Question

Is it Sunnah to turn on all of the lights in one’s house just before Maghrib, or is that just a Bangladeshi/Indian tradition?

Answer

I have not come across a narration to substantiate switching on the lights at Maghrib time. However, in authentic Hadiths, we have been ordered to bring children indoors when Maghrib sets in. The Shayatin find it easier to roam about at this time as darkness assists them in achieving their full strength. See here.

It is perhaps due to this that the people mentioned in your query switch on the lights at Maghrib time.

I haven’t seen any other clear narration on this. Neither have I seen any of the senior Scholars encouraging this practice.

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar