Living Quran

Surah Al-Qadr (The Power)

Al-Qadr means 'The Power,' 'The Decree,' or 'The Measure,' referring to the Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr) that the surah describes.

Al-Qadr is the 97th chapter of the Quran, a short surah of 5 ayahs, most commonly classified as Meccan though some scholars consider it Medinan. It centers on the Night of Decree, Laylat al-Qadr, the night on which the Quran began to be sent down. The surah conveys the immense value of this night, describing it as better than a thousand months, an expression of its extraordinary worth and blessing. It relates that the angels and the Spirit descend during it by God's permission for every matter, and that the night is one of peace until the break of dawn. Though brief, Al-Qadr establishes the honored status of this night within the Islamic calendar and is a foundational text for its observance. It links the greatness of the revelation to the greatness of the moment in which it was first given.
Surah number
97
Revelation
Meccan
Ayahs
5
Arabic
القدر

Read Surah Al-Qadr online — full Arabic text with the Pickthall English translation.

Main themes

  • The Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr)
  • The beginning of the Quran's revelation
  • The night better than a thousand months
  • The descent of the angels and the Spirit
  • Peace and blessing until dawn
  • The honor and value of sacred time

Why this surah matters

Al-Qadr is the primary Quranic reference for Laylat al-Qadr, which many Muslims traditionally seek within the last ten nights of Ramadan, especially the odd-numbered nights, through prayer and devotion. Because the night is described as better than a thousand months, it is widely regarded as the most valued night of the year, and this short surah is frequently recited and reflected upon during Ramadan. Its message underscores the sacredness of the moment the revelation began.

Frequently asked questions

Is Surah Al-Qadr Meccan or Medinan?

It is most commonly classified as Meccan, though some scholars hold it to be Medinan; both views appear in traditional scholarship.

What is Laylat al-Qadr?

It is the Night of Decree described in this surah, the night on which the Quran began to be revealed, which the surah calls better than a thousand months.

When do Muslims observe the Night of Decree?

Many Muslims traditionally seek it during the last ten nights of Ramadan, particularly the odd-numbered nights, through extra prayer and worship, though its exact night is not specified with certainty.

Read Surah Al-Qadr

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