Times of the Prayers - Sahih al-Bukhari 552

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Whoever misses the `Asr prayer (intentionally) then it is as if he lost his family and property."

Scholarly Commentary

This profound hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari emphasizes the grave consequence of intentionally neglecting the Asr prayer. The comparison to losing one's family and wealth serves as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual devastation that occurs when a Muslim willfully abandons this obligatory act of worship.

Classical scholars explain that the Asr prayer holds particular significance as it occurs during the latter part of the day when people are often preoccupied with worldly affairs. The severe warning indicates that intentional neglect of this prayer constitutes a major sin that severs one's connection with Allah, much like losing everything dear in this worldly life.

Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani, in his commentary Fath al-Bari, notes that this hadith demonstrates the prayer's immense value in maintaining one's faith and spiritual well-being. The loss mentioned is not merely material but represents the ultimate loss of divine mercy and guidance in both this life and the hereafter.

Legal Ruling

According to the consensus of classical scholars, intentionally missing any obligatory prayer without valid excuse is considered a major sin. However, the specific emphasis on Asr prayer in this narration indicates its particular importance in the daily prayer cycle and the severe consequences of its neglect.