When there comes the month of Ramadan, the gates of mercy are opened, and the gates of Hell are locked and the devils are chained,
The Book of Fasting - Sahih Muslim 1079a
This narration from Sahih Muslim describes the spiritual transformation that occurs with the advent of Ramadan. The opening of mercy's gates signifies divine compassion flowing abundantly, while the locking of Hell's gates represents divine protection from punishment for those who sincerely observe the fast.
Scholarly Commentary
According to classical scholars like Imam Nawawi, the "opening of mercy's gates" means Allah makes His mercy more accessible and acceptance of deeds more likely for fasting believers. The "locking of Hell's gates" indicates reduced opportunities for major sins and divine safeguarding from eternal punishment.
The "chaining of devils" is understood by scholars as both literal and metaphorical - while some devils are physically restrained, the primary meaning is that believers receive special divine assistance to resist temptations that would normally lead them astray.
Spiritual Implications
This hadith emphasizes that Ramadan creates a unique spiritual environment where obstacles to righteousness are minimized and divine assistance is maximized. The believer who recognizes this reality should approach the month with heightened hope and determination to maximize worship.
Scholars note that these special conditions require corresponding spiritual effort - the chains on devils don't prevent all sin, but rather make evil whispers weaker, allowing the sincere believer to focus more easily on worship and self-purification.