Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) 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 Text
Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) 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."
Commentary on the Divine Mercy
This noble hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari reveals the immense divine mercy bestowed upon the believer who remains in the state of prayer. The continuous supplication of angels for one in prayer demonstrates the elevated status of worship in Islam.
The condition "as long as he does not do Hadath" indicates that maintaining ritual purity is essential for receiving this divine favor. This teaches us the importance of wudu and purity in worship.
The Virtue of Waiting for Prayer
The statement "each one of you is in the prayer as long as he is waiting for the prayer" signifies that the reward of prayer begins from the moment one intends and prepares for it. This includes the time spent in the mosque awaiting the congregation.
The condition "nothing but the prayer detains him" emphasizes the purity of intention required. If worldly matters distract one while waiting, the full reward may not be attained.
Practical Implications
This hadith encourages Muslims to arrive early for prayers and remain in the mosque afterward, engaging in remembrance of Allah. It teaches that worship is not limited to the physical movements of prayer alone.
The continuous angelic prayers highlight how Allah multiplies rewards for simple acts of devotion, demonstrating His infinite generosity toward His servants.