The Hadith of the day

Abu Qatadah Al-Harith bin Rib`i (May Allah bepleased with him) reported:

Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "I stand up to lead Salat with the intention of prolonging it. Then I hear the crying of an infant and I shorten the Salat lest I should make it burdensome for his mother".

[Al-Bukhari].


Commentary:  In this Hadith, brevity of prayers stands for recitation of short Surah of the Noble Qur'an in prescribed congregational prayers. The Sahih Muslim has elucidated this by saying that the Prophet (PBUH) would recite short Surah on hearing the crying of a baby. In short, this Hadith mentions that affection which he had for his followers. Its importance can be judged by the fact that he made a demonstration of it even in the prescribed prayers.
   Riyad-us-Saliheen (231)

The Hadith of the day

Abu Hurairah (May Allah bepleased with him) reported:

Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "When one of you leads the Salat, he should not prolong it because the congregation includes those who are feeble, ill or old". One version adds: "those who have to attend to work'') While offering prayers alone, you may pray as long as you like".

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].


Commentary:  According to this Hadith, the Imam - one who leads the congregational prayer, is enjoined to shorten the prayer in consideration of those who pray behind him. Shortening of prayer here means that the Surah of the Qur'an recited by him in the prayer should not be very long. This does not mean, however, that the postures of Salat, such as standing, bowing, prostration and sitting should not be done properly, as it is taken to mean by Muslims in general. Although it is a Sunnah about which the Noble Prophet (PBUH) is reported to have said, "Pray as you see me praying.'' Thus, it is essential to perform Salat properly.
   Riyad-us-Saliheen (228)