Question

Is the following Hadith authentic?

“When a person makes sajdah, all his limbs are also in sajdah, So he should face his limbs towards the qiblah as much as possible”

Answer

This narration is quoted in certain Fiqh books. Hafiz Ibn Hajar (rahimahullah) states that he has not come across this narration. Caution demands that these words not be quoted as a Hadith of Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam).

Hafiz Ibn Hajar (rahimahullah) further says, “I think the words  ‘So he should face his limbs towards the qiblah as much as possible’ are not part of the Hadith, rather this is the statement of the author”

(Ad Dirayah, vol. 1, pg. 268. Also see: Al Mu’jamul Kabir, Hadith: 9325 and 9326)

However, there are authentic narrations which emphasise the fact that a person should face the qiblah with other limbs as well.

Sayyiduna Abu Humayd As Sa’idi (radiyallahu ‘anhu) describing the Salah of Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said:

“When Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) went into sajdah, he placed his arms so that they were neither stretched out nor held close. His toes pointed towards the qiblah…”

(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 828)

Kindly refer to a reputable Mufti/Darul Ifta for further clarification.

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar