I questioned Ubayy b. Ka'b about a statement by his brother [not actual brother] Ibn Mas'ud to the effect that anyone who gets up for prayer every night in the year will hit upon lailat al-qadr, and he replied, “God have mercy on him! He meant that people should not content themselves [with that might alone]. He knew that it was in Ramadan among the last ten nights and that it was the twenty-seventh.” He then swore without any reservation that it was the twenty-seventh, and when I asked, “On what ground do you state that, Abul Mundhir? [Ubayy's kunya]” he replied, “By the indication (or sign)* of which God’s messenger informed us, viz. that the sun rises on that day without rays.” *An alternative, the transmitter not being sure which word was used.*An alternative, the transmitter not being sure which word was used.Muslim transmitted it.
Commentary on the Night of Decree
This narration from Ubayy ibn Ka'b concerning Lailat al-Qadr demonstrates the wisdom of the Companions in guiding the Ummah. Ibn Mas'ud's statement that whoever prays every night will attain Lailat al-Qadr was not a precise identification but rather an encouragement to consistent worship throughout the year, preventing complacency in seeking this blessed night.
Specific Timing Revelation
Ubayy ibn Ka'b clarifies that the precise knowledge among the Companions placed Lailat al-Qadr within Ramadan's final ten nights, specifically the twenty-seventh. His unwavering oath indicates the certainty of this knowledge among the close Companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him).
Divine Sign of Recognition
The distinguishing sign mentioned—the sun rising without rays—serves as a celestial confirmation. This phenomenon symbolizes the night's spiritual purity, where divine light overwhelms earthly illumination. Such signs authenticate the night for those who worship sincerely, providing tangible evidence of its occurrence.
Scholarly Wisdom in Guidance
This exchange exemplifies how Companions balanced encouragement with precise knowledge. Ibn Mas'ud motivated continuous worship while Ubayy provided specific guidance—a approach reflecting the comprehensive nature of Islamic teaching that addresses both spiritual motivation and practical implementation.