"Whoever us not sure about his prayer, then let him estimate what is correct, then let him prostrate twice after he finished his prayer, while he is sitting."
Hadith Text & Reference
"Whoever is not sure about his prayer, then let him estimate what is correct, then let him prostrate twice after he finished his prayer, while he is sitting."
Source: Sunan an-Nasa'i 1245 | Book: The Book of Forgetfulness (In Prayer)
Meaning & Context
This hadith establishes the ruling for the Prostration of Forgetfulness (Sujud al-Sahw). It addresses the situation where a worshipper experiences doubt during their prayer regarding the number of rak'ahs performed.
The command to "estimate what is correct" means the person should base their decision on what they are more certain of or what is most likely. They should then complete the prayer based on this estimation.
Legal Ruling & Implementation
The two prostrations mentioned are performed after the final Tashahhud and Tasleem (the closing salutation). They are performed while sitting, by prostrating twice, with the Takbir (saying "Allahu Akbar") for each movement.
Between these two prostrations, one sits for a brief moment, as in a normal prayer cycle. After the second prostration, the final Tashahhud and Tasleem are given to conclude the prayer.
Scholarly Commentary
The scholars agree that this prostration compensates for minor errors or doubts within the prayer. It is a mercy from Allah, allowing the prayer to be rectified and accepted despite human oversight.
This ruling applies to obligatory and supererogatory prayers. The wisdom behind performing it at the end is to seal the prayer with an act of humility and submission, seeking Allah's acceptance.