Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) (p.b.u.h) said, "Our Lord, the Blessed, the Superior, comes every night down on the nearest Heaven to us when the last third of the night remains, saying: "Is there anyone to invoke Me, so that I may respond to invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me, so that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone seeking My forgiveness, so that I may forgive him?"
Prayer at Night (Tahajjud)
Sahih al-Bukhari - Hadith 1145
Divine Descent & Mercy
This hadith describes Allah's special descent to the lowest heaven during the final third of the night, demonstrating His infinite mercy and proximity to His servants. This is a metaphorical descent befitting His Majesty, not resembling physical movement.
The timing coincides with Tahajjud prayers, when hearts are most receptive and supplications most readily accepted. Allah's questioning manifests His eagerness to bestow blessings upon believers.
Threefold Invitation
Allah extends three specific invitations: for supplication (du'a), for asking needs, and for seeking forgiveness. This comprehensive offer covers spiritual and worldly needs, emphasizing that no request is too small or great for His generosity.
The repetition emphasizes Allah's willingness to respond, grant, and forgive - highlighting His attributes as Al-Mujīb (The Responder), Al-Wahhāb (The Bestower), and Al-Ghafūr (The Forgiving).
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars like Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explain this as a special divine manifestation of mercy, not to be understood literally. The "coming down" is in a manner befitting Allah's perfection, without resemblance to creation.
Imam An-Nawawi emphasizes this hadith's encouragement for night worship, stating it contains the greatest motivation for Tahajjud prayer and night supplication, as responses are guaranteed during this blessed period.
Practical Application
Muslims should strive to awaken during the last third of the night for Tahajjud prayers, sincere supplication, and seeking forgiveness. This time represents a unique opportunity for divine connection and spiritual elevation.
The hadith teaches that Allah invites us first, demonstrating His initiatory grace. Our response through worship completes this divine-human interaction, fulfilling the purpose of our creation.