That he was informed by `Aisha, "Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) went out in the middle of the night and prayed in the mosque and some men prayed behind him. In the morning, the people spoke about it and then a large number of them gathered and prayed behind him (on the second night). In the next morning the people again talked about it and on the third night the mosque was full with a large number of people. Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) came out and the people prayed behind him. On the fourth night the Mosque was overwhelmed with people and could not accommodate them, but the Prophet (ﷺ) came out (only) for the morning prayer. When the morning prayer was finished he recited Tashah-hud and (addressing the people) said, "Amma ba'du, your presence was not hidden from me but I was afraid lest the night prayer (Qiyam) should be enjoined on you and you might not be able to carry it on." So, Allah's Apostle died and the situation remained like that (i.e. people prayed individually). "
Praying at Night in Ramadaan (Taraweeh)
Sahih al-Bukhari 2012 - Commentary by Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani
Historical Context & Divine Wisdom
The Prophet's initial encouragement of congregational night prayer demonstrated its virtue, while his subsequent withdrawal revealed divine mercy. This balance between spiritual excellence and practical consideration reflects Islam's moderate path.
The gradual increase in attendance over three nights shows the Companions' eagerness to follow the Prophet's sunnah, while the fourth night's absence demonstrates Allah's protection of the ummah from undue hardship.
Legal Implications & Scholarly Consensus
This hadith establishes that Taraweeh is a confirmed sunnah (sunnah mu'akkadah), not obligatory (fard). The Prophet's concern was that continuous congregation might make it obligatory through Quranic revelation.
The preservation of individual prayer after the Prophet's passing indicates the divine will had been settled. Later, Caliph Umar reinstated congregation under one imam for unity, not obligation.
Spiritual Lessons
The Prophet's awareness of the people's gatherings despite not seeing them demonstrates his spiritual insight and Allah's knowledge of hidden matters.
The incident teaches that acts of worship should bring people closer to Allah without causing burnout. The Shariah considers both spiritual benefits and human capabilities.