Is it permissible to perform Qiyam al-Layl (night prayer) solely by seeking forgiveness (Istighfar)?

Reviving and observing the night involves filling it with acts of obedience such as remembrance (dhikr), supplications (du'a), reciting the Quran, and prayer (salat). Seeking forgiveness (istighfar) is part of remembrance and supplication. Allah has praised those who seek forgiveness in the pre-dawn hours, and it is among the best acts of drawing closer to Allah and acts of obedience, especially during the latter part of the night. Prayer at night is the best activity a servant can engage in because it encompasses supplication, seeking forgiveness, and reciting the Quran. Reciting the Quran is superior to glorifying Allah (tasbih), supplication, and seeking forgiveness. Therefore, the best way to observe the night is through prayer, then reciting the Quran, then remembrance, supplication, and seeking forgiveness.