The Book of Fasting - Sunan an-Nasa'i

Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 2199

Hadith Text

"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."

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith establishes the immense virtue of performing night prayers during Ramadan, known as Qiyam or Taraweeh. The phrase "out of faith" (imanan) indicates the necessity of correct belief and sincerity, while "in the hope of reward" (ihtisaban) signifies performing the act purely for Allah's pleasure.

The scholars explain that "previous sins" refers to minor sins, as major sins require specific repentance. This spiritual opportunity demonstrates Allah's boundless mercy, where through voluntary night worship, a believer can attain purification. The condition of performing these prayers "during Ramadan nights" highlights the special status of this blessed month when rewards are multiplied and divine mercy descends abundantly.

This hadith serves as a powerful encouragement for Muslims to revive the nights of Ramadan with prayer, recitation of Qur'an, and remembrance of Allah, seeking thereby the forgiveness and pleasure of the Most Merciful.