Hadith Reference

Jami` at-Tirmidhi 476 | The Book on Al-Witr | Jami' at-Tirmidhi

Arabic Text

من صلى الضحى ركعتين لم يكتب من الغافلين، ومن صلى أربعاً كتب من العابدين، ومن صلى ستاً كفي ذلك اليوم، ومن صلى ثمانياً كتب من القانتين، ومن صلى ثنتي عشرة ركعة بنى الله له بيتاً في الجنة

Translation

"Whoever continuously performs the two Rak'ah of Ad-Duha his sins will be forgiven, even if they be like the foam of the sea."

Commentary on the Merit

This noble hadith establishes the immense virtue of Salat al-Duha, also known as Ishraq prayer. The Prophet ﷺ emphasizes that consistent performance of just two rak'ahs during the forenoon brings about complete forgiveness of sins, regardless of their magnitude.

The comparison to "the foam of the sea" is a powerful Arabic rhetorical device (kinayah) indicating the vast quantity and weight of sins that can be erased through this simple yet profound act of worship.

Legal Ruling (Hukm)

The majority of scholars, including Imam Abu Hanifah, Imam Malik, and Imam al-Shafi'i, consider Salat al-Duha to be a confirmed sunnah (sunnah mu'akkadah), not obligatory. It is highly recommended, especially for those who regularly perform the night prayer (Tahajjud).

Timing & Performance

The time for Duha begins when the sun has risen to the height of a spear (approximately 15-20 minutes after sunrise) and extends until shortly before noon (zawal). The optimal time is when the sun has become hot, which is about a quarter of the day before noon.

The minimum is two rak'ahs, though one may pray up to eight or twelve, as mentioned in other narrations. It is performed in units of two rak'ahs with salams.

Spiritual Benefits

This prayer serves as a means of seeking forgiveness, purification from sins, and drawing closer to Allah. It demonstrates gratitude for the blessings of the day and serves as spiritual protection. The continuity mentioned in the hadith indicates the importance of making it a regular practice rather than an occasional one.