Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "If the people knew the reward for pronouncing the Adhan and for standing in the first row (in congregational prayers) and found no other way to get that except by drawing lots they would draw lots, and if they knew the reward of the Zuhr prayer (in the early moments of its stated time) they would race for it (go early) and if they knew the reward of `Isha' and Fajr (morning) prayers in congregation, they would come to offer them even if they had to crawl."
Hadith Text & Context
Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "If the people knew the reward for pronouncing the Adhan and for standing in the first row (in congregational prayers) and found no other way to get that except by drawing lots they would draw lots, and if they knew the reward of the Zuhr prayer (in the early moments of its stated time) they would race for it (go early) and if they knew the reward of `Isha' and Fajr (morning) prayers in congregation, they would come to offer them even if they had to crawl." (Sahih al-Bukhari 615)
The Excellence of Adhan
The Adhan (call to prayer) is a great act of worship that announces the time of prayer and calls people to the obedience of Allah. The caller (mu'adhdhin) receives immense reward for each word uttered, as it is a proclamation of Tawhid (Islamic monotheism) and the messengership of Muhammad (ﷺ). Scholars mention that the mu'adhdhin's voice will be recognized on the Day of Judgment, and all who hear the Adhan - humans, jinn, and other creatures - will testify for him.
Virtue of the First Row
Standing in the first row during congregational prayer carries special merit. The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized its excellence in multiple narrations. Scholars explain that the first row is like the rows of angels in heaven, and those who occupy it demonstrate their eagerness for prayer and closeness to the Imam. The competition for this position reflects the spiritual rank it holds in Allah's sight.
Timely Performance of Zuhr
The hadith specifically mentions racing for the Zuhr prayer in its early time. Scholars note that performing prayers at their earliest prescribed time is most beloved to Allah, as it shows vigilance in fulfilling obligations and fear of missing the prayer due to unforeseen circumstances. This early performance demonstrates the Muslim's keenness to obey Allah without delay.
Special Merit of Isha and Fajr
Isha and Fajr prayers in congregation are particularly challenging due to their times - one when people are resting and the other when they are sleeping. The exaggeration of "crawling" emphasizes the tremendous reward for overcoming these natural inclinations to attend congregational prayer. Scholars mention that these two prayers testify to a person's sincerity, as they are performed when few witnesses are present.
Spiritual Lessons
This hadith teaches us about the hidden treasures of Islamic worship that many Muslims overlook. It encourages competition in righteous deeds and reminds us that the true value of acts of worship is known only to Allah. The imagery of drawing lots and crawling powerfully conveys how valuable these acts are in reality, though their rewards are unseen in this world.