When the Prophet of Allah (ﷺ) started to pray, he raised his hands, and when he bowed, he did likewise, and when he raised his head from bowing he did likewise, and when he raised his head from prostration, he did likewise, meaning he raised his hands.
The Book of The At-Tatbiq (Clasping One's Hands Together) - Sunan an-Nasa'i
Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 1143
Textual Analysis
This narration describes the Prophet's practice of raising hands at four specific points during prayer: at the opening takbir, when bowing (ruku'), when rising from bowing, and when rising from prostration.
The phrase "he did likewise" indicates consistent repetition of the hand-raising motion, establishing this as a confirmed sunnah practice rather than occasional action.
Juridical Significance
This hadith provides evidence for the recommended practice of raf al-yadayn (raising hands) at these four positions according to the Shafi'i and Hanbali schools.
Scholars note the hands should be raised to shoulder level with palms facing the qiblah, fingers extended naturally, not excessively spread or tightly closed.
Spiritual Dimensions
The repeated hand-raising symbolizes the worshipper's continuous connection with Allah, beginning each major transition in prayer with this gesture of submission.
Each raising represents a renewal of intention and awareness, moving from one state of devotion to another while maintaining spiritual presence.
Comparative Jurisprudence
The Hanafi school limits hand-raising to the opening takbir based on their assessment of conflicting evidences, while accepting this narration as authentic but interpreting it differently.
Maliki scholars generally recommend hand-raising only at the opening takbir, considering other instances as either abrogated or less emphasized.