Question

What is meant by “when the darkness of the night envelopes” in the following Hadith? Which time is it referring to?

‘Ata (rahimahullah) related that he heard Jabir ibn ‘Abdullah (radiyallahu ‘anhu) say that the Prophet (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said,

“When the darkness of the night envelops–or it becomes nightfall–withhold your children (from going outside). Verily, the Jinn spread out at this time. Then, when part of the night has passed, let them go outside. And lock the doors whilst mentioning Allah’s name.” [Bukhari, Chapter of the Beginning of Creation]

Answer

The commentators of Hadith explain that this refers to the period immediately after sunset when darkness starts to creep in. The Shayatin find it easier to roam about at this time as darkness assists them to attain their full strength.

(Refer: Fathul Bari and ‘Umdatul Qari under Hadith: 3280. Also see Mirqat, Hadith: 4294)

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best,

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar