He who prayed on the Lailat-ul-Qadr (the Majestic Night) knowing that it is (the same night). I (believe) that he (the Prophet also) said: (He who does) it with faith and seeking reward (from Allah), his sins would be forgiven.
The Excellence of Prayer on Laylat al-Qadr
The Book of Prayer - Travellers, Sahih Muslim, Hadith: Sahih Muslim 760 b
Textual Analysis
This noble hadith establishes three essential conditions for attaining forgiveness of sins through worship on Laylat al-Qadr: performing prayer, possessing certain knowledge of the night's occurrence, and maintaining sincere faith while seeking divine reward.
Scholarly Commentary
The phrase "knowing that it is" indicates that mere coincidence of prayer is insufficient; one must consciously recognize the night's sanctity. The element of "faith" refers to firm belief in Allah's promise of forgiveness, while "seeking reward" denotes pure intention free from ostentation. The comprehensive forgiveness encompasses both minor and major sins, though scholars differ regarding whether it applies to rights owed to other creatures.
Legal Implications
This hadith encourages Muslims to vigilantly seek Laylat al-Qadr during the last ten nights of Ramadan, particularly the odd-numbered nights. The emphasis on "prayer" includes both obligatory and supererogatory prayers, with special merit given to lengthy recitation and devout standing in prayer. The promise of complete forgiveness serves as divine encouragement for spiritual exertion during these blessed nights.