Hadith #5020

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his purified progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the importance of engaging in the remembrance of Allah during the night, highlighting its significance for the believers. Let us delve into the profound meanings of this Hadith in light of the Quran.

The key words in this Hadith are (keeping vigil at night) "سَهَرُ العُيُونِ" and (remembrance of Allah) "ذِكْرِ اللّهِ". The word "سَهَرُ" refers to staying awake or being vigilant, while "عُيُونِ" means eyes. Thus, "سَهَرُ العُيُونِ" signifies staying awake during the night, dedicating oneself to the worship and remembrance of Allah.

The phrase (remembrance of Allah) "ذِكْرِ اللّهِ" encompasses various acts of worship, such as recitation of the Quran, supplication, and reflection upon the greatness of Allah. It is a comprehensive term that encompasses all forms of devotion that bring one closer to Allah.

The Quran emphasizes the virtue and rewards of engaging in the remembrance of Allah. In Surah Al-Ankabut (29:45), Allah says,

Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows that which you do.

This verse highlights the superiority of the remembrance of Allah over other acts of worship, as it serves as a means of purifying the soul and preventing one from engaging in sinful behavior.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Rad (13:28), Allah states,

Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah, hearts are assured.

This verse emphasizes the tranquility and peace that comes from engaging in the remembrance of Allah. It brings solace to the hearts of the believers and strengthens their faith.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith highlights the profound benefits of staying awake during the night and engaging in the remembrance of Allah. It is during the stillness of the night that one can find solace and draw closer to Allah. By dedicating this time to the remembrance of Allah, one can experience spiritual growth, increased mindfulness, and a deeper connection with the Creator.

The opportunity for felicity mentioned in the Hadith refers to the immense rewards and blessings that Allah bestows upon those who engage in His remembrance. It is a time when the doors of mercy and forgiveness are open, and one can seek closeness to Allah. The promenade of the friends of Allah signifies the company and companionship of the righteous and pious individuals who also dedicate their nights to the remembrance of Allah. By engaging in this noble act, one can join the ranks of the righteous and seek their guidance and blessings.

The consequences of neglecting the remembrance of Allah during the night are manifold. It can lead to a spiritual void, a weakening of faith, and a disconnection from the divine. By neglecting this opportunity, one may miss out on the blessings and rewards that come with engaging in the remembrance of Allah.

Reflecting upon this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of utilizing the night as a time for spiritual growth and connection with Allah. It is a time when distractions are minimal, and the heart is more receptive to the remembrance of Allah. By dedicating even a portion of the night to the worship of Allah, we can experience the tranquility and blessings that come with it.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the significance of staying awake during the night and engaging in the remembrance of Allah. It highlights the rewards, blessings, and spiritual growth that come with dedicating this time to worship. May Allah grant us the ability to follow the guidance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and seek His pleasure through the remembrance of Allah during the night.