Never did I see the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) observing supererogatory prayer sitting till one year before his death when he would observe Nafl prayer in a sitting position, and he would recite the Surah (of the Qur'an) in such a slow-measured tone (that duration of its recital) became more lengthy than the one longer than this.
The Book of Prayer - Travellers
Sahih Muslim 733 a
Hadith Text
Never did I see the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) observing supererogatory prayer sitting till one year before his death when he would observe Nafl prayer in a sitting position, and he would recite the Surah (of the Qur'an) in such a slow-measured tone (that duration of its recital) became more lengthy than the one longer than this.
Commentary
This narration demonstrates the Prophet's concession in performing supererogatory prayers while sitting during his final year due to physical weakness, showing the flexibility in Islamic worship when genuine need arises.
The prolonged recitation indicates increased devotion and contemplation in worship during his final days, teaching us that quality of worship surpasses mere physical posture.
Scholars derive from this that while standing is preferable for voluntary prayers, sitting is permissible and rewarded, with the reward being half of that for standing prayer according to authentic traditions.
Legal Rulings
Voluntary prayers may be performed sitting even without excuse, though standing is superior.
The recitation in sitting prayer should maintain proper tajweed and contemplation.
This concession particularly benefits the elderly, sick, and those with legitimate reasons preventing standing.