Better than a thousand months

Better than a thousand months | Daily Tribune

It is almost the end of March. Ramadan started last 2 March and now we are on its last ten sacred final nights. It seems as if Ramadan just began yesterday to mark a month of fasting and strengthen our relationship with Allah. For us Muslims this time is deeply spiritual, but even for non-Muslims this can encourage self-reflection.

Living in our current world filled with distractions, regardless of one’s faith, the last 10 nights of Ramadan tell us to pause and contemplate what is really important. The entire period of Ramadan is very important but the last ten days hold greater significance.

What are these last 10 nights? Why are they significant to us Muslims? Laylatul Qadr or the Night of Power is believed to be one of the odd-numbered nights in the last 10 days of Ramadan. It was when the Qur’an was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by Angel Jibril (Gabriel). The Qur’an says this night is: “Better than a thousand months.” (Qur’an 97:3). But why is this so? This one night can bring blessings and transform lives through kindness, reflection, or devotion. For everyone, it’s a reminder that even a small effort can have a big impact.

These nights tell us that now is the best time for reflection and positive change. Since each moment can ignite transformation, we should not delay. Spiritual reflection and renewal is a universal idea. It is present in many cultures: Lent in Christianity, which likewise involves fasting and self-discipline for spiritual growth; Yom Kippur in Judaism, which focuses on repentance and self-improvement; and, among Buddhists, meditation retreats encourage clarity away from daily distractions.

For us Muslims, the last 10 nights of Ramadan should encourage us to review the past, seek peace and move forward intentionally. Additionally, we are encouraged to do acts of charity, do more duas (prayers) and immerse ourselves in the Qur’an and its meanings. These will all bring us peace and closeness to Allah (God).

The universal meaning of Ramadan allows anyone to engage during this time, whether fasting or not, in the ways to embrace the season’s deeper meaning: (1) Dedicate time for reflection, what are we thankful for, how can we treat others better; (2) Minimize distractions like limiting screen time, focus on prayers, and have meaningful interactions with loved ones; (3) Be kind to everyone. Ramadan emphasizes generosity. Even a small act, like helping someone or donating to charity, makes a difference; (4) Learn from others.

If you know someone observing Ramadan, learn what these nights’ significance are. Learning about different beliefs strengthens understanding and connections.

The last nights of Ramadan extend beyond religious practice, offering wisdom to everyone. Time is precious. Gratitude shifts perspective. Focus on what you have and it will bring peace. Growth starts within. Change is possible with awareness and action.

For us Muslims, in the world we are in now, these nights tell us to pause, reflect, and align with our purpose. It gives us the opportunity to build up our connection with Allah. Though the last 10 nights of Ramadan are sacred in Islam, the message resonates universally — that faith, mindfulness, and appreciation of life remind us that renewal is always possible.

As Ramadan draws to a close, I ask myself, what simple step have I taken to become a better version of myself?