every time it was her night for the Messenger of Allah to stay with her, he would go out at the end of the night to Al-Baqi' and say: "As-salamu 'alaykum dara qawmin mu'minin, wa inna wa iyyakum mutawa'idun ghadan wa mutawakilun, wa inna in sha' Allahu bikum lahiqun. Allahummaghfir li ahli baqi'il gharaqad. (Peace be upon you, O abode of believing people. You and we used to remind one another about the Day of Resurrection and we are relying on one another (with regard to intercession and bearing witness). Soon we will join you, if Allah willing. O Allah, forgive the people of Baqi' Al-Charqad.)"
Hadith Commentary: The Prophet's Nightly Visit to Al-Baqi'
This narration from Sunan an-Nasa'i (2039) reveals the profound spiritual practice of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ, wherein he would visit the cemetery of Al-Baqi' during the latter portion of the night whenever it was his turn to be with 'A'isha (may Allah be pleased with her).
Spiritual Significance of the Timing
The Prophet's choice to visit at night's end holds deep wisdom. This period is when hearts are most tender, distractions minimal, and divine proximity most accessible. It demonstrates that even in moments of marital comfort, the Prophet maintained consciousness of the Hereafter.
Exegesis of the Supplication
"Peace be upon you, O abode of believing people" - This salutation affirms that Muslims should greet the deceased, recognizing their continued existence in the barzakh (intermediate realm).
"You and we used to remind one another about the Day of Resurrection" - This indicates the mutual reminder between living and dead concerning accountability before Allah.
"Soon we will join you, if Allah wills" - Expresses certainty of death while submitting to divine decree through "in sha' Allah."
"O Allah, forgive the people of Baqi' Al-Gharqad" - The specific prayer for inhabitants of this Medina cemetery teaches us to make du'a for particular communities of believers.
Juridical Rulings Derived
Permissibility of visiting graves for both men and women (though scholars differ regarding women's visitation).
Legitimacy of speaking to the deceased, though they cannot respond in manner audible to us.
Recommendation to pray for forgiveness for specific groups of believers.
The importance of constant remembrance of death and the Hereafter, even during times of worldly comfort.
Spiritual Benefits
This practice softens the heart, diminishes attachment to worldly life, increases preparation for the Hereafter, and strengthens the bond between living and deceased believers through continued prayer and remembrance.