Abu Hurayra reported that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "Our Lord, the Blessed and Exalted, descends to the lowest heaven every night when a third of the night remains. He says, 'Who is calling on Me so that I can answer him? Who is asking Me for something so that I can give to him? "Who is asking Me for forgiveness so that I can forgive him?'"
Hadith Text
Abu Hurayra reported that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "Our Lord, the Blessed and Exalted, descends to the lowest heaven every night when a third of the night remains. He says, 'Who is calling on Me so that I can answer him? Who is asking Me for something so that I can give to him? Who is asking Me for forgiveness so that I can forgive him?'"
Scholarly Commentary
This noble hadith, found in Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 753, demonstrates Allah's boundless mercy and proximity to His servants. The divine descent mentioned is in a manner befitting His majesty, unlike His creation, as affirmed by Ahl al-Sunnah wal-Jama'ah.
The timing - the last third of the night - is particularly significant for worship, when distractions are minimal and hearts are most receptive. Allah's triple inquiry emphasizes three essential acts of worship: supplication (du'a), seeking provision (istiftah), and seeking forgiveness (istighfar).
This hadith encourages night vigil (qiyam al-layl) and affirms that Allah responds to His servants without intermediary. It reflects the intimate relationship between the Creator and His creation, inviting believers to seize this blessed opportunity for spiritual elevation and divine response.
Practical Implications
Muslims should strive to awaken during the last third of the night for prayer, supplication, and seeking forgiveness.
This time represents a unique opportunity for direct communion with Allah when prayers are most likely to be accepted.
The hadith inspires hope in Allah's mercy and encourages persistence in worship, especially during these blessed hours.