Abu Huraira reported God’s messenger as saying, “Ramadan, a blessed month, has come to you during which God has made it obligatory for you to fast. In it the gates of heaven are opened, the gates of al-Jahim are locked, and the rebellious devils are chained. In it God has a night which is better than a thousand months. He who is deprived of its good has indeed suffered deprivation." Ahmad and Nasa’i transmitted it.
The Excellence of Ramadan
This blessed hadith from Mishkat al-Masabih 1962 enumerates the distinctive virtues Allah has bestowed upon the month of Ramadan, making it a unique period for spiritual elevation and divine proximity.
Divine Mandate of Fasting
The declaration "God has made it obligatory for you to fast" establishes Ramadan's fasting as a fundamental pillar (rukn) of Islam. This obligation (fard) is a means of attaining taqwa (God-consciousness) and purifying the soul from base desires.
Cosmic Transformations
The opening of heaven's gates signifies divine mercy and acceptance of deeds. The locking of Jahannam's gates demonstrates Allah's forbearance. The chaining of rebellious devils reduces their whisperings, facilitating worship and easing the path of obedience for believers.
The Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr)
The "night better than a thousand months" refers to Laylat al-Qadr, a night of immense divine decree and blessings. Worship during this single night surpasses that of over eighty-three years, emphasizing the extraordinary spiritual opportunity Ramadan presents.
The Ultimate Deprivation
The severe warning "He who is deprived of its good has indeed suffered deprivation" underscores that failing to attain Ramadan's spiritual benefits constitutes the greatest loss. True deprivation is not poverty but being barred from divine mercy and forgiveness.