"The Messenger of Allah 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, and 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."'
Hadith Text & Reference
"The Messenger of Allah 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, and 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.'"
Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 2207, The Book of Fasting
Commentary on the Virtues of Night Prayer
This noble hadith establishes two tremendous opportunities for forgiveness: performing Qiyam during Ramadan nights and specifically during Laylat al-Qadr. The phrase "out of faith" (imanan) signifies firm belief in Allah's promise, while "in the hope of reward" (ihtisaban) indicates performing the act purely for Allah's pleasure, not for show.
The scholars explain that "previous sins" refers to minor sins, as major sins require specific repentance. The combination of faith and sincere intention transforms the night prayer into an act that erases past transgressions, demonstrating Allah's immense mercy.
The Distinction Between Ramadan & Laylat al-Qadr
The hadith mentions two distinct rewards: one for praying throughout Ramadan's nights, and a separate, greater reward for praying on Laylat al-Qadr. This indicates the special status of the Night of Decree, which is better than a thousand months.
Scholars note that the repetition of the forgiveness promise for Laylat al-Qadr emphasizes its superior merit. A believer should therefore intensify worship during the last ten nights of Ramadan, seeking this blessed night through increased devotion, supplication, and recitation of the Quran.
Practical Implementation
The night prayer (Tahajjud/Qiyam) can be performed after Isha until Fajr, with the most virtuous time being the last third of the night. It is recommended to pray in congregation during Ramadan (Tarawih), though individual prayer is also valid.
One should maintain consistency in night worship throughout Ramadan, while particularly exerting effort during the odd-numbered nights of the last ten days when Laylat al-Qadr is most likely to occur. This comprehensive approach ensures the believer obtains both rewards mentioned in the hadith.