The Book of Fasting - Sunan an-Nasa'i 2200

"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 Hadith

This noble hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i highlights the immense virtue of performing night prayers during Ramadan. The phrase "out of faith" indicates the necessity of correct belief and sincerity, while "in the hope of reward" shows the importance of performing deeds solely for Allah's pleasure.

The term "Qiyam" refers to the voluntary night prayers, particularly Taraweeh, which are distinctive to Ramadan nights. The promise of forgiveness for previous sins demonstrates Allah's immense mercy and the special status of Ramadan as a month of purification and spiritual renewal.

Scholars explain that this forgiveness applies to minor sins, as major sins require specific repentance. The hadith encourages Muslims to maximize their worship during Ramadan nights, combining fasting during the day with prayer at night for complete spiritual fulfillment.

Practical Implementation

Muslims should strive to attend Taraweeh prayers in congregation and supplement them with Tahajjud prayers during the last third of the night. Consistency in these night prayers, even if brief, is more beloved to Allah than sporadic lengthy prayers.

The combination of fasting and night prayer embodies the complete worship that Ramadan demands, purifying both the body through fasting and the soul through nightly devotion, leading to the promised forgiveness and spiritual elevation.