"We were with the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) and we did not know anything, then the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said to us: "Every time you sit (in prayer), say: At-tahiyyatu lillahi was-salawatu wat-tayyibat, as-salamu 'alaika ayyuhan-Nabiyyu wa rahmatAllahi wa baraktuhu. As-salamu 'alaina wa 'ala 'ibad illahis-salihin, ashahdu an la illaha ill-Allah wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa rasuluhu (Allah compliments, prayers and pure words are due to Allah. Peace be upon you, O Prophet, and the mercy of Allah (SWT) and his blessings. Peace be upon us and upon the righteous slaves of Allah (SWT). I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped except Allah and I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger)."
The Book of The At-Tatbiq (Clasping One's Hands Together)
Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith 1166
Hadith Text
"We were with the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) and we did not know anything, then the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said to us: "Every time you sit (in prayer), say: At-tahiyyatu lillahi was-salawatu wat-tayyibat, as-salamu 'alaika ayyuhan-Nabiyyu wa rahmatAllahi wa baraktuhu. As-salamu 'alaina wa 'ala 'ibad illahis-salihin, ashahdu an la illaha ill-Allah wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa rasuluhu (Allah compliments, prayers and pure words are due to Allah. Peace be upon you, O Prophet, and the mercy of Allah (SWT) and his blessings. Peace be upon us and upon the righteous slaves of Allah (SWT). I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped except Allah and I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger)."
Scholarly Commentary
This hadith establishes the essential recitation known as At-Tashahhud, which is obligatory in every sitting during prayer. The Companions' initial state of ignorance highlights the gradual revelation of prayer's details.
"At-tahiyyatu" refers to all forms of glorification and permanence, indicating that all enduring praise belongs solely to Allah. "As-salawatu" signifies all forms of worship and devotion, while "at-tayyibat" denotes pure words and righteous deeds.
The greeting to the Prophet (ﷺ) demonstrates the honor due to him, even after his passing, as angels convey these salutations. The subsequent greeting encompasses all righteous believers, emphasizing Muslim unity.
The twin testimony of faith (Shahadatayn) constitutes the core of Islamic belief, reaffirming Allah's exclusive right to worship and Muhammad's perfect servitude and messengership. This comprehensive supplication combines praise, greetings, and fundamental creed.
Legal Rulings
This recitation is wajib (obligatory) in every sitting where Tashahhud is required. Its omission invalidates the prayer if intentional, while unintentional omission requires prostration of forgetfulness.
Scholars agree this is the most authentic form of Tashahhud, though other narrated versions are also permissible. The sitting posture should be calm and dignified while reciting these words.