"The Messenger of Allah used to encourage (us) to pray Qiyam during Ramadan, without insisting on that, and he said: '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'
The Book of Fasting - Sunan an-Nasa'i 2198
"The Messenger of Allah used to encourage (us) to pray Qiyam during Ramadan, without insisting on that, and he said: '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'"
Commentary on the Excellence of Night Prayer in Ramadan
This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) establishes the immense virtue of performing Qiyam al-Layl (night prayer) during the blessed nights of Ramadan. The Prophet's approach demonstrates divine wisdom - he encouraged this practice without making it obligatory, showing mercy to his ummah while highlighting its great reward.
The phrase "out of faith" (imanan) indicates that the believer must have firm conviction in Allah's promise and perform this act purely for His sake. "In the hope of reward" (ihtisaban) signifies performing this worship with sincere intention, seeking only Allah's pleasure and the promised reward, without ostentation or worldly motives.
The comprehensive forgiveness of previous sins mentioned here applies to minor sins, as major sins require specific repentance. This great reward is specifically connected to Ramadan nights, which include the Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr) - better than a thousand months. The combination of fasting by day and praying by night during Ramadan represents the pinnacle of worship that cleanses the soul and earns divine forgiveness.
Scholarly Insights
Imam al-Nawawi comments that this hadith demonstrates the superiority of voluntary night prayers in Ramadan over other times. The collective performance of Taraweeh prayers in congregation is included in this great reward.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali explains that the forgiveness encompasses all previous minor sins, while major sins require genuine repentance. The phrase "spends the nights" includes even partial night prayer, showing Allah's immense generosity.
Al-Munawi notes that this encouragement without obligation reflects the Prophet's compassionate leadership, making religion easy while motivating towards excellence through the promise of magnificent rewards.