"When the call for the prayer is given, the Shaitan takes to his heels, passing wind loudly so that he will not hear the call to prayer. When the call to prayer is finished, he comes back. And when the Iqamah is said, he again takes to his heels, and after it is completed, he returns again to interfere between the (praying) person and his heart, saying to him: 'Remember such and such, remember such and such,' - things that he had not remembered - until he does not know how many (Rak'ahs) he has prayed."
The Book of the Adhan (The Call to Prayer)
Sunan an-Nasa'i 670
Hadith Commentary
This profound narration reveals the spiritual significance of the Adhan and Iqamah. The Shaitan's flight demonstrates the sanctity of these calls to prayer, which create a sacred space free from his influence. His noisy departure signifies both his defiance and the power of divine remembrance to dispel evil.
The Shaitan's return after each call shows his persistent nature, yet his inability to remain during the sacred announcements highlights Allah's protection over the prayer ritual. His interference between the worshipper and heart represents the subtle whispers (waswas) that disrupt concentration.
Scholarly Insights
Classical scholars explain that the Shaitan flees because the Adhan contains declarations of Allah's greatness and the testimony of faith, which he cannot bear to hear. His passing wind symbolizes his rage and humiliation at being expelled from this sacred moment.
The mention of making one forget prayer counts serves as a warning about the importance of mindfulness (khushu') in prayer. Scholars advise seeking refuge in Allah from Satan's whispers and focusing intently on each movement and recitation.
Practical Implications
This hadith teaches Muslims to value the Adhan, respond to it properly, and recognize it as spiritual warfare against Satan. It emphasizes the need for concentration in prayer and understanding that forgetfulness may be from Satanic interference rather than personal deficiency.
The narration encourages developing presence of heart during prayer and using prescribed remembrances to counteract Satan's whispers, ensuring the prayer remains a pure connection between the worshipper and Allah.