The Book of Forgetfulness (In Prayer) - Sunan an-Nasa'i 1229

"The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) forgot and said the taslim after two rak'ahs. Dhul-Shimalain said to him: 'Has the prayer been shortened or did you forget, O Messenger of Allah (ﷺ)?' The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Is Dhul-Yadain speaking the truth?' They said: "Yes." So the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) stood up and completed the prayer."

Commentary on the Hadith

This narration demonstrates the human aspect of the Prophet (ﷺ) and establishes the legal principle of sahw (forgetfulness) in prayer. Even the Messenger of Allah, though protected from major errors, could experience minor lapses in concentration, showing Allah's mercy to the ummah.

The companion's name appears differently as Dhul-Shimalain (possessor of two left hands) and Dhul-Yadain (possessor of two hands), which scholars reconcile as referring to the same person with different narrations of his nickname.

The Prophet's question "Is Dhul-Yadain speaking the truth?" indicates proper verification before acting upon correction, establishing that one may accept correction in prayer if certain of its accuracy.

The completion of prayer after taslim demonstrates the ruling for one who mistakenly ends prayer early: they must rise and complete what remains, then perform the prostration of forgetfulness (sujud al-sahw) at the end.

Legal Rulings Derived

Forgetfulness in prayer does not invalidate it; rather, specific corrective measures are prescribed.

One who omits part of the prayer unintentionally must complete it and perform sujud al-sahw.

Correction of the imam is permissible when there is certainty about an error.

The imam should verify the correction before acting upon it to maintain prayer decorum.