She said that when the last ten nights began God’s messenger prepared himself for religious exercises, stayed awake at night and wakened his family. (Bukhari and Muslim.)
Exposition of the Hadith on the Last Ten Nights
This narration from 'Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) concerning the Prophet's conduct during the final ten nights of Ramadan contains profound wisdom and guidance for the believers.
Spiritual Preparation and Vigilance
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) "prepared himself for religious exercises" - this indicates increasing in worship, seclusion for devotion (i'tikaf), and intensifying all forms of obedience. He would tighten his waistcloth, a metaphor for complete dedication and detachment from worldly affairs.
"Stayed awake at night" demonstrates the superiority of night prayer during these blessed nights, particularly seeking Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree), which is better than a thousand months of worship.
Family Education and Collective Worship
"Wakened his family" shows the importance of involving one's household in righteous deeds. The Prophet did not seek spiritual excellence alone but ensured his family shared in these blessings, teaching us that religious education begins at home.
This collective awakening symbolizes the spiritual revival of the entire Muslim household during these precious nights, transforming homes into places of worship and remembrance.
Timing and Significance
The specification of "the last ten nights" points to the culmination of Ramadan's blessings. Scholars note that Laylat al-Qadr most likely occurs during the odd-numbered nights of this period, making consistent worship throughout essential.
This practice establishes a prophetic tradition (sunnah) for all Muslims to intensify worship during these nights, seeking forgiveness and divine proximity before Ramadan concludes.