was superior and more pleasing to Allah, and whatever was easiest on his own body; for a person has a right over himself, as he (peace and blessings be upon him) said to ʿAbdullāh ibn ʿAmr ibn al-ʿĀṣ: “Your own self has a claim upon you.” Allah is the One who grants success.

1171 – ʿĀʾishah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) used to pray eleven rakʿahs—meaning at night. In every prostration he would remain down for as long as it takes one of you to recite fifty verses before lifting his head. He would then pray two rakʿahs before the dawn prayer and lie on his right side until the caller came to summon him to the prayer. Reported by al-Bukhārī.

1172 – She also said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) never exceeded eleven rakʿahs in Ramadan or at any other time. He would pray four rakʿahs—do not ask about their beauty and length—then pray another four—do not ask about their beauty and length—then pray three.

I asked, “Messenger of Allah, do you sleep before performing witr?” He replied, “ʿĀʾishah, my eyes sleep but my heart does not.” Agreed upon.

1173 – She (may Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) would sleep during the first part of the night and stand in prayer during its last part. Agreed upon.