The Prophet (ﷺ) as saying: If anyone fasts during Ramadan because of faith and in order to seek his reward from Allah, his previous sins will be forgiven to him. If anyone prays in the night of the power (lailat al-qadr) because of faith and in order to seek his reward from Allah his previous sins will be forgiven for him.
Abu Dawud said: This tradition has been transmitted in a similar manner by Yahya b. Abi Kathir and Muhammad b. 'Amr from Abu Salamah.
Hadith Text & Transmission
The Prophet (ﷺ) as saying: If anyone fasts during Ramadan because of faith and in order to seek his reward from Allah, his previous sins will be forgiven to him. If anyone prays in the night of the power (lailat al-qadr) because of faith and in order to seek his reward from Allah his previous sins will be forgiven for him.
Abu Dawud said: This tradition has been transmitted in a similar manner by Yahya b. Abi Kathir and Muhammad b. 'Amr from Abu Salamah.
Scholarly Commentary
This blessed hadith from Sunan Abi Dawud (1372) establishes two great opportunities for divine forgiveness: fasting Ramadan and praying during Laylat al-Qadr. The phrase "because of faith" (imanan) indicates the necessity of correct belief and sincerity, while "seeking his reward" (ihtisaban) signifies performing these acts solely for Allah's pleasure.
Scholars explain that "previous sins" refers to minor sins, as major sins require specific repentance. The conjunction of faith and sincere intention is essential - mere physical observance without spiritual presence yields limited benefit.
Ramadan Fasting Excellence
The fasting of Ramadan encompasses abstaining from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn to sunset while maintaining proper conduct. When coupled with sincere faith, this comprehensive worship becomes a means of complete spiritual purification.
Imam Nawawi notes that the reward mentioned is specifically for those who complete the fast with perfect observance of its conditions and etiquette.
Laylat al-Qadr Significance
The Night of Decree is hidden within the last ten nights of Ramadan, compelling believers to increase worship throughout this period. The prayer mentioned includes both obligatory and supererogatory prayers performed during this blessed night.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani emphasizes that standing in prayer during Laylat al-Qadr with faith and expectation of reward yields forgiveness equivalent to worshipping for a thousand months.
Practical Implementation
Complete the Ramadan fast with conscious faith, avoiding innovations and maintaining the Sunnah practices of suhur and iftar. In the last ten nights, intensify worship through prayer, Quran recitation, and supplication.
Seek Laylat al-Qadr particularly on the odd-numbered nights (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, 29th) with increased devotion and the recommended supplication: "Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul-'afwa fa'fu 'anni" (O Allah, You are Pardoning and love pardon, so pardon me).