I saw Malik bin Huwairith saying Takbir and raising both his hands (on starting the prayers and raising his hands on bowing and also on raising his head after bowing. Malik bin Huwairith said, "Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) did the same."
Hadith Text & Reference
"I saw Malik bin Huwairith saying Takbir and raising both his hands (on starting the prayers and raising his hands on bowing and also on raising his head after bowing. Malik bin Huwairith said, 'Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) did the same.'"
Source: Sahih al-Bukhari 737
Commentary on Raf' al-Yadayn (Raising the Hands)
This narration establishes the Sunnah practice of raising both hands during prayer at three specific positions: at the opening takbir (takbirat al-ihram), when bowing into ruku', and when rising from ruku' to standing. This practice is known as Raf' al-Yadayn.
The great Imam al-Bukhari included this hadith in his chapter "Call to Prayers (Adhaan)" to demonstrate that raising the hands is an integral part of the prayer's prescribed form, connected to the movements between positions.
Scholarly Consensus & Positions
The majority of classical scholars - including Imams Malik, al-Shafi'i, and Ahmad - held that raising the hands at these three positions is a confirmed Sunnah. They based this on numerous authentic narrations from the Prophet (ﷺ) through various companions.
Some scholars differed regarding the continuity of this practice after the Prophet's time, but the textual evidence remains clear and compelling for those who follow the established Sunnah.
Method & Manner of Raising
The hands should be raised to the level of the shoulders or earlobes, with fingers naturally extended and palms facing the qibla. This elevation should coincide precisely with the utterance of "Allahu Akbar" at each position.
This synchronized movement of limbs and tongue exemplifies the comprehensive nature of Islamic worship, engaging both physical and spiritual faculties in submission to Allah.
Spiritual Significance
Raising the hands symbolizes casting aside worldly concerns and turning completely toward Allah. At the prayer's commencement, it represents leaving behind worldly affairs. During transitions in prayer, it signifies moving from one state of humility to another.
Each raising of the hands renews the worshipper's intention and focus, serving as a physical manifestation of spiritual ascension toward the Divine Presence.