"Whoever spends the nights of Ramadan in prayer (Qiyam) out of faith and in the hope of reward, he will be forgiven his previous sins." '
Hadith Text & Reference
"Whoever spends the nights of Ramadan in prayer (Qiyam) out of faith and in the hope of reward, he will be forgiven his previous sins."
Source: Sunan an-Nasa'i 2191 | The Book of Fasting
Meaning & Significance
This noble hadith establishes the immense virtue of performing Qiyam (night prayer) during Ramadan. The phrase "out of faith" indicates sincere belief in Allah's promise, while "in the hope of reward" shows pure intention seeking only divine pleasure, not worldly recognition.
The promised reward—forgiveness of previous sins—demonstrates Allah's boundless mercy. Scholars clarify this refers to minor sins, as major sins require specific repentance. The nights specifically refer to the time after Isha prayer until Fajr, with special emphasis on the last third of the night.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam an-Nawawi explains that "Qiyam" here primarily refers to Tarawih prayers, though it includes all night worship. The condition of faith (iman) requires correct belief in Islamic tenets, while hopeful expectation (ihtisab) necessitates sincerity free from hypocrisy.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali notes this forgiveness is a distinctive mercy of Ramadan, combining the virtues of fasting by day and praying by night. The previous sins forgiven are those between one Ramadan and the next for those who regularly observe this practice, showing Allah's continuous mercy upon His servants.
Practical Implementation
Muslims should strive to pray Tarawih in congregation and additional night prayers, particularly during the last ten nights seeking Laylat al-Qadr. The quality of prayer with humility and contemplation is superior to mere quantity performed hastily.
This hadith encourages consistency in night worship throughout Ramadan, not just selected nights. One should begin with what is manageable, even if few rak'ahs, and gradually increase while maintaining proper recitation and devotion, thus combining both the outward act and inward presence of heart.