Chapter 93 - Excellence of Walking Solemnly (Towards the Masjid) to perform As-Salat (The Prayer) and other Religious Duties

Allah, the Exalted, says:

"And whosoever honours the Symbols of Allah, then it is truly from the piety of the heart.'' (22:32)


Abu Hurairah reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah saying,

"When the Iqamah are pronounced, do not come to it running, you should walk calmly with tranquility to join the congregation. Then join in what you catch for and complete what you miss.''  [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].


In Muslim it is added: The Messenger of Allah said, "For when one of you is walking for Salat, he is, in fact, engaged in Salat.''


Commentary: This Hadith prevents us from running or walking hurriedly in order to join a congregational prayer because this is undignified. Whereas, we are commanded to be self-composed and dignified with regard to all matters. Secondly, when a believer walks up to the masjid after performing ablution at home, he is considered to be in a state of Salat. Thirdly, the first Rak`ah he prays behind the Imam will be counted his first Rak`ah, so he must make up for the Rak`ah he may have missed, if any, after the Imam has concluded his Salat.

Ibn `Abbas (Radhi Allahu Anhuma) reported: I accompanied the Prophet while we were returning from `Arafat. The Messenger of Allah heard behind him a loud noise of beating and of driving the camels forcibly. He pointed towards it with his whip and said,

"O people! Proceed calmly. No virtue lies in rushing.'' [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].


Commentary: People return from `Arafat jostling against one another as if they are being thrust forward from behind. Such an act is incompatible with decorum. The Messenger of Allah advised them to observe tranquility and orderliness and to avoid a disorderly haste. There is indeed dire need to act upon this advice of The Messenger of Allah at Hajj sites during the performance of the sacred rites. May Allah guide Muslims! Ameen