Is it permissible to perform all of the night vigil (qiyam al-layl) daily by reading from the Mushaf, or does this contradict the Prophetic Sunnah, especially given the hadith, "Whoever prays with a thousand verses will be recorded among the muqantereens (those who have been granted a qintar of reward)"? And is it better to limit the recitation to what is memorized and dedicate the remaining time to memorizing more surahs?
Many scholars disliked standing the entire night in prayer, based on the Prophet's prohibition of it. Among the proofs indicating the dislike of standing the entire night in prayer is the Prophet's saying: "Take up such deeds as you are able, for by Allah, Allah does not weary until you weary."
The reward for standing in night prayer can be attained by reciting a portion of the night. For example, reciting a thousand verses from Surat Al-Mulk to the end of the Qur'an can achieve this reward.
Jurists differed on the ruling of reciting from the Mushaf (physical copy of the Qur'an) during Qiyam (night prayer). The preponderant opinion is its permissibility, especially in supererogatory prayers when needed, such as due to a weak memory, based on what was narrated from Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) that her slave Dhakwan used to lead her in prayer from the Mushaf during Ramadan.
A Muslim is advised to pray from the night what they are able, without overexerting themselves, to ensure continuity, for "Allah does not get tired until you get tired, and the most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are continuous, even if they are few."
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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