Hadith Text & Reference

"The Messenger of Allah said: 'When Ramadan comes, the gates of mercy are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained up."' (Sunan an-Nasa'i 2100)

Commentary on the Opening of Mercy's Gates

This signifies that during Ramadan, Allah's mercy descends abundantly upon His servants. The pathways to divine forgiveness and spiritual elevation become readily accessible to those who sincerely engage in worship.

The gates of Paradise are described in some narrations as being opened, indicating that righteous deeds performed in Ramadan carry immense weight and facilitate entry into eternal bliss.

Commentary on the Closing of Hell's Gates

This demonstrates Allah's profound mercy, as He restricts the pathways to punishment during this sacred month. It serves as both a protection for believers and an encouragement to increase in piety.

Scholars explain this as meaning either a literal closure or a significant reduction in the number of people entering Hell during Ramadan due to the prevalence of good deeds and divine forgiveness.

Commentary on the Chaining of Devils

The major devils (shayateen) are restrained from their usual influence, making it easier for believers to focus on worship and avoid sin. This divine assistance creates an environment conducive to spiritual growth.

However, scholars caution that this does not eliminate all evil inclinations, as human nature (nafs) and minor whisperings remain. The believer must still exercise vigilance and self-restraint.

Practical Implications

This hadith from The Book of Fasting in Sunan an-Nasa'i emphasizes the unique spiritual opportunity Ramadan presents. Believers should maximize worship, Quran recitation, and charitable deeds during this blessed period.

The conditions described in the hadith apply specifically to those who honor Ramadan's sanctity. Those who willfully transgress may not fully benefit from these divine concessions.