Hadith #5023

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

In this profound Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), he beautifully states,

What a good helper of worship night vigil is!

This Hadith emphasizes the importance and virtue of engaging in night prayers, also known as Tahajjud or Qiyam al-Layl.

Let us delve deeper into the words of this Hadith to understand its significance. The word (awun) "عَوْنُ" means "helper" or "supporter," while (al-'ibadah) "العِبادَةِ" refers to "worship." The term (as-sahar) "السَّهَرُ" translates to "night vigil" or

staying awake during the night.

The act of engaging in night prayers is a means of seeking closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and demonstrating our devotion and sincerity in worship. It is a time when the distractions of the world are minimized, allowing us to focus solely on our connection with the Divine.

The importance of night prayers is emphasized in the Quran, where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Muzzammil (73:2-4):

Arise [to pray] the night, except for a little - Half of it - or subtract from it a little Or add to it, and recite the Qur'an with measured recitation.

These verses highlight the flexibility in the duration of night prayers, indicating that even a short period of time dedicated to this act of worship holds immense value. It is a time when we can recite the Quran with measured recitation, reflecting upon its verses and seeking guidance from its wisdom.

Engaging in night prayers brings numerous benefits. It allows us to seek forgiveness for our sins, supplicate to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), and seek His blessings and mercy. It is a time when the gates of mercy are open, and our prayers are more readily accepted. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Dhariyat (51:17-18):

And in the hours before dawn they would ask forgiveness, From their wealth was [given] the right of the [needy] petitioner and the deprived.

This verse highlights the practice of seeking forgiveness and giving in charity during the early hours of the morning, which aligns with the concept of night prayers. It signifies the generosity and compassion that can be cultivated through this act of worship.

Engaging in night prayers also strengthens our relationship with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) and increases our spiritual awareness. It allows us to detach from worldly distractions and focus on our connection with the Divine. It is a time when we can reflect on our actions, seek repentance, and strive for self-improvement.

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known for his profound knowledge and spirituality, highlights the significance of night prayers in this Hadith. By referring to it as a "good helper," he emphasizes its role in assisting us in our journey of worship and spiritual growth.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) serves as a reminder of the importance of engaging in night prayers. It encourages us to make use of this blessed time to seek closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), seek forgiveness, and strengthen our relationship with Him. May we all strive to make night prayers a regular part of our worship, and may Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to benefit from its immense blessings.