the moon during an eclipse.

Moreover, no linguist says that wuqūb means an eclipse. Rather, it means entering, as in the expression waqabat al-‘ayn, meaning that the eye has sunk into its socket, and rakiyyah waqbā’, meaning a well whose water has receded deep into the earth. From the same root comes waqb, the hole into which an axle fits. The Arabs say waqaba, yaqibu, wuqūban, meaning “to enter.”

If it is asked: What do you say about the view held by some that “the darkness” refers to the Pleiades when they set, since illnesses become more prevalent when they descend and set, and disappear when they rise?

The answer is: If the proponent of this view means that “the darkness” refers exclusively to the star when it sets, this is false. But if he means that the designation “the darkness” encompasses this in some respect, then the wording may convey that through its implied meaning, intended sense, and what it points to. To restrict the wording exclusively to this, however, is false.

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The reason Allah commanded seeking refuge from the evil of the night and the evil of the moon when it settles is that, when night falls, it is the time when wicked, evil spirits hold sway and devils spread abroad.

It is related in the Sahīh that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) stated that devils spread abroad when the sun sets. Hence he said:

“Keep your children indoors and confine your livestock until the initial darkness of night has passed.”

Another hadith states:

“For Allah sends forth whatever He wills of His creation.”

Night is the time of darkness. During it, the devils among humans and jinn exercise a power they do not exercise by day. Daytime is light, whereas devils hold sway in darkness, in dark places, and over people of darkness.

It is related that someone asked Musaylimah, “How does he come to you?” He replied, “In pitch-black darkness.”

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was asked, “How does he come to you?” He replied, “In something like daylight.”