15th Ramadan A’maal Guide: Prayers, Duas, and Spiritual practices

Abstract

This guide explains the spiritual importance of the 15th night and day of Ramadan, one of the blessed middle nights known as Ayyam al-Bayd, supported by Qur’anic verses and authentic narrations from the Ahl al-Bayt (AS). It provides a clear, step-by-step outline of the recommended a’maal preserved in Mafatih al-Jinan—such as ghusl, special prayers, dhikr, duas, charity, and additional devotional acts—to help believers seek forgiveness, increased sustenance, and closeness to Allah. By practicing these a’maal with sincerity, consistency, and intention, readers can use this night as a turning point for deeper spiritual growth during Ramadan.

Introduction

Ramadan is known as “the month of Allah” because no other month carries such a deep spiritual connection. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Rajab is the month of Allah, Sha’ban is my month, and Ramadan is the month of my Ummah,” showing its special importance. Imam Ali (AS) explained that Ramadan is linked to Allah because it includes Laylat al-Qadr, the night that is “better than a thousand months,” a night when blessings, destiny, and divine mercy descend. The Qur’an also honors this month by saying, “The month of Ramadan is the month in which the Qur’an was revealed” (2:185), meaning Allah chose this month for the greatest gift to humanity. Because of this, scholars say the Qur’an honored Ramadan, and Ramadan honored the Qur’an.

It is also called the month of Divine Hospitality, as Imam Ridha (AS) said, “In Ramadan, you are invited to the hospitality of Allah,” meaning every believer receives special spiritual care from their Lord. In this month, every good deed is increased in reward; even the simple breath of a fasting person is beloved to Allah. Imam Sadiq (AS) taught that reciting one verse in Ramadan equals reciting the entire Qur’an in other months, showing how powerful worship becomes in this time. Ramadan is filled with mercy, forgiveness, and freedom from the Fire, and Imam Baqir (AS) described Laylat al-Qadr as “the heart of Ramadan.”

The a’maal of the 15th night and day are preserved in Mafatih al-Jinan, offering reliable, beautiful acts of worship to help believers connect deeply with Allah.

Importance of the 15th Night of Ramadan

The 15th night of Ramadan (Laylat al-Nisf) is one of the most spiritually powerful nights in the entire month. While every night of Ramadan carries mercy and blessings, the middle nights—the 13th, 14th, and especially the 15th—are described in many narrations as moments when the doors of the heavens are widely opened. Scholars explain that this night stands at the center of the month, where the believer’s heart reaches a point of balance, focus, and renewed spiritual energy.

Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (AS) said: “The middle night of Ramadan is one of the blessed nights in which sustenance is divided and decrees are written.”

— al-Iqbal li’l-A’mal, Sayyid Ibn Tawus

This means that on this night, a person’s rizq (sustenance), opportunities, and blessings for the coming year are shaped by Allah’s mercy.

Imam al-Baqir (AS) also taught that the middle nights of Ramadan are special times for forgiveness and spiritual cleansing, where sincere prayers are accepted. These a’maal are preserved in Mafatih al-Jinan, under the section: “A’maal of the Month of Ramadan – Middle Nights (Layali al-Ayyam al-Bayd)”

The 13th, 14th, and 15th nights are known as Ayyam al-Bayd, but scholars describe the 15th night as the peak—a night of destiny, blessing, and answered prayers. Through worship on this night, believers seek increased sustenance, protection, forgiveness, and closeness to Allah.

A’maal for 15th Night and Day of Ramadan

The 15th night of Ramadan (Laylat al-Nisf) is one of the blessed middle nights known as Ayyam al-Bayd. Mafatih al-Jinan gathers these a’maal from trusted sources such as al-Kafi, al-Iqbal, Man La Yahdhuruhu al-Faqih, and Wasail al-Shia. The following steps guide you through the recommended worship.

1. Ghusl (Purifying Bath)

Before starting worship, it is recommended to perform ghusl, as mentioned in Mafatih al-Jinan. This practice is supported by earlier narrations in al-Kafi – Kitab al-Tahara, where ghusl is described as a means of spiritual purity before meeting Allah in worship. Ghusl prepares your body and mind, helping you enter the blessed night with cleanliness, humility, and focus—just as the Qur’an teaches:

“Indeed, Allah loves those who purify themselves.”

— Qur’an 2:222

2. Two Rak’at Prayer (Salat of the 15th Night)

This prayer, mentioned in Mafatih al-Jinan under the section “A’maal al-Layal al-Bayd,” consists of performing two rak’at, and in each rak’at reciting Surah al-Fatiha followed by Surah al-Ikhlas—100 times, or 10 times according to some narrations. Mafatih, quoting al-Iqbal by Ibn Tawus and Wasail al-Shia (vol. 7), explains that whoever performs this prayer with sincerity will receive immense forgiveness from Allah, and their heart will be filled with divine light and spiritual clarity.

3. Dhikr 100 Times: “Astaghfirullaha Rabbi wa Atubu Ilayh”

أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللهَ رَبِّي وَأَتُوبُ إِلَيْهِ

Transliteration: Astaghfirullaha Rabbi wa Atubu Ilayh

Translation: “I seek forgiveness from Allah, my Lord, and I turn to Him in repentance.”

The dhikr “Astaghfirullaha Rabbi wa Atubu Ilayh” is recommended 100 times in the Ayyam al-Bayd a’maal mentioned in Mafatih al-Jinan. This simple yet powerful istighfar carries great virtues: it wipes away sins and brings an increase in sustenance (rizq). The Qur’an itself highlights these blessings, saying, “Seek forgiveness from your Lord… He will send rain, wealth, and children.” (Qur’an 71:10–12). Through this dhikr, a believer opens the doors of mercy, abundance, and divine forgiveness.

4. Tasbih of Sayyida Fatima (SA)

After completing the prayer and istighfar, believers are encouraged to recite the Tasbih of Lady Fatima Zahra (SA), which includes saying Allahu Akbar 34 times, Al-hamdu lillah 33 times, and Subhan Allah 33 times. According to narrations found in al-Kafi, “There is no worship after salah more rewarding than the Tasbih of Fatima (SA).” This blessed tasbih brings tranquility to the heart, strengthens one’s connection with Allah, and increases blessings in one’s daily life.

5. Dua of the 15th Night

Mafatih al-Jinan includes a beautiful dua for the 15th night that begins with “Allahumma ya man yamliku hawaja as-sa’ilin…” (“O Allah, the One who controls the needs of every asker…”), originally narrated in al-Iqbal li’l-A’mal by Ibn Tawus. This heartfelt supplication focuses on asking Allah for forgiveness, seeking relief from hardships, praying for increased livelihood, requesting protection from harm, and strengthening one’s faith and patience. Its themes reflect the Qur’anic promise:

“Call upon Me; I will answer you.”

— Qur’an 40:60

6. Recitation of Surah Ya Sin

Many editions of Mafatih al-Jinan recommend reciting Surah Ya Sin on special nights, especially during the blessed middle nights of Ramadan. Thawab al-A’mal by Shaykh Saduq highlights its great virtues, including the narration: “For every need of this world and the next, recite Surah Ya Sin.” Known as the heart of the Qur’an, Surah Ya Sin brings mercy, ease, and the fulfillment of one’s worldly and spiritual needs, making it a powerful recitation for seeking Allah’s blessings.

7. Charity (Sadaqah)

Giving charity on this night is highly encouraged.

References:

  • al-Kafi narrates that charity during Ramadan is multiplied many times by Allah.
  • Ibn Tawus in al-Iqbal specifically recommends giving sadaqah on the 15th night.

Even a small amount—food, water, money, or helping someone—is counted as a great act of worship. The Qur’an teaches:

“Whatever good you give, Allah knows it well.”

— Qur’an 2:273

A’maal of the 15th Day of Ramadan

The 15th day of Ramadan carries its own special blessings and recommended acts of worship. Mafatih al-Jinan lists these under: “A’maal Yawm al-Khamis ‘Ashar min Ramadhan.”

These a’maal help a believer complete the middle of Ramadan with purity, gratitude, and renewed intention.

Recommended Fasting Virtues

Fasting on the 15th day is highly encouraged. Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (AS) said:

“Fasting during the middle days of Ramadan brings light to the heart.”

— Man La Yahdhuruhu al-Faqih, Shaykh Saduq

This means that the act of fasting strengthens inner clarity, softens the heart, and increases spiritual understanding. The Qur’an teaches that fasting is a path to taqwa (piety):

“Fasting has been prescribed for you… so that you may become God-conscious.”

— Qur’an 2:183

So fasting on this day is not only a physical act—it is a way to brighten the soul.

Special Prayer (Salat of the 15th Day)

Many editions of Mafatih al-Jinan include a special two-rak’at prayer from earlier devotional books like: al-Balad al-Amin by al-Kaf’ami (which Shaykh Abbas Qummi used when compiling Mafatih).

How to perform this prayer:

First rak’at:

  • Surah al-Fatiha
  • Ayah al-Kursi (Qur’an 2:255)

Second rak’at:

  • Surah al-Fatiha
  • Surah al-Qadr (or al-Ikhlas, depending on narration)

Benefits mentioned:

  • Protection from difficulties
  • Increase in sustenance (rizq)
  • Peace in the heart
  • Acceptance of prayers

Ayah al-Kursi itself is known for powerful protection, as narrated in al-Kafi.

Dua for the 15th Day

Mafatih includes a special dua starting with: “Allahumma dhallil li’l-khayra bil-tawfiq…” (“O Allah, make goodness easy for me through Your guidance…”)

Main themes of this dua:

  • Asking Allah to protect the believer from misguidance
  • Seeking strength to perform good deeds
  • Requesting mercy, success, and blessings
  • Praying for ease in worship

This dua aligns with the Qur’anic message: “My Lord, help me to remember You, thank You, and worship You well.”

Supplications After Zuhr

Some narrations recommend extra dhikr after Zuhr on this day. From Wasail al-Shia, Bab al-Dhikr fi Ayyam al-Sawm, recommended practices include:

  • Reciting “Ya Dha’l-Jalali wa’l-Ikram”
  • Sending salawat 100 times

اللهم صل على محمد وآل محمد

These dhikr phrases increase blessings, wipe away small sins, and bring spiritual peace.

Additional Recommended Practices

Along with the main a’maal of this day, Mafatih al-Jinan also encourages several optional acts that bring extra blessings and strengthen a believer’s character.

Maintaining Family Ties (Silat ar-Rahim)

Islam places great importance on respecting and connecting with family. The Qur’an says:

“And fear Allah, through whom you ask one another, and maintain the ties of kinship.”

— Qur’an 4:1

A small act—calling a relative, visiting parents, or helping family—brings long life and increases sustenance, as narrated in al-Kafi.

Reciting Dua al-Iftitah

This famous Ramadan dua, found in Mafatih, teaches hope, gratitude, and trust in Allah. It is narrated from the Imams of Ahl al-Bayt (AS) and is meant to be read every night of Ramadan.

Istighfar 70 Times Before Sunset

Repeating “Astaghfirullah” 70 times before Maghrib is recommended in many Ramadan narrations. The Qur’an promises:

“Seek forgiveness… He will increase you in strength and bless you.”

— Qur’an 11:52

Reading Nahj al-Balagha, Sermon 192

Known as the Sermon of the Muttaqin, this sermon by Imam Ali (AS) describes the qualities of the righteous. Reading even a portion brings deep reflection and spiritual motivation.

These optional practices help complete the blessings of the 15th day with kindness, remembrance, and spiritual growth.

Spiritual Lessons From the Middle of Ramadan

The middle of Ramadan carries deep spiritual lessons that help a believer renew their heart and strengthen their connection with Allah. This period is a time for renewing intentions, reminding ourselves why we fast, pray, and strive for goodness. As the body adjusts to fasting, the soul becomes calmer and more focused, making it the perfect moment to realign one’s goals with sincerity.

The middle of Ramadan also emphasizes seeking forgiveness, as the Prophet (PBUH) said:

“The beginning of Ramadan is mercy, the middle is forgiveness, and the end is freedom from the Fire.”

— Bihar al-Anwar

These days invite believers to cleanse their hearts through repentance, dua, and turning back to Allah with humility. At the same time, this part of the month teaches us the balance between worship and self-discipline—strengthening the willpower to resist temptation, increasing patience, and forming habits that purify both body and soul.

The Ayyam al-Bayd (13th, 14th, and 15th days) beautifully symbolize the “whitening” of the soul, where continuous worship, fasting, and repentance gradually wash away spiritual darkness and replace it with inner light and clarity. As Imam Sadiq (AS) said in al-Kafi, “Ramadan is the spring of the Qur’an”, meaning it is the season in which the heart blossoms through recitation, reflection, and spiritual growth. Together, these lessons make the middle of Ramadan a powerful turning point—encouraging believers to purify their hearts, strengthen their faith, and move through the remaining days with renewed energy and purpose.

Practical Tips for Readers

To benefit fully from the a’maal of the 15th night and day, it helps to plan ahead. Try to schedule the a’maal by setting a quiet time after Maghrib or Isha at night, and some moments after Zuhr during the day. Prepare your essentials in advance—your Qur’an, tasbih, and printed or digital copies of the duas from Mafatih al-Jinan—so your worship flows smoothly.

Remember, the Qur’an teaches:

“Allah does not burden a soul beyond its capacity.”

— Qur’an 2:286

So do what you can with peace of mind.

It is better to perform fewer a’maal with sincerity than to rush through many. Imam Ali (AS) says in Nahj al-Balagha:

“The best actions are those done with sincerity.”

Focus on your heart, not the quantity. Even a small act done with love is accepted by Allah.

Conclusion

The 15th night and day of Ramadan are blessed moments filled with mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual opportunity. Through the a’maal preserved in Mafatih al-Jinan and rooted in the teachings of the Qur’an and the Ahl al-Bayt (AS), believers can purify their hearts, increase their sustenance, and draw closer to Allah. The Qur’an reminds us:

“Whoever comes to Allah with a pure heart will be successful.”

— Qur’an 26:89

Consistency is key. Even small acts done regularly carry great value. Imam Sadiq (AS) said that Allah loves the deed that is continuous, even if small.

Let this Ramadan be a turning point—a month where you build new habits of worship, reflection, charity, and sincere dua. May these a’maal bring light to your heart and guide you toward lasting spiritual growth.

Multiply Your Rewards for Spiritual Days in the Holy Shrine

Visit the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain (AS), where every heartbeat becomes a prayer and every tear becomes a blessing. As the sacred month of Ramadan unfolds, its nights fill with mercy, forgiveness, and nearness to Allah. There is no place where the soul awakens more deeply than Karbala—the land of sacrifice, devotion, and eternal guidance.

This Ramadan, we invite you to spend the most spiritual nights and blessed days in the presence of Imam Hussain (AS) and Hazrat Abbas (AS). Let your prayers rise from the soil known as “the gate of answered supplications.”

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  • Renew your spirit and deepen your connection with Allah.

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