Muslims around the world are preparing to observe Laylat al-Barat, also known as the Night of Barat, one of Islam’s most spiritually significant nights, marked by prayers, repentance, and reflection.

Observed on the 15th night of Shaban in the Islamic lunar (Hijri) calendar, Laylat al-Barat is widely regarded as a night of forgiveness, mercy, and salvation, during which believers seek Allah’s pardon and pray for spiritual renewal. Mosques across the Muslim world are expected to host large congregations, as worshippers gather to perform voluntary prayers, recite the Qur’an, and offer supplications late into the night.

In Türkiye, many mosques are set to be filled with worshippers observing the sacred night. Although Laylat al-Barat is not recognized as a public holiday, it holds deep religious and cultural importance. As with other holy nights, mosque minarets across the country will be illuminated, and special religious programs and sermons will be held.

In Turkish tradition, such blessed nights are known as “kandil geceleri”, a term dating back to the Ottoman era when oil lamps, or kandils, were lit in mosques to mark these spiritually significant occasions. Laylat al-Barat is one of the five kandil nights observed in Islam, alongside Mevlid Kandili, Regaib Kandili, Miraç Kandili, and Kadir Gecesi.

Islamic scholars describe Laylat al-Barat as a time for self-examination and reconciliation, encouraging believers to mend broken ties, forgive others, and prepare their hearts for the coming month of Ramadan. The night is also seen as heralding the imminent arrival of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer, and charity.

In recent years, religious authorities and scholars have also emphasized the importance of combining night-long worship with acts of charity and social solidarity, reminding Muslims that spiritual devotion should be reflected in compassion for the poor and needy.

As Muslims worldwide mark Laylat al-Barat, the night serves as a powerful reminder of mercy, accountability, and spiritual preparation ahead of Ramadan. (ILKHA)