I
n Surah Qadr, verse 1, Allah proclaims,
إِنَّآ أَنزَلْنَـٰهُ فِى لَيْلَةِ ٱلْقَدْرِ
Verily, We revealed it during the Night of Decree.
Many of us are familiar with the term Laylatul-Qadr, often translated as the Night of Decree or the Night of Power. However, understanding the true meaning of the word Qadr ٱلْقَدْرِ requires further exploration.
The root ق د ر signifies the process of determining an object’s measure and essence. From this root, we can derive meanings such as importance, respect, and honour, for these could be the conclusions when determining the measure or essence of a thing .
Another signification of the root is predestination, as decrees are events which are determined and measured.
Concerning Laylatul-Qadr, its actual meaning is more profound and all-encompassing than any definition can express.
This becomes evident in the language Allah employs to praise and elevate it in this verse. The opening word إِنَّآ (Indeed We) emphasises its importance and, when combined with a reference to Allah, serves as a form of exaltation.
The next word أَنزَلْنَا (We sent) is also conjugated to refer to Allah, providing further exaltation. The attached pronoun ـهُ (‘it’) is used instead of explicitly stating what has been revealed (the Qur’an), as if to suggest that ‘it is too renowned and esteemed to require mention.
May Allah allow us to attain the blessings of this night. Ameen.