Sa'eed bin Abi Sa'eed Al-Maqburi narrated that Abu Salamah informed him that he had asked Aishah: "How was the Salat of Allah's Messenger (A) [at night] during Ramadan?" She said: "Allah's Messenger (S) would pray - neither in Ramadan nor in any other month - more than eleven Rak'ah. He would pray four, and do not ask about their excellence or length, then he would pray four, and do not ask about their excellence or length, then he would pray three." Aishah said: "I asked: 'O Messenger of Allah! Do you sleep before having performed Witr?" He said: 'O Aishah! Indeed my eyes sleep but my heart does not sleep.'"
The Book on Salat (Prayer)
Jami' at-Tirmidhi - Hadith 439
Narration Context
This blessed narration from the Mother of Believers Aishah (رضي الله عنها) describes the night prayer of Allah's Messenger (صلى الله عليه وسلم) during Ramadan and other months, clarifying the number and pattern of his voluntary night prayers.
Scholarly Commentary
The Prophet's practice of eleven rak'ah demonstrates the moderate path in worship. His four rak'ah units indicate praying in pairs, as confirmed in other authentic narrations, followed by Witr of three rak'ah.
The phrase "do not ask about their excellence or length" indicates the profound quality and duration of his prayer, reflecting complete devotion and submission to Allah.
The Prophet's statement "my eyes sleep but my heart does not sleep" reveals the spiritual state of the Prophets - their physical faculties may rest while their hearts remain connected to Allah, ever-mindful of their Lord.
Legal Rulings
This hadith establishes the recommended number for night prayer as eleven rak'ah, though scholars differ whether this is fixed or flexible. The majority hold it as recommended rather than obligatory.
The practice of praying Witr at the end of night prayers is confirmed, with three rak'ah being the most common form practiced by the Prophet.
Spiritual Benefits
This narration teaches balance in worship - neither excessive nor deficient. It emphasizes quality over quantity in prayer, where the inner state matters more than mere outward form.
The Prophet's example inspires believers to develop constant awareness of Allah, where the heart remains spiritually awake even during physical rest.