The Book of Forgetfulness (In Prayer) - Sunan an-Nasa'i 1226

"The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) led us in praying 'Asr, and he said the salam after two rak'ahs. Dhul-Yadain stood up and said: 'Has the prayer been shortened, O Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) or did you forget?' The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Neither.' He said: 'One of them happened, O Messenger of Allah (ﷺ).' The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) turned to the people and said: 'Is Dhul-Yadain speaking the truth?' They said: 'Yes.' So the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) completed what was left of the prayer, then he prostrated twice when he was sitting after the taslim."

Commentary on the Prophetic Guidance

This noble hadith establishes the legislation of the Prostration of Forgetfulness (Sujud al-Sahw) and demonstrates the perfection of Islamic law in addressing human oversight. The Prophet's initial denial followed by acceptance shows his humility and the permissibility of correcting even the Imam when necessary.

Dhul-Yadain's respectful inquiry exemplifies the proper manner of addressing religious authorities when clarification is needed. The Prophet's consultation with the congregation before acting establishes the principle of verification in communal matters.

The completion of missed rak'ahs followed by the two prostrations of forgetfulness demonstrates the prescribed remedy for prayer omissions. This incident reveals divine wisdom in making accommodation for human fallibility while maintaining prayer validity.

Legal Rulings Derived

The Prostration of Forgetfulness is obligatory when shortening prayer unintentionally. Correction of the Imam is permitted when done respectfully and with proper evidence. Verification through consultation is recommended before implementing corrective actions. The sequence for correction is: complete missed portions, then perform taslim, then perform sujud al-sahw.