Times of the Prayers - Sahih al-Bukhari 555

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Angels come to you in succession by night and day and all of them get together at the time of the Fajr and `Asr prayers. Those who have passed the night with you (or stayed with you) ascend (to the Heaven) and Allah asks them, though He knows everything about you, well, "In what state did you leave my slaves?" The angels reply: "When we left them they were praying and when we reached them, they were praying."

Commentary on the Hadith

This noble hadith reveals the divine honor bestowed upon the Fajr and Asr prayers. The succession of angels by night and day demonstrates Allah's constant care over His servants, with special emphasis on these two prayers when the angels of night and day meet.

The gathering of angels at Fajr and Asr indicates the elevated status of these prayers. Fajr marks the beginning of the day when souls are refreshed, while Asr occurs when the day declines and people grow weary - yet the believers remain steadfast in worship.

Allah's question to the angels, despite His perfect knowledge, demonstrates His mercy and the honor He gives to the praying servants. It serves as an encouragement for consistency in prayer and highlights how righteous deeds are presented before Allah.

The angels' testimony that they found the believers praying both when they departed and arrived signifies the importance of maintaining prayer throughout one's life and being in a state of obedience to Allah at all times.

Spiritual Benefits

This hadith encourages punctuality in prayer, especially Fajr and Asr, as they are witnessed by the angels.

It teaches that consistent worship brings divine recognition and angelic testimony in the heavenly court.

The narration inspires believers to maintain a state of prayerfulness throughout their daily activities.