Allah the Exalted also says: “Their sides forsake their beds as they call upon their Lord in fear and hope, and they spend out of what We have provided them; no soul knows what delights of the eye have been hidden for them as a reward for what they used to do” (Q 32:16-17).

Many texts point to the merit of the night vigil, and among unrestricted voluntary prayers the finest is standing at night. It is more easily kept secret, therefore nearer to sincerity; it coincides with a time when most people are heedless; and it embodies preferring worship over sleep and comfort.

It is recommended to perform voluntary prayers at all times except the periods in which prayer is prohibited.

For the reasons mentioned, prayer at night is superior to prayer during the day, and the best part of the night prayer is that offered in the third that follows the night’s halfway point. In the authentic collection it is authentically traced to the Prophet: “The best prayer is the prayer of David; he would sleep half the night, rise for one third of it, and sleep for one sixth.” Thus he would rest at the beginning of the night, then rise during the time when Allah calls out, “Is there anyone who asks so that I may grant him his request?” He would then sleep the final sixth so as to recuperate and greet the dawn prayer with energy. This is the optimum practice; otherwise, any part of the night is a valid time for standing in prayer.

Imam Ahmad—may Allah have mercy on him—said, “The period for the night prayer extends from sunset until the break of dawn.”