'A'isha (Allah be pleased with her) reported that when the last ten nights began Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) kept awake at night (for prayer and devotion), wakened his family, and prepared himself to observe prayer (with more vigour).
The Book of I'tikaf - Sahih Muslim 1174
This narration from the Mother of the Believers, 'A'isha (may Allah be pleased with her), describes the blessed practice of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) during the final ten nights of Ramadan. These nights are distinguished by containing Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree), which is better than a thousand months.
Spiritual Vigilance in the Last Ten Nights
The Prophet's action of "keeping awake at night" signifies intensified worship during these precious nights. This includes additional prayers, Qur'an recitation, dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and seeking forgiveness. The scholars explain that this practice demonstrates the supreme importance of maximizing worship when blessings are multiplied.
The phrase "wakened his family" shows the Prophet's concern for his household's spiritual welfare and teaches us to encourage our families in righteous deeds. This collective spiritual awakening creates an environment conducive to worship throughout the household.
Preparation and Renewed Devotion
"Prepared himself to observe prayer with more vigour" indicates both physical and spiritual preparation. The classical commentators mention that this includes performing ghusl (ritual bath), wearing clean clothes, using siwak, and purifying one's intention - all to enhance the quality of worship during these sacred nights.
This comprehensive approach teaches us that seeking Laylat al-Qadr requires both external preparation and internal spiritual focus, combining individual effort with family involvement in worship during the most blessed time of the most blessed month.