The Book of Fasting - Sunan an-Nasa'i 2193

"Urwah bin Az-Zubair told me that 'Aishah told him: 'The Messenger of Allah went out in the middle of the night to pray in the Masjid, and he led the people in prayer; and he quoted the same Hadith, in which she said: 'He used to encourage the people to pray Qiyam in Ramadan, without insisting on that.' He said: 'Whoever spends the night of Lailat Al-Qadr in prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward, he will be forgiven his previous sins.' He said: 'And the Messenger of Allah passed away when this was the state of affairs.""'

Commentary on the Night Prayer in Ramadan

This noble hadith from the Mother of the Believers, 'Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her), transmitted through the reliable narrator Urwah ibn Az-Zubair, establishes several important principles regarding the night prayers during Ramadan. The Prophet's practice demonstrates that Tarawih prayers are a confirmed Sunnah, though not obligatory.

The phrase "without insisting on that" indicates the recommended (mustahabb) nature of congregational Tarawih, distinguishing it from obligatory prayers. This reflects the mercy of Islamic law, accommodating different capabilities among believers.

The Excellence of Laylat al-Qadr

The promise of forgiveness for previous sins for one who prays on Laylat al-Qadr with sincere faith (iman) and hopeful expectation (ihtisab) demonstrates the immense virtue of this blessed night. Scholars explain that "previous sins" refers to minor sins, as major sins require specific repentance.

The condition of "faith" means believing in Allah's promise, while "hope of reward" signifies performing the prayer solely for Allah's pleasure, not for show or other worldly motives. This combination of correct belief and pure intention is essential for attaining this great reward.

Historical Context and Continuity

The final statement that the Prophet passed away while this practice continued indicates that congregational Tarawih prayer remained the established practice until the end of his life. Later, during Caliph Umar's time, the practice was organized into a single congregation behind one imam for the community's benefit.

This hadith serves as foundational evidence for the legitimacy of praying Tarawih in congregation during Ramadan nights and emphasizes the special status of worship during Laylat al-Qadr, encouraging Muslims to maximize their worship during the last ten nights of Ramadan.