The Book of the Commencement of the Prayer - Sunan an-Nasa'i

Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 910

The Hadith Text

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "There is no Salah for one who does not recite Fatihatil-Kitab."

Meaning and Significance

This hadith establishes the fundamental obligation of reciting Surah al-Fatihah in every unit (rak'ah) of the prayer. The phrase "There is no Salah" indicates that the prayer is invalid and incomplete without it, emphasizing its indispensable nature.

"Fatihatil-Kitab" refers to the Opening Chapter of the Qur'an, which serves as the essence of the prayer and establishes the direct communion between the worshipper and Allah.

Juridical Ruling

According to the majority of scholars, reciting Surah al-Fatihah is a pillar (rukn) of the prayer for both the Imam and the individual praying alone. The one following the Imam recites it in silent prayers, while in audible prayers, they listen attentively to the Imam's recitation.

This ruling applies to every rak'ah of all obligatory and voluntary prayers, demonstrating the chapter's unique status in Islamic worship.

Spiritual Dimensions

Surah al-Fatihah contains the core themes of the Qur'an: praise of Allah, acknowledgment of His Lordship, affirmation of the Hereafter, and seeking guidance to the Straight Path. Its recitation transforms the prayer from mere physical movements into a profound spiritual dialogue.

The hadith teaches that prayer without al-Fatihah lacks its essential spiritual substance, as it is through these divine words that the servant properly establishes the relationship with the Creator that prayer intends to cultivate.