I spent the night in the house of my mother's sister, Maimuna, and observed how the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) prayed (at night). He got up and relieved himself. He then washed his face and hands and then went to sleep. He again got up and went near the water-skin and loosened its straps and then poured some water in a bowl and inclined it with his hands (towards himself). He then performed a good ablution between the two extremes and then stood up to pray. I also came and stood by his left side. He took hold of me and made me stand on his right side. It was in thirteen rak`ahs that the (night) prayer of the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was completed. He then slept till he began to snore, and we knew that he had gone to sleep by his snoring. He then went out (for the dawn prayer), and said while praying or prostrating himself: "O Allah! place light in my heart, light in my hearing, light in my sight, light on my right, light on my left, light in front of me, light behind me, light above me, light below me, make light for me," or he said: "Make me light."
Narrated by Ibn `Abbas said:
Context
Ibn `Abbas describes his experience of observing the night prayer of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) at his aunt Maimuna's house. The Prophet performed a thorough ablution and prayed thirteen rak`ahs, demonstrating the importance of cleanliness and the spiritual depth of night prayers. His supplication during prostration reflects a profound yearning for divine guidance and light.
Modern Application
Incorporating the practice of performing wudu and engaging in night prayers can enhance one's spiritual routine. This not only fosters a sense of discipline but also allows for introspection and connection with Allah, especially during the stillness of the night.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Prayer, Spiritual Reflection, and Night Prayer (Tahajjud) because it illustrates the Prophet's method of prayer and the significance of spiritual cleanliness and reflection during night worship.
Establish prayer at the decline of the sun [from its meridian] until the darkness of the night and [also] the Qur'an of dawn. Indeed, the recitation of dawn is ever witnessed.
Indeed, your Lord knows, [O Muhammad], that you stand [in prayer] almost two thirds of the night or half of it or a third of it, and [so do] a group of those with you. And Allah determines [the extent of] the night and the day. He has known that you [Muslims] will not be able to do it and has turned to you in forgiveness, so recite what is easy [for you] of the Qur'an. He has known that there will be among you those who are ill and others traveling throughout the land seeking [something] of the bounty of Allah and others fighting for the cause of Allah. So recite what is easy from it and establish prayer and give zakah and loan Allah a goodly loan. And whatever good you put forward for yourselves - you will find it with Allah. It is better and greater in reward. And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.