Anas reported God's messenger as saying that when lailat al-qadr comes Gabriel descends with a company of angels who invoke blessings on everyone who is standing or sitting and remembering God who is great and glorious. Then when their festival day comes, i.e. the day when they break their fast, God speaks proudly of them to His angels saying, “My angels, what is the reward of a hired servant who has fully accomplished his work?” They reply, “Our Lord, his reward is that he should be paid his wage in full.” He says, “My angels, my male and female servants have fulfilled what I have made obligatory for them, and then have come out raising their voices in supplication. By my might, glory, honour, high dignity, and exalted station, I will certainly answer them.” Then He says, “Return, for I have forgiven you and changed your evil deeds into good deeds.” He said that they then return having received forgiveness. Baihaqi transmitted it in Shu'ab al-iman.
Commentary on the Excellence of Laylat al-Qadr and Eid al-Fitr
This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) reveals profound spiritual realities concerning Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree) and the day of Eid al-Fitr. The narration demonstrates Allah's immense mercy and the elevated status of believers who complete the obligations of Ramadan.
The Descent of Angels on Laylat al-Qadr
The descent of Gabriel with companies of angels signifies the tremendous sanctity of this night. Their invocation of blessings upon those engaged in remembrance of Allah indicates that any worship performed this night carries multiplied rewards. The scholars explain that "standing or sitting" refers to all states of worship - whether in prayer, recitation, or dhikr.
Divine Pride on Eid Day
Allah's pride in His servants who completed fasting demonstrates the special relationship between the Creator and His faithful worshippers. The analogy of the hired servant who completed his work illustrates that Allah, in His perfect justice, will not let any good deed go unrewarded. This divine conversation with the angels serves to magnify the status of the believers.
The Promise of Acceptance
Allah swears by His might and glory - the greatest oaths - to emphasize the certainty of answering the supplications of those who fasted. This demonstrates that the du'a of the fasting person is particularly accepted. The transformation of evil deeds into good deeds represents Allah's ultimate mercy, wiping away past sins and replacing them with rewards.
Spiritual Implications
This hadith encourages Muslims to maximize worship during the last ten nights of Ramadan and to approach Eid with hope in divine forgiveness. It teaches that sincere obedience leads to divine honor and that Allah's mercy far exceeds our expectations. The complete forgiveness and transformation of deeds should inspire believers to perfect their fasting and increase in gratitude.