"Abu Mus'ad said: 'Shall I not show you how the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) prayed?' We said: 'Yes.' So he stood up and said the takbir, and when he bowed, he held his arms out from his sides until, when every part of him settled, he raised his head. He prayed four rak'ahs like that, and said: 'This is how I saw the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) praying.'"
Hadith Text & Context
"Abu Mus'ad said: 'Shall I not show you how the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) prayed?' We said: 'Yes.' So he stood up and said the takbir, and when he bowed, he held his arms out from his sides until, when every part of him settled, he raised his head. He prayed four rak'ahs like that, and said: 'This is how I saw the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) praying.'"
Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 1038 | Book: The Book of The At-Tatbiq (Clasping One's Hands Together)
Commentary on Rukoo' Posture
The phrase "he held his arms out from his sides" indicates the proper posture during rukoo' (bowing). Classical scholars explain this means the elbows should be away from the torso, creating space between the arms and sides.
Imam an-Nawawi states this demonstrates the sunnah of keeping the back straight and level during rukoo', with hands firmly placed on knees while maintaining this outward position of the arms.
Significance of Stability
"Until every part of him settled" emphasizes tuma'ninah (calmness and stability) in prayer. Scholars like Ibn Qudamah stress that each position in prayer must be maintained with complete stillness before transitioning.
This tranquility is a pillar (rukn) of prayer according to the majority of scholars - without it, the prayer is invalid. The hadith shows the Prophet's perfect implementation of this requirement.
Method of Instruction
Abu Mus'ad's practical demonstration reflects the Prophetic method of teaching through action. Scholars note that physical demonstration is particularly effective in teaching acts of worship where posture and movement are essential.
His concluding statement "This is how I saw" establishes the authenticity of the transmission and emphasizes the importance of following the Prophet's exact manner of prayer without addition or omission.