Hadith Text & Reference

"My father said, 'The Prophet (ﷺ) used to recite Al-Fatiha along with another Sura in the first two rak`at of the Zuhr and `Asr prayers. A verse or so was audible at times and he used to prolong the first rak`a.'" (Sahih al-Bukhari 778)

Commentary on Recitation Practice

This narration establishes the Sunnah of reciting both Al-Fatiha and an additional surah in the first two rak'at of Zuhr and Asr prayers. The Prophet's practice demonstrates that silent prayers still require proper recitation, though quieter than audible prayers.

The phrase "a verse or so was audible at times" indicates that while these are silent prayers, the recitation wasn't completely inaudible. This shows the balance between maintaining the silent nature of these prayers while still reciting with proper articulation.

Significance of Prolonging First Rak'a

The prolongation of the first rak'a serves multiple spiritual purposes: it allows for greater concentration (khushu'), gives latecomers time to join the prayer, and emphasizes the importance of the opening unit of prayer. This practice reflects the Prophet's concern for both individual devotion and community worship.

Scholars note that this prolongation is relative and moderate - long enough to achieve the intended benefits but not so long as to cause hardship for the congregation, especially during daytime prayers when people have worldly engagements.

Legal Rulings Derived

This hadith establishes the obligation of reciting Al-Fatiha in every rak'a and the Sunnah of adding another surah in the first two rak'at. The four schools of jurisprudence agree on this practice while differing on certain details of implementation.

The audible recitation of "a verse or so" in otherwise silent prayers indicates that complete silence is not required - a low recitation that doesn't disturb others' concentration is permissible and sometimes preferable.