istighfar becomes even more important. It is a chance to purify ourselves and seek Allah’s forgiveness for our shortcomings.

These nights are an opportunity to ask Allah for everything we need — for our sins to be forgiven, for our prayers to be answered, and for our destiny to be changed.

Laylat al-Qadr: A Night That Can Change Your Destiny

Laylat al-Qadr is a night of immense importance. The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught his companions to seek this night during the last ten nights of Ramadan, specifically on the odd-numbered nights: the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th.

Why is Laylat al-Qadr so special?

1. It’s a Night of Forgiveness: One of the most significant aspects of Laylat al-Qadr is the opportunity to receive Allah’s forgiveness. If you ask for forgiveness during this night with sincerity, Allah will forgive your past sins.

2. It’s a Night of Peace: Allah sends peace and blessings to the earth during Laylat al-Qadr. The Qur’an mentions that during this night, "the angels and the Spirit [Jibril] descend with the permission of their Lord" (Surah Al-Qadr, 97:4). It’s a night filled with mercy and tranquility.

3. It’s a Night of Decree: Laylat al-Qadr is also the night on which the decrees for the coming year are made. This means that everything from your provision to your fate in the upcoming year is determined. It’s a powerful opportunity to pray for a better future and to ask for Allah’s mercy in shaping your life.

The Importance of Istighfar During the Last Ten Nights

As we approach these blessed nights, it’s important to increase our acts of worship, and Istighfar should be at the forefront of our efforts.

1. Purification of the Heart:
Istighfar is a means of purifying our hearts and souls. It helps to remove the impurities of sins and renews our connection with Allah. Our sins can weigh down on us, and Istighfar is a means to lift that burden and start anew.

2. Seeking Allah’s Mercy:
The last ten nights are filled with mercy from Allah, especially on Laylat al-Qadr. By making Istighfar, we are asking Allah to forgive our sins and grant us His mercy. It is a time when Allah is more likely to forgive us because He is so generous in His mercy during these nights.

3. A Path to Paradise:
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Whoever seeks forgiveness with sincerity, Allah will forgive them." (Sunan Ibn Majah). Asking for forgiveness during these blessed nights increases our chances of being granted a place in Paradise, as we turn to Allah with humility and repentance.

4. Strengthening Our Faith:
The act of Istighfar reminds us of our weakness and dependence on Allah. It humbles us and increases our awareness of our need for His help and guidance. The more we engage in Istighfar, the more we draw closer to Allah.

How to Increase Your Istighfar During the Last Ten Nights

To make the most of these last ten nights, here are some practical tips on how to increase your Istighfar:

1. Set a Goal to Repeat Istighfar Frequently:
A simple but powerful way to make Istighfar a part of your daily routine is to set a goal. For example, aim to say "Astaghfirullah" (I seek forgiveness from Allah) 100 times after each prayer or before bed.

2. Be Sincere in Your Repentance:
Don’t just recite Istighfar mechanically. Take a moment to reflect on your actions, acknowledge your mistakes, and sincerely repent to Allah. This act of reflection makes your Istighfar more meaningful.

3. Make Dua Along with Istighfar:
While asking for forgiveness, make supplications (duas) for your loved ones, for the ummah, and for your own personal needs. The last ten nights are a perfect time to ask Allah to bless your family, to forgive you, and to grant you success in this world and the next.

4. Increase Your Worship on the Odd-Nights:
While Laylat al-Qadr could fall on any of the last ten nights, it is most likely to occur on one of the odd-numbered nights. Dedicate extra time to worship on these nights — pray more, read more Qur'an, and do more Istighfar, as these actions will increase your chances of witnessing the blessings of Laylat al-Qadr.

A Chance to Change Your Destiny

The last ten nights of Ramadan are a golden opportunity to turn towards Allah and seek His forgiveness. The power of Istighfar during this time cannot be overstated — it’s a way to purify your soul, earn Allah’s mercy, and seek blessings for the upcoming year.

The night of Laylat al-Qadr is a night that can change the course of your life, and performing Istighfar during this time increases your chances of receiving Allah’s forgiveness and mercy. Make the most of these blessed nights by increasing your Istighfar and sincerely seeking Allah’s guidance.