The Book of Forgetfulness (In Prayer)

Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 1219

Hadith Text

"We used to speak to each other during the prayer, saying whatever was necessary, at the time of the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ), until this verse was revealed: Guard strictly (five obligatory) As-Salawat (the prayers) especially the middle Salah (i.e. the best prayer- 'Asr). And stand before Allah with obedience (and do not speak to others during the Salah (prayers)), so we were commanded to be silent."

Scholarly Commentary

This narration demonstrates the abrogation (naskh) in Islamic law, where an earlier ruling is replaced by a later revelation. Initially, speaking during prayer for necessary matters was permissible in the early days of Islam.

The verse referenced is from Surah Al-Baqarah (2:238), which established the prohibition of speech during formal prayer (salah). This divine injunction transformed the nature of prayer from including worldly discourse to complete devotion and concentration before Allah.

The scholars explain that this prohibition applies to all unnecessary speech during prayer. Exceptions remain for necessary matters like correcting the Imam's recitation or alerting to danger, as established in other authentic narrations.

The phrase "middle prayer" has been interpreted by various classical scholars as referring to either the Asr prayer or the Fajr prayer, with the majority opinion favoring Asr due to its timing and spiritual significance.

Legal Rulings

Speaking intentionally during prayer without valid reason invalidates the prayer according to the majority of scholars.

Forgetful speech or minimal utterances do not necessarily invalidate the prayer but should be avoided.

This ruling applies to all obligatory and voluntary prayers alike, emphasizing the sacred nature of communion with Allah.