Q 1: Is delivering a Khutbah (sermon) on Laylat-ul-Qadr (the Night of Decree) prescribed in Shari`ah (islamic Law)? Is it considered an act of Sunnah (supererogatory act of worship following the example of the Prophet)? 2- Is it an act of Sunnah to collect money for celebrating honorable nights such as Laylat-ul-Qadr in Ramadan 3- Is it a legal tradition to distribute cups of tea among the listeners on such honorable nights 4- Is it an act of Sunnah to distribute money or presents among the speakers on these nights and to invite the servants of the Masjid (mosque) to attend these celebrations? A: It is impermissible to celebrate Laylat-ul-Qadr or any other night such as the night of the mid of Sha`ban, the night of Mi`raj (ascension to heaven) or the Prophet's birthday, for such acts are innovated Bid`ah (innovations in religion) that were not authentically reported (Part No. 2; Page No. 258

A: It is impermissible to celebrate Laylat-ul-Qadr or any other night such as the night of the mid of Sha`ban, the night of Mi`raj (ascension to heaven) or the Prophet's birthday, for such acts are innovated Bid`ah (innovations in religion) that were not authentically reported (Part No. 2; Page No. 258) from the Prophet (peace be upon him) or any of his Companions. He (peace be upon him) said: Anyone who does an action which is not stated in this matter of ours (Islam) will have it rejected. Moreover, it is impermissible to help in holding such celebrations either with money, presents or by distributing cups of tea. It is also impermissible to deliver a Khutbah or a lesson on these nights, for this involves approving of and encouraging such acts. Rather, they should be disavowed and abandoned. However, it is permissible to offer Qiyam-ul-Layl (optional Prayer at night) during Ramadan and the last nights of it and to increase the recitation of Qur'an, Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah) and Du`a' (supplication), for the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Whoever observes night prayer during Ramadan, out of Iman (faith) and hoping for Allah's Reward, their previous sins will be forgiven. And: Whoever offers night prayers on Laylat-ul-Qadr out of sincere Iman and hoping for Allah's Reward, all their previous sins will be forgiven. `Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) also said: As the last ten days of Ramadan started, the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to avoid having intercourse with his wives (to offer worship with more vigor) and pray all night. She (may Allah be pleased with her) also said: "O, Prophet of Allah! What should I say when I concur with Laylat Al-Qadr (the Night of Decree)?" He (peace be upon him) said, "Say: O, Allah! You are Most Forgiving, and You love forgiveness, so forgive me." May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.