Hadith Reference

Jami` at-Tirmidhi 181 - The Book on Salat (Prayer) by Imam at-Tirmidhi

Textual Analysis

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) explicitly identified "Salatul-Wusta" (the Middle Prayer) as the Asr prayer in this authentic narration.

This clarification resolves the scholarly difference of opinion regarding which prayer is referred to as "the Middle Prayer" in Quran 2:238.

Quranic Context

"Guard strictly the prayers, and the Middle Prayer, and stand before Allah in devotion." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:238)

This hadith provides the definitive interpretation of this Quranic injunction, specifying which prayer requires special vigilance.

Scholarly Significance

Imam at-Tirmidhi classified this hadith as hasan sahih (good and authentic), giving it strong evidentiary weight in Islamic jurisprudence.

The Asr prayer's designation as "middle" reflects its position between the daytime and nighttime prayers, serving as a spiritual pivot point in the Muslim's day.

Practical Implications

This teaching emphasizes the particular importance of performing the Asr prayer on time and with full presence of heart.

Muslims are encouraged to be especially vigilant about not delaying or missing the Asr prayer, given its special status as the Middle Prayer.