Fath al-Rabbani

Benefits: … Imam Mubarakpuri rahimahullah said: By "ghasiq" is meant the moon or the night, when the redness (of sunset) disappears. When the moon is eclipsed, the word "waqab" is also used for that. The reason why the Prophet sallallahu alayhi wa sallam sought refuge from the lunar eclipse is that it is a sign of Allah, which indicates calamity and trial. The second meaning is that "ghasiq" refers to the night, when its darkness spreads towards the east. The reason for seeking refuge from the night is that calamities and disasters become widespread at night. According to one opinion, "ghasiq" refers to the Thurayya (Pleiades) star, when it falls and sets. Ibn Jarir said in his Tafsir: In my view, the better opinion is that Allah commanded His Prophet sallallahu alayhi wa sallam to seek refuge from the evil of the "ghasiq." When the night enters into darkness, it is called "ghasiq"; when a star sets, it is called "ghasiq"; and when the moon dominates, it is also called "ghasiq." Therefore, "ghasiq" should not be restricted to a specific meaning, but rather, it should be kept general and refuge should be sought from it. (Summarized from: Tuhfat al-Ahwadhi: 9/213)