We began the holy month of Ramadan with the following sincere prayer: “O Allah, Most Merciful, As Ramadan blesses us with its presence, purify our hearts, accept our fasting, and forgive our sins. Fill our days with patience, our nights with worship, and our hearts with gratitude. Grant us the strength to continue in goodness beyond this month, and let us leave Ramadan better than we entered it. Ameen.”

Oh, with the passing of time, like a fleeting dream, it comes almost as soon as it appears. Our holy month that we waited for with such anticipation and enthusiasm has dwindled down to the last ten days. Let us make the most of these days of spiritual intensity and divine mercy.

As Ramadan 2025 enters its final stretch, Muslims around the world intensify their devotion, seeking the immense rewards that come with the last ten nights. This period, considered the most sacred phase of the holy month, offers a unique opportunity for self-purification, increased worship, and supplication. It is a time when hearts turn earnestly to Allah in hope, gratitude, and repentance.

There is so much significance in the last ten nights of Ramadan. This time holds exceptional value in Islamic tradition. It is during this period that Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Decree) is believed to occur – a night described in the Koran as “better than a thousand months” (Koran, 97:3).

On this night, the fate of individuals for the coming year is decreed, and sincere prayers can change one’s destiny. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) urged believers to seek Laylatul Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten, particularly on the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th night of Ramadan, this is indeed a time of increased worship. It is widely believed that Laylatul Qadr occurs on the 27th night and many strive hard to be in sincere prayer on this night.

Recognising the immense spiritual benefits of these days, Muslims strive to maximise their acts of worship. Our Prophet during this time would exert himself in devotion even more than at any other time of the year.

Many spend the nights in deep prayer, reciting long portions of the Koran and seeking closeness to Allah through tahajjud (late-night prayers) known as Qiyam al-Layl (night prayer).

Since the Koran was revealed during Ramadan, believers use these nights to engage deeply with its message, seeking guidance and understanding with recitation and reflection.

Prophet Muhammad advised making the following dua, especially on Laylatul Qadr: “O Allah, you are most forgiving, and you love forgiveness, so forgive me.”

Some Muslims dedicate these days to seclusion in the masjid, engaging solely in worship and reflection, disconnecting from worldly distractions – this is known as I'tikaf, which, if you like, is akin to a spiritual retreat.

Beyond personal devotion, the last ten days of Ramadan is a time to give generously in charity. Many Muslims pay their zakat al-fitr (obligatory alms before Eid) and increase voluntary donations to those in need. Acts of kindness, feeding the hungry, and supporting charitable causes are strongly emphasised. Charity and acts of kindness cannot be overemphasised during the last ten days of Ramadan.

The last ten nights of Ramadan are not only about intense worship but also about spiritual renewal. It is a time to seek forgiveness, mend relationships, and strengthen one’s connection with Allah.

As the month nears its end, believers reflect on their journey, hoping to carry the discipline, gratitude, and faith cultivated during Ramadan into the rest of the year. There is such joy in spiritual renewal, just like the Earth is now experiencing a renewal, a burst of blooming and beauty that is spring. Well imagine our souls and hearts doing the same!

As the crescent of Eid approaches, Muslims pray to emerge from Ramadan spiritually renewed, forgiven, and closer to their creator. May we all be among those who witness and benefit from Laylatul Qadr.

“O Allah, most merciful and generous, as we enter the last ten days of Ramadan, shower us with your blessings and mercy. Grant us the honour of witnessing Laylatul Qadr and accepting our prayers. Forgive our sins, purify our hearts, and draw us closer to you. Fill our nights with devotion, our days with patience, and our souls with peace. Ameen.”

Bermuda have a blessed week. Let us remember those less fortunate than us. Pray for war and tyranny to cease immediately and let freedom, justice and love flow. Prayer is powerful, so let's continue to pray.

As salaam alaikum (peace be unto you).

• Linda Walia Ming is a member of the Bermuda Hijab Dawah Team, a group of Muslim women who reside in Bermuda and have a goal of educating the community about the religion of Islam