"Whoever forgets a prayer, let him pray it when he remembers it, for Allah says: and perform the Salah for My remembrance." [1][1] Ta-Ha 20:14.
Hadith Commentary
This narration from Sunan an-Nasa'i 619 addresses the important matter of making up missed prayers due to forgetfulness. The Prophet (peace be upon him) establishes that when a Muslim forgets to perform a prayer at its prescribed time, the obligation remains until it is fulfilled.
Legal Ruling (Hukm)
The consensus among classical scholars is that intentionally abandoning prayer is a major sin, but forgetting necessitates immediate performance upon remembrance. This hadith provides relief and demonstrates Allah's mercy in His legislation.
Quranic Connection
The Prophet supported this ruling with the divine injunction from Surah Ta-Ha: "Establish prayer for My remembrance." This verse connects the temporal aspect of prayer with its spiritual essence - remembrance of Allah. Even when delayed, the prayer remains an act of devotion and remembrance.
Scholarly Interpretation
Imam an-Nawawi comments that this hadith demonstrates the continuity of religious obligations until they are performed. Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that the phrase "when he remembers" indicates immediacy - one must perform the prayer as soon as recollection occurs, without unnecessary delay.
Practical Application
The forgotten prayer should be made up in its complete form, with all required rak'ahs. There is no sin upon the forgetful person, but diligence in performing prayers at their proper times remains obligatory. This ruling applies to all five daily prayers.