Hadees on ADHAN

Hadees on ADHAN       Sahih Bukhari Hadith

1. 'Whenever you pronounce Adhan for prayer ...'
Hadith 1.577 Narrated by Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The people mentioned the fire and the bell (they suggested those as signals to indicate the starting of prayers), and by that they mentioned the Jews and the Christians. Then Bilal was ordered to pronounce Adhan for the prayer by saying its wordings twice and for the Iqama (the call for the actual standing for the prayers in rows) by saying its wordings once. (Iqama is pronounced when the people are ready for the prayer).
Hadith 1.578 Narrated by Ibn Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
When the Muslims arrived at Medina, they used to assemble for the prayer, and used to guess the time for it. During those days, the practice of Adhan for the prayers had not been introduced yet. Once they discussed this problem regarding the call for prayer. Some people suggested the use of a bell like the Christians, others proposed a trumpet like the horn used by the Jews, but 'Umar was the first to suggest that a man should call (the people) for the prayer; so Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) ordered Bilal to get up and pronounce the Adhan for prayers.


2. Repeating the wording of Adhan twice

Hadith 1.579 Narrated by Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Bilal was ordered to repeat the wording of the Adhan for prayers twice, and to pronounce the wording of the Iqama once except "Qad-qamat-is-Salat".

Hadith 1.580 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
When the number of Muslims increased they discussed the question as to how to know the time for the prayer by some familiar means. Some suggested that a fire be lit (at the time of the prayer) and others put forward the proposal to ring the bell. Bilal was ordered to pronounce the wording of Adhan twice and of the Iqama once only.


3. Repeating the wording of Iqama once

Hadith 1.581 Narrated by Abu Qilaba (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Anas said, "Bilal was ordered to pronounce the wording of Adhan twice and of Iqama once only." The sub narrator Isma'il said, "I mentioned that to Aiyub and he added (to that), 'Except Iqama (i.e. Qad-Qamatis-Salat which should be said twice).' "

4. Superiority of Adhan

Hadith 1.582 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "When the Adhan is pronounced Satan takes to his heels and passes wind with noise during his flight in order not to hear the Adhan. When the Adhan is completed he comes back and again takes to his heels when the Iqama is pronounced and after its completion he returns again till he whispers into the heart of the person (to divert his attention from his prayer) and makes him remember things which he does not recall to his mind before the prayer and that causes him to forget how much he has prayed."


5. Raising the voice in pronouncing Adhan

Hadith 1.583 Narrated by Abdul Rahman (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri told my father, "I see you liking sheep and the wilderness. So whenever you are with your sheep or in the wilderness and you want to pronounce Adhan for the prayer raise your voice in doing so, for whoever hears the Adhan, whether a human being, a jinn or any other creature, will be a witness for you on the Day of Resurrection." Abu Said added, "I heard it (this narration) from Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)."


6. To suspend fighting on hearing Adhan

Hadith 1.584 Narrated by Humaid (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Anas bin Malik said, "Whenever the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) went out with us to fight (in Allah's cause) against any nation, he never allowed us to attack till morning and he would wait and see: if he heard Adhan he would postpone the attack and if he did not hear Adhan he would attack them." Anas added, "We reached Khaibar at night and in the morning when he did not hear the Adhan for the prayer, he (the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) ) rode and I rode behind Abi Talha and my foot was touching that of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam).
The inhabitants of Khaibar came out with their baskets and spades and when they saw the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) they shouted 'Muhammad! (Sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) By Allah, Muhammad (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and his army.' When Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) saw them, he said, 'Allahu-Akbar! Allahu-Akbar! Khaibar is ruined. Whenever we approach a (hostile) nation (to fight), then evil will be the morning of those who have been warned.' "


7. What to say on hearing Adhan

Hadith 1.585 Narrated by Abu Said Al Khudri (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Whenever you hear the Adhan, say what the Mu'adhdhin is saying."

Hadith 1.586 Narrated by Isa bin Talha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
That he had heard Muawiya repeating the words of Adhan up to "Wa ash-hadu Anna Muhammadan Rasulul-lah (and I testify that Muhammad is Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam).)"

Hadith 1.587 Narrated by Yahya (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) as above (586) and added
"Some of my companions told me that Hisham had said, 'When the Mu'adhdhin said, "Haiya alas-sala(t) (come for the prayer)." ' Muawiya said, "La hawla wala quwata illa billah (There is neither might nor any power except with Allah)" and added, "We heard your Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) saying the same."


8. Invocation at the time of Adhan

Hadith 1.588 Narrated by Jabir bin Abdullah (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Whoever after listening to the Adhan says, 'Allahumma Rabba hadhihi-d-da' watit-tammati was-salatil qa'imati, ati Muhammadan al-wasilata wal-fadilata, wab' athhu maqaman mahmudan-il-ladhi wa' adtahu (O Allah! Lord of this perfect call (of not ascribing partners to You) and of the regular prayer which is going to be established! Kindly give Muhammad (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) the right of intercession and superiority and send him (on the Day of Judgment) to the best and the highest place in Paradise which you promised him)', then intercession for me will be permitted for him on the Day of Resurrection)."


9. Drawing lots for pronouncing the Adhan

Hadith 1.589 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "If the people knew the reward for pronouncing the Adhan and for standing in the first row (in congregational prayers) and found no other way to get that except by drawing lots they would draw lots, and if they knew the reward of the Zuhr prayer (in the early moments of its stated time) they would race for it (go early) and if they knew the reward of 'Isha' and Fajr (morning) prayers in congregation, they would come to offer them even if they had to crawl."

10. Talking during the Adhan

Hadith 1.590 Narrated by Abdullah bin Al Harith (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Once on a rainy muddy day, Ibn 'Abbas delivered a sermon in our presence and when the Mu'adhdhin pronounced the Adhan and said, "Haiya ala-s-sala(t) (come for the prayer)" Ibn 'Abbas ordered him to say "Pray at your homes." The people began to look at each other (surprisingly). Ibn 'Abbas said. "It was done by one who was much better than I (i.e. the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) or his Mu'adhdhin), and it is a license."


11. Adhan pronounced by a blind man

Hadith 1.591 Narrated by Salim bin Abdullah (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
My father said that Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Bilal pronounces 'Adhan at night, so keep on eating and drinking (Suhur) till Ibn Um Maktum pronounces Adhan." Salim added, "He was a blind man who would not pronounce the Adhan unless he was told that the day had dawned."


12. Adhan after dawn

Hadith 1.592 Narrated by Hafsa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
When the Mu'adhdhin pronounced the Adhan for Fajr prayer and the dawn became evident the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) ordered a two Rakat light prayer (Sunna) before the Iqama of the compulsory (congregational) prayer.

Hadith 1.593 Narrated by Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) used to offer two light Rakat between the Adhan and the Iqama of the Fajr prayer.

Hadith 1.594 Narrated by Abdullah bin Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Bilal pronounces the Adhan at night, so keep on eating and drinking (Suhur) till Ibn Um Maktum pronounces the Adhan."


13. Adhan before dawn

Hadith 1.595 Narrated by Abdullah bin Masud (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "The Adhan pronounced by Bilal should not stop you from taking Suhur, for he pronounces the Adhan at night, so that the one offering the late night prayer (Tahajjud) from among you might hurry up and the sleeping from among you might wake up. It does not mean that dawn or morning has started." Then he (the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)) pointed with his fingers and raised them up (towards the sky) and then lowered them (towards the earth) like this (Ibn Mas'ud imitated the gesture of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)). Az-Zuhri gestured with his two index fingers which he put on each other and then stretched them to the right and left. These gestures illustrate the way real dawn appears. It spreads left and right horizontally. The dawn that appears in the high sky and lowers down is not the real dawn) .

Hadith 1.596 Narrated by Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Bilal pronounces the Adhan at night, so eat and drink (Suhur) till Ibn Um Maktum pronounces the Adhan."


14. The interval between the Adhan and the Iqama

Hadith 1.597 Narrated by Abdullah bin Mughaffal Al Muzani (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said thrice, "There is a prayer between the two Adhans (Adhan and Iqama)," and added, "For the one who wants to pray."

Hadith 1.598 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
"When the Mu'adhdhin pronounced the Adhan, some of the companions of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) would proceed to the pillars of the mosque (for the prayer) till the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) arrived and in this way they used to pray two Rakat before the Maghrib prayer. There used to be a little time between the Adhan and the Iqama." Shu'ba said, "There used to be a very short interval between the two (Adhan and Iqama)."


15. Waiting for the Imam of the prayer

Hadith 1.599 Narrated by Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) used to pray two light Rakat before the morning (compulsory) prayer after the day dawned and the Mu'adhdhin had finished his Adhan. He then would lie on his right side till the Mu'adhdhin came to pronounce the Iqama.


16. Optional prayers between Adhan and Iqama

Hadith 1.600 Narrated by Abdullah bin Mughaffal (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "There is a prayer between the two Adhans (Adhan and Iqama), there is a prayer between the two Adhans." And then while saying it the third time he added, "For the one who wants to (pray)."

17. Saying there should be one Mu'adhdhin

Hadith 1.601 Narrated by Malik bin Huwairth (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
I came to the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) with some men from my tribe and stayed with him for twenty nights. He was kind and merciful to us. When he realized our longing for our families, he said to us, "Go back and stay with your families and teach them the religion, and offer the prayer and one of you should pronounce the Adhan for the prayer when its time is due and the oldest one amongst you should lead the prayer."

18. Adhan and Iqama if travelers are many

Hadith 1.602 Narrated by Abu Dhar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
We were in the company of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) on a journey and the Mu'adhdhin wanted to pronounce the Adhan for the (Zuhr) prayer. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said to him, "Let it become cooler." Then he again wanted to pronounce the Adhan but the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam); said to him, "Let it become cooler." The Mu'adhdhin again wanted to pronounce the Adhan for the prayer but the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Let it become cooler," till the shadows of the hillocks become equal to their sizes. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) added, "The severity of the heat is from the raging of Hell."

Hadith 1.603 Narrated by Malik bin Huwairth (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Two men came to the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) with the intention of a journey. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "When (both of) you set out, pronounce Adhan and then Iqama and the oldest of you should lead the prayer."

Hadith 1.604 Narrated by Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
We came to the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and stayed with him for twenty days and nights. We were all young and of about the same age. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) was very kind and merciful. When he realized our longing for our families, he asked about our homes and the people there and we told him. Then he asked us to go back to our families and stay with them and teach them (the religion) and to order them to do good things. He also mentioned some other things which I have (remembered or) forgotten. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) then added, "Pray as you have seen me praying and when it is the time for the prayer one of you should pronounce the Adhan and the oldest of you should lead the prayer."

Hadith 1.605 Narrated by Nafi (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Once in a cold night, Ibn 'Umar pronounced the Adhan for the prayer at ,Dajnan (the name of a mountain) and then said, "Pray at your homes", and informed us that Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) used to tell the Mu'adhdhin to pronounce Adhan and say, "Pray at your homes" at the end of the Adhan on a rainy or a very cold night during the journey."

Hadith 1.606 Narrated by Aun bin Abi Juhaifa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
My father said, "I saw Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) at a place called Al-Abtah. Bilal came and informed him about the prayer and then came out with an Anza and planted it in front of Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) at Al-Abtah and pronounced the Iqama."

19. Mu'adhdhin turning his face during Adhan

Hadith 1.607 Narrated by Aun bin Abi Juhaifa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
My father said, "I saw Bilal (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) turning his face from side to side while pronouncing the Adhan for the prayer."

20. The statement: "We have missed the prayer"

Hadith 1.608 Narrated by Abdullah bin Abi Qatada (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
My father said, "While we were praying with the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) he heard the noise of some people. After the prayer he said, 'What is the matter?' They replied 'We were hurrying for the prayer.' He said, 'Do not make haste for the prayer, and whenever you come for the prayer, you should come with calmness, and pray whatever you get (with the people) and complete the rest which you have missed.' "

21. Running for the prayer

Hadith 1.609 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "When you hear the Iqama, proceed to offer the prayer with calmness and solemnity and do not make haste. And pray whatever you are able to pray and complete whatever you have missed."

22. Getting up for prayer during Iqama

Hadith 1.610 Narrated by Abdullah bin Abi Qatada (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
My father said. "Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, 'If the Iqama is pronounced then do not stand for the prayer till you see me (in front of you).' "

23. Getting up with calmness and solemnity

Hadith 1.611 Narrated by Abdullah bin Abi (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Qatada (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu), My father said, "Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, 'If the Iqama is pronounced, then do not stand for the prayer till you see me (in front of you) and do it calmly.' "

24. Leaving the mosque with genuine excuse

Hadith 1.612 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) went out (of the mosque) when the Iqama had been pronounced and the rows straightened. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) stood at his Musalla (praying place) and we waited for the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) to begin the prayer with Takbir. He left and asked us to remain in our places. We kept on standing till the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) returned and the water was trickling from his head for he had taken a bath (of Janaba).

25. Imam saying: "Remain in your places .."

Hadith 1.613 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Once iqama was pronounced and the people had straightened the rows, Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) went forward (to lead the prayer) but he was Junub, so he said, "Remain in your places." And he went out, took a bath and returned with water trickling from his head. Then he led the prayer.

26. "We have not prayed"

Hadith 1.614 Narrated by Jabir bin Abdullah (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
On the day of Al-Khandaq (the trench), 'Umar bin Al-Khattab (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) went to the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and said, "O Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)! By Allah, I could not pray (the 'Asr) till the sun had set." 'Umar told this to the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) at the time when a fasting person had done Iftar (taken his meals). The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) then went to Buthan and I was with him. He performed ablution and offered the 'Asr prayer after the sun had set and then the Maghrib prayer.

27. The Imam confronted with a problem after Iqama

Hadith 1.615 Narrated by Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Once the Iqama was pronounced and the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) was talking to a man (in a low voice) in a corner of the mosque and he did not lead the prayer till (some of) the people had slept (dozed in a sitting posture).

28. Talking after the Iqama

Hadith 1.616 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Once Iqama was pronounced a man came to the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and detained him (from the prayer).

29. Congregational prayer is obligatory

Hadith 1.617 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "By Him in Whose Hand my soul is I was about to order for collecting firewood (fuel) and then order someone to pronounce the Adhan for the prayer and then order someone to lead the prayer then I would go from behind and burn the houses of men who did not present themselves for the (compulsory congregational) prayer.”
“By Him, in Whose Hands my soul is, if anyone of them had known that he would get a bone covered with good meat or two (small) pieces of meat present in between two ribs, he would have turned up for the 'Isha' prayer.'”

30. Superiority of congregational prayer

Hadith 1.618 Narrated by Abdullah bin Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "The prayer in congregation is twenty seven times superior to the prayer offered by person alone."

Hadith 1.619 Narrated by Abu Said Al Khudri (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "The prayer in congregation is twenty five times superior to the prayer offered by person alone."

Hadith 1.620 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "The reward of the prayer offered by a person in congregation is twenty five times greater than that of the prayer offered in one's house or in the market (alone). And this is because if he performs ablution and does it perfectly and then proceeds to the mosque with the sole intention of praying, then for every step he takes towards the mosque, he is upgraded one degree in reward and his one sin is taken off (crossed out) from his accounts (of deeds). When he offers his prayer, the angels keep on asking Allah's blessings and Allah's forgiveness for him as long as he is (staying) at his Musalla. They say, 'O Allah! Bestow Your blessings upon him, be Merciful and kind to him.' And one is regarded in prayer as long as one is waiting for the prayer."


31. Superiority of Fajr prayer in congregation

Hadith 1.621 Narrated by Abu Salama bin Abdur Rahman (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "I heard Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) saying, 'The reward of a prayer in congregation is twenty five times greater than that of a prayer offered by a person alone. The angels of the night and the angels of the day gather at the time of Fajr prayer.' “Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) then added, "Recite the Holy Book if you wish, for 'ndeed, the recitation of the Qur'an in the early dawn (Fajr prayer) is ever witnessed.' “(17.18).
Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu): The reward of the congregational prayer is twenty seven times greater (than that of the prayer offered by a person alone).

Hadith 1.622 Narrated by Salim (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
I heard Um Ad-Darda' (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) saying, "Abu Ad-Darda' (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) entered the house in an angry mood. I said to him. 'What makes you angry?' He replied, 'By Allah! I do not find the followers of Muhammad (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) doing those good things (which they used to do before) except the offering of congregational prayer.' “(This happened in the last days of Abu Ad-Darda (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) ' during the rule of 'Uthman).

Hadith 1.623 Narrated by Abu Musa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "The people who get tremendous reward for the prayer are those who are farthest away (from the mosque) and then those who are next farthest and so on. Similarly one who waits to pray with the Imam has greater reward than one who prays and goes to bed. "

32. Superiority of offering the Zuhr prayer early

Hadith 1.624 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "While a man was going on a way, he saw a thorny branch and removed it from the way and Allah became pleased by his action and forgave him for that." Then the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Five are martyrs: One who dies of plague, one who dies of an abdominal disease, one who dies of drowning, one who is buried alive (and) dies and one who is killed in Allah's cause." (The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) further said, "If the people knew the reward for pronouncing the Adhan and for standing in the first row (in the congregational prayer) and found no other way to get it except by drawing lots they would do so, and if they knew the reward of offering the Zuhr prayer early (in its stated time), they would race for it and they knew the reward for 'Isha' and Fajr prayers in congregation, they would attend them even if they were to crawl.")


33. Every step towards good deeds is rewarded

Hadith 1.625 Narrated by Humaid (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, 'O Bani Salima! Don't you think that for every step of yours (that you take towards the mosque) there is a reward (while coming for prayer)?' “Mujahid (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said: "Regarding Allah's statement: 'We record that which they have sent before (them), and their traces' (36.12).’Their traces' means 'their steps.' " And Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said that the people of Bani Salima wanted to shift to a place near the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) but Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) disliked the idea of leaving their houses uninhabited and said, "Don't you think that you will get the reward for your footprints." Mujahid (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "Their footprints mean their footsteps and their going on foot."

Qur’an: 36.12
Verily we shall give life to the dead and we record that which they sent before and that which they leave behind and of all things have we taken account in a clear Book (of evidence).

34. Superiority of 'Isha' prayer in congregation

Hadith 1.626 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "No prayer is harder for the hypocrites than the Fajr and the 'Isha' prayers and if they knew the reward for these prayers at their respective times, they would certainly present themselves (in the mosques) even if they had to crawl." The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) added, "Certainly I decided to order the Mu'adhdhin (call-maker) to pronounce Iqama and order a man to lead the prayer and then take a fire flame to burn all those who had not left their houses so far for the prayer along with their houses."

35. Two or more persons are a group

Hadith 1.627 Narrated by Malik bin Huwairth (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said (to two persons), "Whenever the prayer time becomes due, you should pronounce Adhan and then Iqama and the older of you should lead the prayer."

36. Reward for waiting for the prayer

Hadith 1.628 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "The angels keep on asking for Allah's blessing and forgiveness for anyone of you as long as he is at his Musalla (praying place) and does not do Hadath (passes wind). The angels say, 'O Allah! Forgive him and be Merciful to him.' Each one of you is in the prayer as long as he is waiting for the prayer and nothing but the prayer detains him from going to his family."

Hadith 1.629 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Allah will give shade, to seven, on the Day when there will be no shade but His. (These seven persons are) a just ruler, a youth who has been brought up in the worship of Allah (i.e. worships Allah sincerely from childhood), a man whose heart is attached to the mosques (i.e. to pray the compulsory prayers in the mosque in congregation), two persons who love each other only for Allah's sake and they meet and part in Allah's cause only, a man who refuses the call of a charming woman of noble birth for illicit intercourse with her and says: I am afraid of Allah, a man who gives charitable gifts so secretly that his left hand does not know what his right hand has given (i.e. nobody knows how much he has given in charity), and a person who remembers Allah in seclusion and his eyes are then flooded with tears."

Hadith 1.630 Narrated by Humaid (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was asked, "Did Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) wear a ring?" He said, "Yes. Once he delayed the 'Isha' prayer till midnight and after the prayer, he faced us and said, 'The people prayed and have slept and you remained in prayer as long as you waited for it.' “Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) added, "As if I were just now observing the glitter of his ring."

37. Superiority of going to mosque for congregation

Hadith 1.631 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Allah will prepare for him who goes to the mosque (every) morning and in the afternoon (for the congregational prayer) an honorable place in Paradise with good hospitality for (what he has done) every morning and afternoon going”.

38. Only compulsory prayer after Iqama

Hadith 1.632 Narrated by Malik Ibn Buhaina (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) passed by a man praying two Rakat after the Iqama (had been pronounced). When Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) completed the prayer, the people gathered around him (the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)) or that man and Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said to him (protesting): "Are there four Rakat in Fajr prayer? Are there four Rakat in Fajr prayer?"

39. A patient attending congregational prayers

Hadith 1.633 Narrated by Al Aswad (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
"We were with 'Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) discussing the regularity of offering the prayer and dignifying it. She said, 'When Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) fell sick with the fatal illness and when the time of prayer became due and Adhan was pronounced, he said, 'Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in prayer.' He was told that Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was a softhearted man and would not be able to lead the prayer in his place. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) gave the same order again but he was given the same reply. He gave the order for the third time and said, 'You (women) are the companions of Joseph. Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the prayer.' So Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) came out to lead the prayer. In the meantime the condition of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) improved a bit and he came out with the help of two men one on each side. As if I was observing his legs dragging on the ground owing to the disease. Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) wanted to retreat but the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) beckoned him to remain at his place and the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) was brought till he sat beside Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)." Al-A'mash (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was asked, "Was the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) praying and Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) following him, and were the people following Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) in that prayer?" Al-A'mash (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) replied in the affirmative with a nod of his head. Abu Muawiya (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) was sitting on the left side of Abu Bakr who was praying while standing."

Hadith 1.634 Narrated by Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
"When the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) became seriously ill and his disease became aggravated he asked for permission from his wives to be nursed in my house and he was allowed. He came out with the help of two men and his legs were dragging on the ground. He was between Al-'Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) and another man."
'Ubaidullah (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "I told Ibn 'Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) what 'Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) had narrated and he said, 'Do you know who was the (second) man whose name 'Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) did not mention?' I said, 'No.' Ibn 'Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, 'He was 'Ali Ibn Abi Talib (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu).' "

40. Praying at home

Hadith 1.635 Narrated by Nafi (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Once on a very cold and stormy night, Ibn 'Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) pronounced the Adhan for the prayer and then said, "Pray in your homes." He (Ibn 'Umar) (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) added. "On very cold and rainy nights Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) used to order the Mu'adhdhin to say, 'Pray in your homes.' "

Hadith 1.636 Narrated by Mahmuid bin Rabi Al Ansari (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
'Itban bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) used to lead his people (tribe) in prayer and was a blind man, he said to Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam), "O Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)! At times it is dark and flood water is flowing (in the valley) and I am a blind man, so please pray at a place in my house so that I can take it as a Musalla (praying place)." So Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) went to his house and said, "Where do you like me to pray?" 'Itban pointed to a place in his house and Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) offered the prayer there.


41. Can Imam offer prayers with only few present

Hadith 1.637 Narrated by Abdullah bin Al Harith (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Ibn Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) addressed us on a (rainy and) muddy day and when the Mu'adhdhin said, "Come for the prayer" Ibn 'Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) ordered him to say, "Pray in your homes." The people began to look at one another with surprise as if they did not like it. Ibn 'Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "It seems that you thought ill of it but no doubt it was done by one who was better than I (i.e. the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)). It (the prayer) is a strict order and I disliked to bring you out."
Ibn 'Abbas narrated the same as above but he said, "I did not like you to make you sinful (in refraining from coming to the mosque) and to come (to the mosque) covered with mud up to the knees."

Hadith 1.638 Narrated by Abu Said Al Khudri (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
A cloud came and it rained till the roof started leaking and in those days the roof used to be of the branches of date-palms. Iqama was pronounced and I saw Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)s prostrating in water and mud and even I saw the mark of mud on his forehead.

Hadith 1.639 Narrated by Anas bin Sirin (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
I heard Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) saying, "A man from Ansar said to the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam), 'I cannot pray with you (in congregation).' He was a very fat man and he prepared a meal for the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and invited him to his house. He spread out a mat for the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam), and washed one of its sides with water, and the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) prayed two Rakat on it." A man from the family of Al-Jaruid asked, "Did the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) used to pray the Duha (forenoon) prayer?" Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "I did not see him praying the Duha prayer except on that day."


42. If meal is ready after the Iqama is pronounced

Hadith 1.640 Narrated by Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "If supper is served, and Iqama is pronounced one should start with the supper."

Hadith 1.641 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "If the supper is served start having it before praying the Maghrib prayer and do not be hasty in finishing it."

Hadith 1.642 Narrated by Nafi (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Ibn 'Umar said, "Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, 'If the supper is served for anyone of you and the Iqama is pronounced, start with the supper and don't be in haste (and carry on eating) till you finish it.' "If food was served for Ibn 'Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) and Iqama was pronounced, he never came to the prayer till he finished it (i.e. food) in spite of the fact that he heard the recitation (of the Qur'an) by the Imam (in the prayer). Narrated Ibn 'Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu): The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "If anyone of you is having his meals, he should not hurry up till he is satisfied even if the prayer has been started."

43. Imam eating when called for prayer

Hadith 1.643 Narrated by Jafar bin Amr bin Umaiya (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
My father said, "I saw Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) eating a piece of meat from the shoulder of a sheep and he was called for the prayer. He stood up, put down the knife and prayed but did not perform ablution.''

44. Doing domestic work after Iqama is pronounced

Hadith 1.644 Narrated by Al Aswad (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
That he asked 'Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) “What did the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) use to do in his house?" She replied, "He used to keep himself busy serving his family and when it was the time for prayer he would go for it."

45. Praying with intention of teaching the prayer

Hadith 1.645 Narrated by Aiyub (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Abu Qilaba (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "Malik bin Huwairith (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) came to this Mosque of ours and said, 'I pray in front of you and my aim is not to lead the prayer but to show you the way in which the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) used to pray.' I asked Abu Qilaba (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu), 'How did he use to pray?' He replied, '(The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) used to pray) like this Sheikh of ours and the Sheikh used to sit for a while after the prostration, before getting up after the first Rak'a.' "

46. Religious learned men having precedence in leading the prayer

Hadith 1.646 Narrated by Abu Musa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
"The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) became sick and when his disease became aggravated, he said, "Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the prayer." 'Aisha(Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "He is a softhearted man and would not be able to lead the prayer in your place." The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said again, "Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in prayer." She repeated the same reply but he said, "Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in prayer. You are the companions of Joseph." So the messenger went to Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) (with that order) and he led the people in prayer in the lifetime of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam).

Hadith 1.647 Narrated by Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The mother of the believers: Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) in his illness said, "Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in prayer." I said to him, "If Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) stands in your place, the people would not hear him owing to his (excessive) weeping. So please order 'Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the prayer." 'Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) added: I said to Hafsa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) , "Say to him: If Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) should lead the people in the prayer in your place, the people would not be able to hear him owing to his weeping; so please, order 'Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the prayer." Hafsa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) did so but Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Keep quiet! You are verily the Companions of Joseph. Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer. “Hafsa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said to 'Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu), "I never got anything good from you."

Hadith 1.648 Narrated by Az Zuhn (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Anas bin Malik Al-Ansari (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu), told me, "Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) used to lead the people in prayer during the fatal illness of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) till it was Monday. When the people aligned (in rows) for the prayer the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) lifted the curtain of his house and started looking at us and was standing at that time. His face was (glittering) like a page of the Qur'an and he smiled cheerfully. We were about to be put to trial for the pleasure of seeing the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam), Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) retreated to join the row as he thought that the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) would lead the prayer. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) beckoned us to complete the prayer and he let the curtain fall. On the same day he died."

Hadith 1.649 Narrated by Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) did not come out for three days. The people stood for the prayer and Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) went ahead to lead the prayer. (In the meantime) the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) caught hold of the curtain and lifted it. When the face of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) appeared we had never seen a scene more pleasing than the face of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) as it appeared then. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) beckoned to Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer and then let the curtain fall. We did not see him (again) till he died.

Hadith 1.650 Narrated by Hamza bin Abdullah (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
My father said, "When Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) became seriously ill, he was told about the prayer. He said, 'Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer.' 'Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, 'Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) is a softhearted man and he would be overpowered by his weeping if he recited the Qur'an.' He said to them, 'Tell him (Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)) to lead the prayer.' The same reply was given to him. He said again, 'Tell him to lead the prayer. You (women) are the companions of Joseph.' "

47. Standing by the side of the Imam

Hadith 1.651 Narrated by Urwas father (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
'Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) ordered Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer during his illness and so he led them in prayer." 'Urwa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu), a sub narrator, added, "Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) felt a bit relieved and came out and Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was leading the people. When Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) saw the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) he retreated but the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) beckoned him to remain there. Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) sat beside Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu). Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was following the prayer of Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and the people were following the prayer of Abu Bakr."

48. Leading the prayer while Imam comes

Hadith 1.652 Narrated by Sahl bin Sad As Saidi (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) went to establish peace among Bani 'Amr bin 'Auf. In the meantime the time of prayer was due and the Mu'adhdhin went to Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) and said, "Will you lead the prayer, so that I may pronounce the Iqama?" Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) replied in the affirmative and led the prayer. Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) came while the people were still praying and he entered the rows of the praying people till he stood in the (first row). The people clapped their hands. Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) never glanced sideways in his prayer but when the people continued clapping, Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) looked and saw Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam). Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) beckoned him to stay at his place. Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) raised his hands and thanked Allah for that order of Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and then he retreated till he reached the first row. Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) went forward and led the prayer. When Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) finished the prayer, he said, "O Abu Bakr! (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) What prevented you from staying when I ordered you to do so?"
Abu Bakr replied, "How can Ibn Abi Quhafa (Abu Bakr) (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) dare to lead the prayer in the presence of Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)?" Then Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Why did you clap so much? If something happens to anyone during his prayer he should say Subhan Allah. If he says so he will be attended to, for clapping is for women."

49. If people are equally proficient in the recitation of the Qur'an, who should lead prayer?

Hadith 1.653 Narrated by Malik bin Huwairth (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
We went to the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and we were all young men and stayed with him for about twenty nights. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) was very merciful. He said, "When you return home, impart religious teachings to your families and tell them to offer perfectly such and such a prayer at such and such a time and such and such a prayer at such and such a time. And all the time of the prayer one of you should pronounce the Adhan and the oldest of you should lead the prayer."

50. Imam leading prayer on a visit

Hadith 1.654 Narrated by Itban bin Malik Al Ansari (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) (came to my house and) asked permission for entering and I allowed him. He asked, "Where do you like me to pray in your house?" I pointed to a place which I liked. He stood up for prayer and we aligned behind him and he finished the prayer with Taslim and we did the same.

51. The Imam is appointed to be followed

Hadith 1.655 Narrated by Ubaidullah Ibn Abdullah bin Utba (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
I went to 'Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) and asked her to describe to me the illness of Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam). 'Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "Yes. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) became seriously ill and asked whether the people had prayed. We replied, 'No. O Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)! They are waiting for you.' He added, 'Put water for me in a trough.' " 'Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) added, "We did so. He took a bath and tried to get up but fainted. When he recovered, he again asked whether the people had prayed. We said, 'No, they are waiting for you. O Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam),' He again said, 'Put water in a trough for me.' He sat down and took a bath and tried to get up but fainted again. Then he recovered and said, 'Have the people prayed?' We replied, 'No, they are waiting for you. O Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam).' He said, 'Put water for me in the trough.' Then he sat down and washed himself and tried to get up but he fainted. When he recovered, he asked, 'Have the people prayed?' We said, 'No, they are waiting for you. O Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)! The people were in the mosque waiting for the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) for the 'Isha prayer. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) sent for Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer. The messenger went to Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) and said, 'Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) orders you to lead the people in the prayer.' Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was a softhearted man, so he asked 'Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the prayer but 'Umar replied, 'You are more rightful.' So Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) led the prayer in those days. When the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) felt a bit better, he came out for the Zuhr prayer with the help of two persons one of whom was Al-'Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu). while Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was leading the people in the prayer. When Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) saw him he wanted to retreat but the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) beckoned him not to do so and asked them to make him sit beside Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) and they did so. Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was following the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) (in the prayer) and the people were following Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu). The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) (prayed) sitting."
'Ubaidullah (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) added "I went to 'Abdullah bin 'Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) and asked him, 'Shall I tell you what Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) has told me about the fatal illness of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)?' Ibn 'Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, 'Go ahead. I told him her narration and he did not deny anything of it but asked whether 'Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) told me the name of the second person (who helped the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) ) along with Al-Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu). I said. 'No.' He said, 'He was 'Ali (Ibn Abi Talib) (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu).' "

Hadith 1.656 Narrated by Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The mother of the believers: Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) during his illness prayed at his house while sitting whereas some people prayed behind him standing. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) beckoned them to sit down. On completion of the prayer, he said, "The Imam is to be followed: bow when he bows, raise up your heads (stand erect) when he raises his head and when he says, 'Sami a-l-lahu liman-hamida ' (Allah heard those who sent praises to Him) say then 'Rabbana wa laka-l-hamd' (O our Lord! All the praises are for You), and if he prays sitting then pray sitting."

Hadith 1.657 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Once Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) rode a horse and fell down and the right side (of his body) was injured. He offered one of the prayers while sitting and we also prayed behind him sitting. When he completed the prayer, he said, "The Imam is to be followed. Pray standing if he prays standing and bow when he bows; rise when he rises; and if he says, 'Sami a-l-lahu-liman hamida', say then, 'Rabbana wa Lakal-hamd' and pray standing if he prays standing and pray sitting (all of you) if he prays sitting."
Humaid (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said: The saying of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) "Pray sitting, if he (Imam) prays sitting" was said in his former illness (during his early life) but the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) prayed sitting afterwards (in the last illness) and the people were praying standing behind him and the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) did not order them to sit. We should follow the latest actions of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam).

52. When should the followers prostrate?

Hadith 1.658 Narrated by Al Bara (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
(And he was not a liar) When Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Sami a-l-lahu Liman hamida" none of us bent his back (for prostration) till the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) prostrated and then we would prostrate after him.

Hadith 1.659 Narrated by Abu Ishaq (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
As above.

53. Sin of raising head before Imam does

Hadith 1.660 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Isn't he who raises his head before the Imam afraid that Allah may transform his head into that of a donkey or his figure (face) into that of a donkey?"

54. A slave or manumitted slave may lead the prayer

Hadith 1.661 Narrated by Ibn Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
When the earliest emigrants came to Al-'Usba, a place in Quba', before the arrival of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam), Salim (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu), the slave of Abu Hudhaifa, who knew the Qur'an more than the others, used to lead them in prayer.

Hadith 1.662 Narrated by Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Listen and obey (your chief) even if an Ethiopian whose head is like a raisin were made your chief."

55. If the Imam does not offer prayers perfectly

Hadith 1.663 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "If the Imam leads the prayer correctly then he and you will receive the rewards but if he makes a mistake (in the prayer) then you will receive the reward for the prayer and the sin will be his."

56. Praying behind a man who is victim of affliction

Hadith 1.664 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said to Abu-Dhar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu), "Listen and obey (your chief) even if he is an Ethiopian with a head like a raisin."

57. Standing on the right side of Imam

Hadith 1.665 Narrated by Ibn Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Once I passed the night in the house of my aunt Maimuna (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu). Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) offered the 'Isha' prayer and then came to the house and offered four Rakat and slept. Later on, he woke up and stood for the prayer and I stood on his left side. He drew me to his right and prayed five Rakat and then two. He then slept till I heard him snoring (or heard his breath sounds). Afterwards he went out for the morning prayer.

58. Standing on the left side of Imam

Hadith 1.666 Narrated by Ibn Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
One night I slept at the house of (my aunt) Maimuna (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) and the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) was there on that night. He performed ablution and stood up for the prayer. I joined him and stood on his left side but he drew me to his right and prayed thirteen Rakat and then slept till I heard his breath sounds. And whenever he slept, he used to breathe with audible sounds. The Mu'adhdhin came to the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and he went out and prayed the morning prayer) without repeating the ablution.

59. Changing Imams just before prayer

Hadith 1.667 Narrated by Ibn Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Once I passed the night in the house of my aunt Maimuna (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu). The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) stood for the night prayer and I joined him and stood on his left side but he drew me to his right by holding me by the head.

60. Imam prolonging the prayer

Hadith 1.668 Narrated by Muadh bin Jabal (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
I used to pray the 'Isha prayer with the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and then go to lead my people in the prayer.

Hadith 1.669 Narrated by Amr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Jabir bin 'Abdullah (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "Mu'adh bin Jabal (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) used to pray with the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and then go to lead his people in prayer. Once he led the 'Isha' prayer and recited Surat 'Al-Baqra.' Somebody left the prayer and Mu'adh (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) criticized him. The news reached the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and he said to Mu'adh (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu), 'You are putting the people to trial,' and repeated it thrice (or said something similar) and ordered him to recite two medium Suras of Mufassal." ('Amr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said that he had forgotten the names of those Suras).

61. Shortening the Qiyam standing in prayer.

Hadith 1.670 Narrated by Abu Masud (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
A man came and said, "O Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)! By Allah, I keep away from the morning prayer only because so and so prolongs the prayer when he leads us in it." The narrator said, "I never saw Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) more furious in giving advice than he was at that time. He then said, 'Some of you make people dislike good deeds (the prayer). So whoever among you leads the people in prayer should shorten it because among them are the weak, the old and the needy.' "

62. Prolonging the prayer when praying alone

Hadith 1.671 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "If anyone of you leads the people in the prayer, he should shorten it for amongst them are the weak, the sick and the old; and if anyone among your prays alone then he may prolong (the prayer) as much as he wishes.”

63. Complaining against Imam for prolonging prayer

Hadith 1.672 Narrated by Abu Masud (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
A man came and said, "O Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)! I keep away from the morning prayer because so-and-so (Imam) prolongs it too much." Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) became furious and I had never seen him more furious than he was on that day. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "O people! Some of you make others dislike the prayer, so whoever becomes an Imam he should shorten the prayer, as behind him are the weak, the old and the needy.''

Hadith 1.673 Narrated by Jabir bin Abdullah Al Ansari (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Once a man was driving two Nadihas (camels used for agricultural purposes) and night had fallen. He found Mu'adh (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) praying so he made his camel kneel and joined Mu'adh (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) in the prayer. The latter recited Surat "Al-Baqara"or Surat "An-Nisa", (so) the man left the prayer and went away. When he came to know that Mu'adh (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) had criticized him, he went to the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam), and complained against Mu'adh (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu). The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said thrice, "O Mu'adh (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)! Are you putting the people to trial? It would have been better if you had recited “Sabbih Isma Rabbika-l-a-la (87), Wash-Shamsi wadu-haha (91), or Wal-laili Idha yaghsha (92), for the old, the weak and the needy pray behind you." Jabir (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said that Mu'adh (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) recited Sura Al-Baqara in the 'Isha' prayer.

Hadith 1.674 Narrated by Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) used to pray a short prayer (in congregation) but used to offer it in a perfect manner.

64. Shortening prayer on hearing child cries

Hadith 1.675 Narrated by Abdullah bin Abi Qatada (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
My father said, "The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, 'When I stand for prayer, I intend to prolong it but on hearing the cries of a child, I cut it short, as I dislike to trouble the child's mother.' "

Hadith 1.676 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
I never prayed behind any Imam a prayer lighter and more perfect than that behind the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and he used to cut short the prayer whenever he heard the cries of a child lest he should put the child's mother to trial.

Hadith 1.677 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "When I start the prayer I intend to prolong it, but on hearing the cries of a child, I cut short the prayer because I know that the cries of the child will incite its mother's passions."

Hadith 1.678 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam), said, "Whenever I start the prayer I intend to prolong it, but on hearing the cries of a child, I cut short the prayer because I know that the cries of the child will incite its mother's passions."

65. Praying and then leading people in prayer

Hadith 1.679 Narrated by Jabir bin Abdullah (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Mu'adh used to pray with the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and then go and lead his people (tribe) in the prayer.

66. Repeating Takbir of Imam

Hadith 1.680 Narrated by Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
When the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam), became ill in his fatal illness, someone came to inform him about the prayer, and the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) told him to tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer. I said, "Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) is a softhearted man and if he stands for the prayer in your place, he would weep and would not be able to recite the Qur'an." The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the prayer." I said the same as before. He (repeated the same order and) on the third or the fourth time he said, "You are the companions of Joseph (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu). Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the prayer." So Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) led the prayer and meanwhile the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) felt better and came out with the help of two men; as if I see him just now dragging his feet on the ground. When Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) saw him, he tried to retreat but the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) beckoned him to carry on. Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) retreated a bit and the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) sat on his (left) side. Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was repeating the Takbir (Allahu Akbar) of Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) for the people to hear.

67. Following the person who follows the Imam

Hadith 1.681 Narrated by Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
When Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) became seriously ill, Bilal came to him for the prayer. He said, "Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer." I said, "O Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam)! Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) is a softhearted man and if he stands in your place, he would not be able to make the people hear him. Will you order 'Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) (to lead the prayer)?" The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer." Then I said to Hafsa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu), "Tell him, Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) is a softhearted man and if he stands in his place, he would not be able to make the people hear him. Would you order 'Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the prayer?' "Hafsa did so. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Verily you are the companions of Joseph. Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer." So Abu- Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) stood for the prayer. In the meantime Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) felt better and came out with the help of two persons and both of his legs were dragging on the ground till he entered the mosque. When Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) heard him coming, he tried to retreat but Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) beckoned him to carry on. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) sat on his left side. Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was praying while standing and Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) was leading the prayer while sitting. Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was following the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and the people were following Abu Bakr (in the prayer).

68. Imam relying on what people say

Hadith 1.682 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Once Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) prayed two Rakat (instead of four) and finished his prayer. Dhul-Yadain (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) asked him whether the prayer had been reduced or whether he had forgotten. Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) asked the people whether Dhul-Yadain (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was telling the truth. The people replied in the affirmative. Then Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) stood up, offered the remaining two Rakat and then finished his prayer with Taslim and then said, "Allahu Akbar." He followed it with two prostrations like ordinary prostrations or a bit longer.

Hadith 1.683 Narrated by Abu Huraira
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) prayed two Rakat of Zuhr prayer (instead of four) and he was told that he had prayed two Rakat only. Then he prayed two more Rakat and finished them with the Taslim followed by two prostrations.

69. Imam weeping during prayers

Hadith 1.684 Narrated by Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The mother of the faithful believers: Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) in his last illness said, "Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer." I said, "If Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) stood in your place, he would not be able to make the people hear him owing to his weeping. So please order 'Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the prayer." He said, "Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer." I said to Hafsa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu), "Say to him, 'Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) is a softhearted man and if he stood in your place he would not be able to make the people hear him owing to his weeping. So order 'Umar (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer.' "Hafsa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) did so but Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Keep quiet. Verily you are the companions of (Prophet) Joseph. Tell Abu Bakr (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) to lead the people in the prayer." Hafsa (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said to me, "I never got any good from you."

70. Straightening the rows

Hadith 1.685 Narrated by An Numan bin Bashir (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Straighten your rows or Allah will alter your faces."

Hadith 1.686 Narrated by Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Straighten your rows, for I see you from behind my back.'

71. Imam facing followers during straightening rows

Hadith 1.687 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Once the Iqama was pronounced and Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) faced us and said, "Straighten your rows and stand closer together, for I see you from behind my back.'

72. The first row

Hadith 1.668 Narrated by Muadh bin Jabal (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
I used to pray the 'Isha prayer with the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and then go to lead my people in the prayer.

73. Straightening of rows is obligatory

Hadith 1.689 Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "The Imam is (appointed) to be followed. So do not differ from him, bow when he bows, and say, 'Rabbana-lakal hamd' if he says 'Sami'a-l-lahu Liman hamida' and if he prostrates, prostrate (after him), and if he prays sitting, pray sitting all together, and straighten the rows for the prayer, as the straightening of the rows is amongst those things which make your prayer a correct and perfect one." (See Hadith No. 657).

Hadith 1.690 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Straighten your rows as the straightening of rows is essential for a perfect and correct prayer."

74. Sin of being out of alignment for prayers

Hadith 1.691 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
I arrived at Medina and was asked whether I found any change since the days of Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam). I said, "I have not found any change except that you do not stand in alignment in your prayers."

75. Standing shoulder to shoulder

Hadith 1.692 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "Straighten your rows for I see you from behind my back." Anas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) added, "Every one of us used to put his shoulder with the shoulder of his companion and his foot with the foot of his companion."

76. Imam drawing person from left side to right side

Hadith 1.693 Narrated by Ibn Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
I prayed with the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) one night and stood on his left side. Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) caught hold of my head from behind and drew me to his right and then offered the prayer and slept. Later the Mu'adhdhin came and the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) stood up for prayer without performing ablution.

77. One woman can form a row

Hadith 1.694 Narrated by Anas bin Malik (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
One night an orphan and I offered the prayers behind the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) in my house and my mother (Um Sulaim) (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) was standing behind us (by herself forming a row).

78. The right side of the mosque

Hadith 1.695 Narrated by Ibn Abbas (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
One night I stood to the left of the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) in the prayer but he caught hold of me by the hand or by the shoulder (arm) till he made me stand on his right and beckoned with his hand (for me) to go from behind (him). (Al-Kashmaihani-Fateh al-Bari).

79. A Sutra or wall between the Imam and his followers

Hadith 1.696 Narrated by Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) used to pray in his room at night. As the wall of the room was low, the people saw him and some of them stood up to follow him in the prayer. In the morning they spread the news. The following night the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) stood for the prayer and the people followed him. This went on for two or three nights. Thereupon Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) did not stand for the prayer the following night, and did not come out. In the morning, the people asked him about it. He replied that he was afraid that the night prayer might become compulsory.

80. The night prayer

Hadith 1.697 Narrated by Aisha (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) had a mat which he used to spread during the day and use as a curtain at night. So a number of people gathered at night facing it and prayed behind him.

Hadith 1.698 Narrated by Zaid bin Thabit (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu)
Allah’s Apostle (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) made a small room in the month of Ramadan (Sa'id (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said, "I think that Zaid bin Thabit (Radhiallah hu Taala anhu) said that it was made of a mat") and he prayed there for a few nights, and so some of his companions prayed behind him. When he came to know about it, he kept on sitting. In the morning, he went out to them and said, "I have seen and understood what you did. You should pray in your houses, for the best prayer of a person is that which he prays in his house except the compulsory prayers."