Fatimah (SA); The Reality of Laylat al-Qadr

Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq (AS) interpreted the term “Laylat al-Qadr” (the Night of Decree) in Surah al-Qadr, saying:

«اللَّیْلَةُ فَاطِمَةُ وَ الْقَدْرُ اللَّهُ، فَمَنْ عَرَفَ فَاطِمَةً حَقَّ مَعْرِفَتِهَا فَقَدْ أَدْرَکَ لَیْلَةَ الْقَدْرِ، وَ إِنَّمَا سُمِّیَتْ فَاطِمَةً لِأَنَّ الْخَلْقَ فُطِمُوا عَنْ مَعْرِفَتِهَا»

“Laylat al-Qadr refers to Fatimah (SA), and ‘al-Qadr’ refers to Allah. Thus, whosoever truly recognizes Fatimah (SA) has indeed attained Laylat al-Qadr. She was named ‘Fatimah’ precisely because creation has been weaned away from truly knowing her.”
(Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 43, p. 65)

This narration highlights a pivotal aspect of Shia belief: that Ahl al-Bayt (AS)—especially Lady Fatimah al-Zahra (SA)—are the embodiment of Divine Mercy and the spiritual ladder (mi‘raj) to true divine recognition (ma‘rifah). This hadith also alludes to the luminous existence of Lady Fatimah (SA), whose inner reality is inaccessible to anyone except the Infallibles (AS).

Hence, this narration is not merely an exegetical point; rather, it reveals the depth of mystical knowledge (‘irfan), the essence of Tawhid (Divine Unity), and the true nature of Wilayah (Divine guardianship). The secret of Laylat al-Qadr is, in truth, concealed within the sacred being of Fatimah al-Zahra (SA). Whoever comprehends the greatness of Lady Fatimah (SA) has already received the blessings of Laylat al-Qadr. Yet, this reality remains beyond full human comprehension. Therefore, at the very least, it is our duty to study, understand, and strive with utmost sincerity to emulate the outward qualities and exemplary conduct of the “Princess of the Universe (SA).”