"The Messenger of Allah commanded me to sleep after praying Witr, to perform Ghusl on Friday and to fast three days of each month." (Sahih).
Hadith Commentary: The Book of Fasting
This narration from Sunan an-Nasa'i 2407 contains three distinct commandments from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), each carrying profound spiritual wisdom and practical benefit for the believer's life.
Sleeping After Witr Prayer
The instruction to sleep after performing Witr indicates that this prayer should be the final act of worship before retiring for the night. Scholars explain that this preserves the blessing of ending one's day with this special prayer, which the Prophet described as "confirmed for you" (Sahih Muslim). Sleeping afterward ensures no further voluntary prayers dilute its status as the night's conclusion.
Friday Ghusl (Ritual Bath)
The command to perform Ghusl on Friday is for the Jumu'ah prayer congregation. Classical commentators emphasize this purifies the body for the weekly gathering, which carries the spiritual weight of Eid. Imam Nawawi states this purification honors the day's sanctity and prepares the believer physically and spiritually for collective worship, enhancing both personal purity and communal harmony.
Fasting Three Days Monthly
Fasting three days each month is among the most virtuous voluntary acts. Scholars note these are typically the "white days" (13th, 14th, 15th of the lunar month) when the moon is full. Ibn Abbas explained this practice atones for minor sins and multiplies rewards, equivalent to fasting perpetually. The consistent monthly observance cultivates continuous piety and self-restraint throughout the year.
Unified Wisdom
These three commandments collectively address different aspects of worship: nightly conclusion (Witr), weekly purification (Friday Ghusl), and monthly devotion (fasting). Together they create a comprehensive spiritual routine that balances various forms of worship throughout different time cycles, demonstrating Islam's holistic approach to nurturing constant God-consciousness.