Prayer (Kitab Al-Salat): Voluntary Prayers - Sunan Abi Dawud 1307

This hadith from Sunan Abi Dawud emphasizes the importance of maintaining the night prayer (Tahajjud), which was a consistent practice of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The scholars explain that this prayer holds immense spiritual merit and brings one closer to Allah. Even when physically unable to stand, the Prophet demonstrated its significance by performing it seated, teaching us that worship should be adapted to one's capability rather than abandoned entirely.

Scholarly Commentary on Night Prayer

The classical scholars, including Imam Nawawi and Ibn Qayyim, clarify that the night prayer is among the most virtuous voluntary acts of worship. It was the practice of the righteous before us and a means of attaining proximity to Allah. The Prophet's consistency, even during illness, indicates its high status in Islamic tradition.

Scholars note that performing prayers while sitting due to legitimate excuses still earns complete reward, as evidenced by the Prophet's action. This reflects the mercy and practicality of Islamic law, where the essence of worship is preserved despite physical limitations.

Practical Implementation

The ruling derived from this hadith is that one should strive to maintain the night prayer regularly, even if in a reduced form during times of weakness. The scholars recommend starting with at least two rak'ahs and gradually increasing as one becomes accustomed to this blessed practice.