Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of the heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained."
Hadith Text
Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of the heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained."
Source Reference
Book: Fasting
Author: Sahih al-Bukhari
Hadith: Sahih al-Bukhari 1899
Scholarly Commentary
This noble hadith reveals the immense spiritual significance of Ramadan. The opening of heaven's gates signifies divine mercy descending and acceptance of righteous deeds. The closing of Hell's gates indicates divine protection from evil consequences. The chaining of devils means their influence over believers is significantly reduced, facilitating worship.
Scholars explain this as both literal and metaphorical. Literally, Allah restrains the devils' power during Ramadan. Metaphorically, it signifies the spiritual environment where believers find ease in obedience and difficulty in sinning. This divine assistance enables Muslims to focus on worship, Quran recitation, and spiritual purification.
The hadith emphasizes Ramadan's unique status as a month of divine favor, where barriers between creation and Creator are lowered. It serves as motivation for believers to maximize worship, knowing Allah has created optimal conditions for spiritual success and forgiveness.