Question

Please confirm whether the following Hadith is authentic and the source:

Sayyidah ‘Aishah (radiyallahu ‘anha) reports,

“By Allah, Who took away the Prophet, Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) never missed them [the two rak’ahs after the ‘Asr Salah] till he met Allah and he did not meet Allah till it became difficult for him to pray while standing so he used to offer most of the prayers while sitting. [She meant the two rak’ahs after ‘Asr]. He used to pray them in the house and never prayed them in the Masjid lest it be difficult on his ummah and he loved what was easy for them”

Answer

Imam Bukhari (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration in his Sahih. The narration is therefore authentic.

(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 590)

Many Muhaddithun were of the opinion that these two rak’ahs of optional Salah were specific for Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) as there are authentic narrations which prohibit offering Salah after ‘Asr.

(Refer: Fathul Bari)

I have merely answered your question regarding the authenticity of the narration. This should not be viewed as a Fiqh ruling. Kindly refer to a reliable Mufti/Darul Ifta for clarification.

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar