"Pray in your houses and do not make them like graves."
The Book of Qiyam Al-Lail (The Night Prayer) and Voluntary Prayers During the Day - Sunan an-Nasa'i
Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 1598
Hadith Text
"Pray in your houses and do not make them like graves."
Commentary on the Prohibition
This noble hadith contains a profound wisdom from the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. The comparison of houses to graves when no prayer is performed therein serves as a powerful deterrent. Just as graves are places devoid of worship and remembrance of Allah, so too would a house become spiritually dead if no prayers are offered within it. This emphasizes that homes should be centers of worship and spiritual life.
Scholarly Interpretation
The scholars explain that this hadith primarily refers to voluntary (nafil) prayers, as obligatory prayers are better performed in congregation at the mosque. Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani states that performing voluntary prayers at home prevents the house from resembling graves, which are places where no prayer occurs. This practice brings blessings (barakah) into the home and establishes it as a place where angels descend and mercy prevails.
Practical Application
The wisdom behind this instruction includes: preserving the sanctity of voluntary worship from ostentation, making the home a center of divine light, teaching family members by example, and distinguishing Muslim homes through constant remembrance of Allah. Scholars recommend designating a specific place in the home for prayer to maintain this spiritual atmosphere continuously.