Malam Tujuh Likur: A Night Of Spiritual Significance And Cultural Tradition
BY ANIS HIPNI
KUCHING: As Ramadan draws to a close, Malam Tujuh Likur continues to hold deep religious and cultural significance.
While some link the 27th night of Ramadan to folklore and traditions, Islamic scholars highlight its true essence — a time for heightened devotion and spiritual reflection in preparation for Eid.
In an interview with Sarawak Tribune, Ustaz Zaidi Bagani from SK Astana sheds light on the meaning behind Malam Tujuh Likur.
He also disproved certain beliefs of Malam 7 Likur, saying that some of them are only superstitions.
Sarawak Tribune: Can you explain the meaning of Malam Tujuh Likur and its significance?
Ustaz Zaidi: From my understanding, Tujuh Likur refers to the last 10 nights of Ramadan. However, Malam Tujuh Likur is specifically observed on the 27th night of Ramadan. According to older generations, there were certain beliefs associated with this night, though the accuracy of these beliefs is debatable.
In the past, children often played outside at night, and to prevent them from staying out too long, some parents warned them about ghosts lurking outside. There was also a belief that spirits would visit their old homes on this night.
Some people even believed that the dead would return home on Malam Tujuh Likur. However, from an Islamic perspective, such beliefs are considered superstitious and not part of the true teachings of Islam.
Sarawak Tribune: Some widely held beliefs, such as spirits lurking around, are not actually part of religious doctrine. Can you explain the true religious significance of Malam 7 Likur in Islam?
Ustaz Zaidi: In Islam, Malam Tujuh Likur is more about preparation. In earlier times, villagers would make arrangements because there was no electricity, and they had to ensure that all the roads were well lit.
Lighting lamps was a way to brighten the paths, making it easier for people to go to the mosque for prayers, especially during the last 10 nights of Ramadan, which are particularly significant in Islam. These nights are believed to contain Laylatul Qadr (the Night of Decree).
Some believe that Laylatul Qadr falls on the 27th night of Ramadan, but according to Islamic teachings, it can occur on any of the odd-numbered nights in the last 10 days of Ramadan.
Many believe it marks the return of spirits or the presence of supernatural beings, but from an Islamic perspective, these are mere superstitions that people believe.
Sarawak Tribune: So, Laylatul Qadr would always fall on the 27th night of Ramadan?
Ustaz Zaidi: Not necessarily. The Prophet Muhammad mentioned in hadiths that Laylatul Qadr falls on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last 10 days of Ramadan. Some scholars believe it to be on the night of the 27th of Ramadan, but there is no absolute certainty. The wisdom behind this uncertainty is to encourage Muslims to increase their worship throughout the last 10 nights rather than focusing on just one.
There are hadiths indicating that some companions of the Prophet believed Laylatul Qadr was on the 27th night, but ultimately, the exact night is unknown. Therefore, it is encouraged to seek this blessed night through prayer and worship during all 10 nights.
Sarawak Tribune: How do Muslims in Malaysia, particularly in Sarawak, celebrate Malam Tujuh Likur? Are there any specific traditions or activities done during these nights?
Ustaz Zaidi: In Sarawak, Malam Tujuh Likur is traditionally marked by lighting pelita (oil lamps). In the past, people would use kerosene lamps, and almost every house would be lit up. Some would even make their own lamps from tin cans or bamboo.
However, with modern advancements, fewer people continue this tradition, as electric lights have replaced oil lamps.
Additionally, the rising cost of kerosene and fire safety concerns have contributed to the decline of this practice.
Sarawak Tribune: Is lighting oil lamps a religious obligation or merely a cultural tradition?
Ustaz Zaidi: Lighting lamps is primarily a cultural tradition rather than a religious obligation in Islam. While there is no specific religious command to light lamps on Malam Tujuh Likur, it has long been a practice among communities, particularly in Malaysia, as a way to mark the final nights of Ramadan. Islam encourages positive traditions that foster unity, strengthen social bonds and promote acts of worship.
Historically, before the advent of electricity, people relied on oil lamps to illuminate their homes and surroundings, making it easier to perform night prayers and other religious activities. The glow of these lamps also symbolised the approaching end of Ramadan, reminding individuals to increase their devotion, prayers and reflection.
Today, while electric lights have replaced traditional oil lamps in many places, the practice continues in some communities as a nostalgic and symbolic way to honour the spiritual essence of Ramadan. Some neighbourhoods also organise neighbourhood decoration competition using oil lamps or electric lights. These competitions indirectly unite people and bring them closer to each other, which is a good thing.
Sarawak Tribune: During Malam Tujuh Likur, one of the nights is believed to be Laylatul Qadr, where good deeds are said to be rewarded as if performed for a thousand months. What acts of worship would you encourage Muslims to engage in on this night?
Ustaz Zaidi: The best practice during Malam Tujuh Likur is Qiyamullail (night prayers), which includes performing Tahajjud prayers, making heartfelt du’a (supplications), and reciting the Quran with deep reflection.
These acts of worship help strengthen one’s faith, bring peace to the heart, and draw believers closer to Allah. In addition, Muslims are encouraged to minimise distractions, such as excessive phone use or engaging in idle talk and instead dedicate their time to meaningful acts of zikir, seeking forgiveness, and increasing their devotion.
On Laylatul Qadr, the rewards for good deeds are immensely multiplied, with their value being equivalent to worship performed for a thousand months.
This means that a single night of sincere worship can bring the spiritual benefits of more than 83 years of devotion. It is a night of immense mercy and blessings, where sincere prayers, supplications and acts of worship are more likely to be accepted by Allah.
Many believers take this opportunity to pray for forgiveness, guidance and blessings for themselves, their families, and the entire Muslim community. Given the uncertainty of which night Laylatul Qadr falls on, it is highly recommended to remain steadfast in worship throughout the last 10 nights of Ramadan to maximise the opportunity for spiritual rewards.
Sarawak Tribune: How can individuals with busy schedules still benefit from Malam Tujuh Likur?
Ustaz Zaidi: People should not wait for free time to engage in worship of Allah. Instead, they should actively make time for it, as a devotion to Allah should be a priority in daily life.
In today’s fast-paced world, where work, studies and personal responsibilities often take up much of our time, it is essential to find moments throughout the day to connect with Allah. Even during a busy schedule, small but consistent acts of worship can be incorporated, ensuring that spirituality remains a part of one’s daily routine.
For instance, while commuting to work or running errands, one can engage in zikir (remembrance of Allah) by silently reciting phrases such as SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah), Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah), and Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest). Additionally, listening to Quran recitations or Islamic lectures can provide spiritual nourishment and reflection, even in the midst of a hectic schedule.
The key is to maintain spiritual mindfulness despite the demands of daily life. Worship does not always require long, uninterrupted hours; rather, it is about sincerity, consistency and making the most of the time available.
Whether it is through short supplications, offering prayers on time, or taking a few moments to express gratitude to Allah, every effort counts. By making a conscious effort to include acts of worship in daily routines, individuals can strengthen their faith, find inner peace and cultivate a deeper connection with their Creator.
Sarawak Tribune: What advice would you give to the younger generation to preserve the tradition of Malam Tujuh Likur?
Ustaz Zaidi: The younger generation should continue this tradition, as it fosters strong relationships among family and neighbours.
More importantly, it serves as a reminder to increase worship during the final nights of Ramadan. If neglected, future generations may become even more disconnected from religious practices.
It is crucial to preserve the traditions and practices of Malam Tujuh Likur so that they continue to inspire greater devotion and encourage increased acts of worship as Ramadan comes to an end.
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