Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Every night when it is the last third of the night, our Lord, the Superior, the Blessed, descends to the nearest heaven and says: Is there anyone to invoke Me that I may respond to his invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me so that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone asking My forgiveness so that I may forgive him?. " (See Hadith No. 246,Vol. 2)
Oneness, Uniqueness of Allah (Tawheed)
Sahih al-Bukhari 7494
Hadith Text
Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Every night when it is the last third of the night, our Lord, the Superior, the Blessed, descends to the nearest heaven and says: Is there anyone to invoke Me that I may respond to his invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me so that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone asking My forgiveness so that I may forgive him?"
Commentary on Divine Descent
This hadith affirms Allah's attribute of descending in a manner befitting His majesty without resembling creation. The descent is real but unlike physical movement of creatures. We affirm the attribute without questioning "how" (bila kayf).
Significance of the Last Third
This specific time contains special divine mercy when Allah draws near to His servants. The scholars mention this period corresponds to the time when sleep is deepest and remembrance of Allah requires greater effort, thus yielding higher reward.
Divine Invitation to Worship
Allah's call demonstrates His boundless generosity, inviting servants to seek forgiveness, make requests, and engage in supplication. This reflects His names "Al-Ghafoor" (The All-Forgiving) and "Al-Mujeeb" (The Responsive).
Practical Implications
Muslims should strive to awaken during this blessed period for tahajjud prayer, sincere supplication, and seeking forgiveness. This hadith encourages persistence in worship and reinforces hope in Allah's mercy and acceptance of prayers.