"The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to say the takbir every time he went down and came up, and he would say the Salam to his right and his left. And Abu Bakr and 'Umar used to do likewise."
Hadith Text & Reference
"The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to say the takbir every time he went down and came up, and he would say the Salam to his right and his left. And Abu Bakr and 'Umar used to do likewise."
Source: Sunan an-Nasa'i 1083 | The Book of The At-Tatbiq (Clasping One's Hands Together)
Commentary on the Takbir
The takbir (saying "Allahu Akbar") during prayer movements demonstrates complete submission to Allah's majesty. Each movement transition is sanctified through remembrance of Allah's greatness.
Scholars note this establishes the sunnah of verbal dhikr accompanying physical acts of worship, ensuring the prayer remains a continuous conversation with the Divine rather than mere ritual movements.
Significance of the Practice
This narration establishes the obligatory nature of saying takbir during transitions in prayer - when bowing (ruku'), rising from it, and prostrating (sujood).
The mention of Abu Bakr and 'Umar following this practice confirms its established continuity in the early Muslim community and reinforces its importance as a fundamental prayer component.
Scholarly Interpretation
Imam an-Nawawi explains that these takbirat maintain spiritual awareness throughout prayer, preventing distraction and ensuring each movement is consciously dedicated to Allah.
The practice also serves as audible markers for congregation prayer, helping worshippers maintain unity in their movements behind the imam.
Legal Ruling & Consensus
The majority of scholars consider these takbirat as emphasized sunnah (sunnah mu'akkadah), with some early scholars considering them obligatory (wajib) based on the consistent practice shown in this hadith.
The consensus of the four madhahib affirms the recommendation of saying takbir for all postural changes during prayer, following the Prophet's established tradition.