Lailat al-Qadr in Gambia
Lailat al-Qadr is listed as a public holiday in Gambia’s calendar and assigned to 23 Ramadan. It commemorates the night associated with the Quran’s revelation, but the official Gambian holiday list and announcements reviewed here do not confirm this holiday’s legal basis or practical arrangements.[1][2][3]
Meaning of the night
The Quran’s chapter Al-Qadr says that the Quran was sent down on the Night of Glory, describes the night as better than a thousand months, and says it lasts until dawn. These verses are the religious basis for the night’s significance.[3]
A commentary on the chapter describes Laylat al-Qadr as occurring during Ramadan and discusses seeking it during the last ten nights, especially the odd-numbered nights.[4]
Holiday status in Gambia
The Government of The Gambia’s published Important Dates list names Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Eid Milad-un-Nabi and Ashura, among other holidays, but does not name Lailat al-Qadr.[1]
Presidential announcements show that the Office of the President declares some Muslim feast days as nationwide public holidays, including Eid al-Fitr.[2]
Planning around the date
Residents and visitors should check with workplaces and service providers about opening hours for Lailat al-Qadr in Gambia.[1][2]
The Quran describes the night in terms of revelation, worship and its continuation until dawn.[3]
Frequently asked questions
When is Lailat al-Qadr observed in Gambia?
The Quran associates the night with its revelation and describes it as lasting until dawn.[3]
Is it a public holiday?
The Government of The Gambia’s published Important Dates list does not name Lailat al-Qadr.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Lailat al-Qadr in Gambia:
- Important Dates- The Official Website of The Government of The Gambia
- Declaration of Eid-Ul-Fitr Public Holidays- Office of The President, State House of The Gambia
- Surah Al-Qadr Ayahs 1-5 - Read, Listen, Translation, Tafsir- Quran.com
- Tafsir: Al-Qadr 97:5- Quran.com