My father said, "The Prophet (ﷺ) in Zuhr prayers used to recite Al-Fatiha along with two other Suras in the first two rak`at: a long one in the first rak`a and a shorter (Sura) in the second, and at times the verses were audible. In the `Asr prayer the Prophet (ﷺ) used to recite Al-Fatiha and two more Suras in the first two rak`at and used to prolong the first rak`a. And he used to prolong the first rak`a of the Fajr prayer and shorten the second.
Call to Prayers (Adhaan)
Sahih al-Bukhari 759
Hadith Commentary
This noble hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari provides profound insight into the Prophetic methodology of recitation during obligatory prayers. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ established distinct patterns for different prayers, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of Islamic worship.
In the Zuhr prayer, the recitation of Al-Fatiha followed by two additional surahs in the first two rak'at reflects the balanced approach to midday prayer. The longer recitation in the first rak'a and shorter in the second establishes a spiritual rhythm that maintains concentration while accommodating the worshipper's state.
The audible recitation at times during Zuhr indicates flexibility within the Sunnah, as Zuhr is generally considered a silent prayer. This occasional audibility serves as a teaching method for companions and demonstrates that certain rules in prayer have permissible variations.
The prolongation of the first rak'a in Asr and Fajr prayers emphasizes the importance of beginning these prayers with proper spiritual preparation. For Fajr, this extended recitation allows the worshipper to fully awaken their heart to the remembrance of Allah at the dawn of a new day.
This systematic approach to recitation lengths teaches us about the wisdom of varying worship practices according to time and circumstance, while maintaining the essential structure of prayer that connects the believer to their Lord.