The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Whoever established prayers on the night of Qadr out of sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven; and whoever fasts in the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven."
Hadith Text
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Whoever established prayers on the night of Qadr out of sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven; and whoever fasts in the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven."
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 1901 | Book: Fasting
Commentary on the Night of Qadr
The Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr) is superior to a thousand months in divine merit. The phrase "out of sincere faith" (īmānan wa-iḥtisāban) indicates two essential conditions: correct belief in Allah's commandments and pure intention seeking only His pleasure, not worldly recognition.
Scholars explain that "previous sins" refers to minor sins, as major sins require specific repentance. The night prayer mentioned encompasses any righteous deed performed during this blessed night, particularly the night vigil prayer (Tahajjud).
Commentary on Ramadan Fasting
Fasting Ramadan with sincere faith and expectation of reward constitutes one of Islam's pillars. The repetition of "out of sincere faith and hoping for reward" emphasizes that mere physical abstinence without spiritual consciousness doesn't fulfill the complete requirement.
Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes in Fath al-Bari that the forgiveness promised applies to those who complete the fasts properly, observing all regulations and avoiding invalidating acts. The combination of night worship during Qadr and daytime fasting creates comprehensive spiritual purification.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
This hadith establishes the tremendous virtue of seeking Laylat al-Qadr and completing Ramadan's fasts. It encourages Muslims to intensify worship during Ramadan's last ten nights while maintaining the quality of their fasting throughout the month.
The promise of complete forgiveness provides strong motivation for sinners to return to Allah, demonstrating His infinite mercy and the transformative power of these sacred acts of worship when performed with proper intention and faith.