Hadith Text & Reference

"I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) say: 'No one will enter the Fire who prays before the sun rises and before it sets.'"

Source: Sunan an-Nasa'i 487 | The Book of Salah

Meaning & Context

This noble hadith refers to the two prayers of Fajr (dawn prayer before sunrise) and 'Asr (afternoon prayer before sunset). The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasizes the tremendous merit and protection these two prayers provide from Hellfire.

The "prayer before sunrise" is Fajr, performed at dawn, while the "prayer before sunset" is 'Asr, performed in the afternoon. These are among the five obligatory daily prayers.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam an-Nawawi explains that this hadith demonstrates the great virtue of preserving these two prayers in particular. Scholars note that these prayers are more challenging - Fajr requires waking from sleep, while 'Asr occurs during busy daytime activities.

Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali states that consistently performing these prayers indicates a person's general adherence to all Islamic obligations, thus deserving protection from Hellfire.

The protection mentioned is understood by scholars as applying to those who perform these prayers regularly with proper conditions, sincerity, and avoidance of major sins that nullify good deeds.

Practical Implications

Muslims should be particularly diligent about performing Fajr and 'Asr prayers on time in congregation when possible.

This hadith serves as strong motivation to establish the habit of waking for Fajr and pausing daily activities for 'Asr prayer.

The promise applies to those who maintain these prayers throughout their life, not merely occasional performance.