Hadith Text & Reference

"Between a slave of Allah and disbelief is abandoning the Salat."

Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2620 | Book: The Book on Faith | Author: Jami' at-Tirmidhi

Meaning & Significance

This profound hadith establishes the critical position of prayer (Salat) in Islam. The Prophet (ﷺ) declares that what stands between a Muslim and disbelief (kufr) is the abandonment of the prescribed prayers.

The wording indicates the grave danger of neglecting Salat, as it removes the barrier that protects one from falling into disbelief. Scholars explain this means that willfully abandoning prayer without valid excuse brings a person dangerously close to the boundary of kufr.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam at-Tirmidhi himself stated after recording this hadith: "This is the opinion of more than one of the people of knowledge from the Companions and others." Notable companions like Abdullah ibn Mas'ud held that whoever abandons prayer has no religion.

The majority of scholars interpret this hadith as indicating major kufr (disbelief) for one who abandons prayer while denying its obligation. Regarding one who acknowledges its obligation but neglects it out of laziness, there is scholarly difference - some considering it major kufr, others considering it a major sin falling short of disbelief.

What is unanimously agreed upon is that abandoning prayer is among the gravest of sins and constitutes a severe violation of Islamic obligations that requires immediate repentance.

Practical Implications

This hadith serves as a powerful reminder of prayer's fundamental role in maintaining one's faith. Muslims must guard their prayers diligently and never underestimate the spiritual consequences of neglect.

The preservation of faith is directly connected to maintaining the five daily prayers at their appointed times. This teaching emphasizes that Islam is not merely a system of beliefs but a way of life manifested through consistent worship.