The Prophet (ﷺ) passed by him when he was praying, and called him. He said: "I finished praying, then I came to him, and he said: 'What kept you from answering me?' He said: 'I was praying.' He said: 'Does not Allah say: O you who believe! Answer Allah (by obeying Him) and (His) Messenger when he calls you to that which will give you life? Shall I not teach you the greatest surah before I leave the masjid?' Then he went to leave, and I said: 'O Messenger of Allah, what about what you said?' He said: "All praise and thanks be to Allah, Lord of all that exists. These are the seven oft-recited that I have been given, and the Grand Quran.'"
The Book of the Commencement of the Prayer - Sunan an-Nasa'i 913
This narration from Sunan an-Nasa'i presents a profound incident where the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) demonstrates the proper balance between responding to the Messenger's call and completing one's prayer. The companion initially prioritized completing his prayer over immediately responding, leading to an important teaching moment.
Scholarly Commentary on the Incident
Classical scholars explain that this hadith establishes the obligation to respond immediately when the Prophet (ﷺ) calls, as indicated by the Quranic verse cited. However, the Prophet's gentle correction rather than severe rebuke indicates understanding for the companion's devotion to prayer.
The scholars note that the companion's action of completing his prayer before responding shows the high status of prayer in Islam, yet the Prophet's reminder emphasizes that responding to the Messenger takes precedence when specifically called.
Exposition of Surah al-Fatihah's Excellence
The Prophet's description of Surah al-Fatihah as "the seven oft-recited" refers to its seven verses that Muslims recite repeatedly in every rak'ah of prayer. Classical commentators explain that "the Grand Quran" designation indicates that al-Fatihah contains the essence of the entire Quran's message.
Imam al-Qurtubi and other classical scholars state that al-Fatihah is called "the seven oft-recited" because it is divided into seven verses and recited in every unit of prayer, making it the most frequently repeated portion of the Quran.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
This narration establishes the supreme status of Surah al-Fatihah in Islamic worship. Scholars derive from this that reciting al-Fatihah is obligatory in every rak'ah of prayer, as the Prophet described it as "the greatest surah" and essential to valid prayer.
The incident also teaches proper etiquette in dealing with religious scholars and teachers - the companion respectfully reminded the Prophet of his promise, demonstrating that students should seek knowledge actively while maintaining proper decorum.