Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "When the Adhan for the prayer is pronounced, then Satan takes to his heels passing wind so that he may not hear the Adhan and when the Mu'adh-dhin finishes, he comes back; and when the Iqama is pronounced he again takes to his heels and when it is finished, he again comes back and continues reminding the praying person of things that he used not to remember when not in prayer till he forgets how much he has prayed." Abu Salama bin `Abdur-Rahman said, "If anyone of you has such a thing (forgetting the number of rak`at he has prayed) he should perform two prostrations of Sahu (i.e. forgetfulness) while sitting." Abu Salama narrates this from Abu Huraira.
Actions while Praying
Sahih al-Bukhari - Hadith 1222
Hadith Text
Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "When the Adhan for the prayer is pronounced, then Satan takes to his heels passing wind so that he may not hear the Adhan and when the Mu'adh-dhin finishes, he comes back; and when the Iqama is pronounced he again takes to his heels and when it is finished, he again comes back and continues reminding the praying person of things that he used not to remember when not in prayer till he forgets how much he has prayed." Abu Salama bin `Abdur-Rahman said, "If anyone of you has such a thing (forgetting the number of rak`at he has prayed) he should perform two prostrations of Sahu (i.e. forgetfulness) while sitting." Abu Salama narrates this from Abu Huraira.
Commentary on Satan's Flight
The hadith reveals that Satan flees from the remembrance of Allah, particularly during the call to prayer. His departure "passing wind" indicates both haste and humiliation. This demonstrates the spiritual power of the Adhan and Iqama as divine invocations that repel evil influences.
Satan's Strategy in Prayer
Satan's return after each call shows his persistence in distracting believers. His method involves bringing worldly thoughts and concerns to mind during prayer - matters the worshipper wouldn't normally recall. This is a subtle attack meant to diminish concentration and devotion.
Forgetfulness in Prayer
The Prophet identifies Satanic whispers as the cause of forgetting prayer counts. This is not ordinary forgetfulness but spiritual interference. The remedy prescribed - prostrations of forgetfulness (sujud al-sahu) - demonstrates Allah's mercy in accommodating human weakness during worship.
Practical Guidance
Abu Salama's addition provides the legal remedy: when uncertain about the number of rak'ahs performed, one should perform two prostrations of forgetfulness before the final tasleem. This preserves the validity of prayer while acknowledging the reality of Satanic interference.
Spiritual Lessons
This hadith teaches believers to recognize Satanic whispers as a reality in worship. It encourages increased concentration in prayer and reliance on the prescribed remedies when doubts occur. The constant battle against distraction requires spiritual vigilance and trust in Allah's accommodating legislation.