Mandating Zakat al-Fitr
On this day in the blessed month of Ramadan, Zakat al-Fitr (also known as "Sadaqat al-Fitr") was mandated in Medina. Its obligation is supported by the verse: “Indeed, he has succeeded who purifies himself.” (Surah Al-A'la, 87:14). Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) prescribed Zakat al-Fitr as one sa' of dates or barley for every Muslim, male or female, free or enslaved. Zakat al-Fitr serves as a purification for the fasting person and a means to cleanse their fast.
Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Decree)
The night of the twenty-seventh of Ramadan is widely believed by scholars to be Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Decree). It is distinguished by its immense virtue, as the Holy Qur'an was sent down from the Preserved Tablet to the lowest heaven on this night, placed in the House of Honor. Gabriel (peace be upon him) then revealed it gradually to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) according to circumstances and events.
The name Laylat al-Qadr signifies its greatness and the divine decrees ordained during this night for the coming year. Its rewards surpass those of a thousand months, making it a highly blessed and spiritually significant night in Islam.
Death of Al-Mansur, the Umayyad Caliph in Andalusia
Al-Hajib Al-Mansur Muhammad ibn Abdullah ibn Abi Amer Al-Mu'afari, commonly known as Al-Mansur, was born in Al-Andalus and rose to prominence during the Umayyad Caliphate in Spain. His intelligence, ambition, and administrative skills earned him the favor of Caliph Al-Hakam II, under whom he began his career. Al-Mansur quickly ascended the ranks, becoming a trusted advisor and eventually the de facto ruler of Al-Andalus.
Al-Mansur's reign, which lasted from 367 AH to 392 AH (977–1002 CE), was marked by significant military and administrative achievements. Although he was not a caliph in the traditional sense, as he ruled on behalf of the young Caliph Hisham II, Al-Mansur wielded absolute power and effectively controlled the state. His leadership brought stability and prosperity to Al-Andalus during a time of political and social challenges.
Al-Mansur is best remembered for his military campaigns, which expanded the borders of the Umayyad Caliphate and secured its dominance in the Iberian Peninsula. He led numerous successful expeditions against Christian kingdoms in northern Spain, including the famous sacking of Santiago de Compostela in 997 CE. These victories solidified his reputation as a formidable military leader and protector of the Islamic state.
On the 27th of Ramadan, 392 AH (1002 CE), Al-Mansur passed away at the age of sixty-five. His death marked the end of an era of strong leadership in Al-Andalus. Despite his controversial methods of consolidating power, Al-Mansur left a lasting legacy as a skilled administrator and military strategist. His reign is often regarded as a golden period in the history of Islamic Spain, characterized by cultural flourishing and political stability.
Al-Mansur's contributions to the Umayyad Caliphate in Al-Andalus remain a significant chapter in Islamic history, reflecting his ability to navigate complex political landscapes and achieve remarkable feats during his tenure.
Muslim conquest of the fortified fortress of Folk in Slovakia
On the 27th of Ramadan in 1093 AH, corresponding to September 29, 1682 CE, the Ottoman commander, Uzan Ibrahim Pasha, seized the fortified fortress of Folk in Slovakia, along with 28 other fortresses in the region, achieving full control over Slovakia.
Victory of Muslims over the German army
On the 27th of Ramadan in 1107 AH, corresponding to April 20, 1696 CE, the Ottoman Sultan launched his second campaign into Europe, which led to fierce battles with the German army resulting in the Ottomans' victory. This campaign lasted for 6 months until October 25, 1696 CE.