Hadith Text

It is reported on the authority of 'A'isha that the prayer of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) in the night consisted of ten rak'ahs. He observed a Witr and two rak'ahs (of Sunan) of the dawn prayer, and thus the total comes to thirteen rak'ahs.

Commentary

This narration from the Mother of the Believers, 'A'isha (may Allah be pleased with her), elucidates the nightly prayer practice of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The ten rak'ahs refer to the voluntary night prayers (Tahajjud/Qiyam al-Layl), which demonstrate the Prophet's devotion beyond obligatory worship.

The Witr prayer, mentioned separately, is the concluding odd-numbered prayer of the night. Its distinction emphasizes its importance as a confirmed Sunnah. The two rak'ahs of dawn (Sunan al-Fajr) are the supererogatory prayer before the obligatory Fajr, showing the Prophet's meticulous adherence to the prayer timetable.

The total of thirteen rak'ahs represents the complete nightly devotional practice. Scholars note this demonstrates flexibility in night prayer, as other authentic narrations mention different numbers, indicating the Prophet's adaptation to circumstances while maintaining consistent worship.

Juridical Significance

This hadith establishes the legitimacy of varying numbers of rak'ahs in night prayers. The ten rak'ahs before Witr indicate that night prayer isn't fixed to eight rak'ahs, providing flexibility for worshippers.

The separation of Witr from the ten rak'ahs confirms it as a distinct prayer. The inclusion of the two Sunan al-Fajr rak'ahs in the total count shows their integral connection to the night prayers, despite being performed at dawn.

Spiritual Dimensions

The Prophet's consistent performance of thirteen rak'ahs nightly exemplifies the middle path in worship - neither excessive nor deficient. This balanced approach encourages believers to maintain regular night prayers without overburdening themselves.

The practice demonstrates the comprehensive nature of Islamic worship, combining obligatory prayers with supererogatory acts to attain nearness to Allah. The nightly vigil reflects the spiritual discipline required for spiritual purification and divine connection.