Laylat al-Qadr – The Night of Muslim Unity

Okaz, Saudi Arabia, April 21

Undoubtedly, the divisions that exist within the Muslim world aren’t new. They’ve been around for many years and are emblematic of other religions as well. However, Islam is a religion based on brotherhood. Islamic teachings and practices often revolve around the idea that all Muslims, regardless of creed, stream, or nationality, should come together as one. This is even reflected in the fifth pillar of Islam, the Hajj, which calls on Muslims to gather in Mecca and worship as one – regardless of their language, ethnicity, or nationality. The other occasion during which all Muslims become equal is Laylat al-Qadr: the night when the Quran was first sent down from heaven to the world. Therefore, whoever says that unity is impossible and difficult to achieve should remind themselves of how a single can bring together millions of worshippers from across the world to stand together as one. Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Decree, is an occasion that unifies all Muslims around the world. It’s an opportunity to spread awareness of the Holy Quran and the fact that all Muslims should demonstrate peace, mercy, and tolerance towards one another. It’s a night from which light, guidance, and goodness glow. It is an event that symbolizes our common fate and the fact that every Muslim can repent for his sins, ask for forgiveness, and make supplications. –Muhammad Ali Al-Hussaini (translated by Asaf Zilberfarb)