It was narrated from Ibn Umar concerning the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) he said: "He used to set up a short spear then pray facing toward it."
The Book of the Qiblah - Sunan an-Nasa'i 747
It was narrated from Ibn Umar concerning the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) he said: "He used to set up a short spear then pray facing toward it."
Textual Analysis
This hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i describes the Prophet's practice of placing a short spear (ḥarbah) or stick (ʿanazah) in front of him during prayer. The Arabic term used indicates a short spear or staff that could be planted in the ground.
Juridical Ruling
The majority of scholars hold that placing a sutrah (barrier) in front of one during prayer is a confirmed Sunnah, not obligatory. This practice applies to both the imam and individual worshipper, in mosque or open space. The sutrah should be approximately the height of a saddle's back.
Wisdom and Benefits
This practice preserves prayer concentration by preventing interruptions from people or animals passing directly in front. It demarcates the prayer space and helps maintain proper direction. The Prophet's choice of a simple object teaches us that any upright object suffices as a sutrah.
Practical Application
Modern equivalents include prayer mats with built-in barriers, small stands, or any upright object. The sutrah should be placed close - within three cubits (approximately 1.5 meters). One should not allow anything to pass between themselves and the sutrah during prayer.