The Book of The At-Tatbiq (Clasping One's Hands Together)

Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith 1032

Hadith Text

"I prayed beside my father and I put my hands between my knees, and he told me: 'Put your hands on your knees.' Then I did that again and he struck my hands and said: 'We were forbidden to do that, and we were commanded to put our hands on our knees.'"

Commentary on the Prohibition

This narration establishes the prohibition of placing one's hands between the knees during prayer, which constitutes an innovation (bid'ah) contrary to the established Sunnah. The father's correction demonstrates the importance of preserving authentic prayer practices.

The striking of hands indicates the seriousness with which the Companions treated deviations from proper prayer form, especially when teaching the younger generation.

Proper Hand Placement in Ruku'

The authentic Sunnah requires placing the palms firmly on the knees during bowing (ruku'), with fingers spread apart. This position demonstrates proper submission and follows the Prophet's instruction: "When you bow, place your palms on your knees and spread your fingers."

Placing hands between the knees disrupts the proper form and diminishes the completeness of the bowing position that reflects humility before Allah.

Educational Methodology

The father's approach combines verbal instruction with physical correction, reflecting the Prophetic method of teaching through demonstration and gentle physical guidance when necessary.

This incident illustrates how Islamic knowledge was transmitted practically from one generation to another, ensuring preservation of authentic practices.

Legal Ruling

The majority of scholars consider placing hands on the knees during ruku' to be obligatory (wajib) based on this and similar narrations. The prohibition mentioned indicates the action's invalidity if done intentionally without valid excuse.

This ruling applies to both obligatory and voluntary prayers, as the form of prayer remains consistent regardless of prayer type.