Hadith Text & Reference

"I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) say: 'Whoever is in the Masjid waiting for the prayer, he is in a state of prayer.'"

Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 734, The Book of the Masjids

Meaning & Significance

This noble hadith indicates that a Muslim who sits in the mosque with the intention of waiting for the prayer receives the reward of being in continuous prayer (salah) during that waiting period.

The phrase "in a state of prayer" means the person is recorded as performing prayer and receiving its spiritual rewards, even while sitting quietly, provided they maintain proper mosque etiquette and remain free from idle talk.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam an-Nawawi explains this refers to one who sits in the mosque for the purpose of worship, awaiting the congregational prayer. Such a person is considered in a state of spiritual connection with Allah.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani clarifies that this reward applies specifically to waiting for obligatory prayers, not voluntary ones, and requires the person to avoid worldly conversations and improper conduct.

The scholars emphasize that this demonstrates the immense virtue of mosques and the high status of those who frequent them for worship, showing Allah's generosity in multiplying rewards for simple acts of devotion.

Practical Implications

Muslims should arrive early to the mosque before prayers to gain this continuous reward.

While waiting, one should engage in remembrance of Allah (dhikr), recitation of Quran, or beneficial knowledge rather than idle talk.

This hadith encourages making mosques centers of spiritual activity and highlights the importance of intention in worship.