However, when you reflect on this hadith, it does not become clear from it that invoking blessings upon the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, is a pillar, because the Companions merely asked to be taught the manner of doing so: “How should we invoke blessings?” The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, therefore directed them to it. Hence, we say that the command in his words, “Say,” is not for obligation, but for guidance and instruction. If there is evidence other than this commanding the invocation of blessings upon the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, in the prayer, then that is what should be relied upon. But if there is no evidence other than this, it does not indicate obligation, let alone indicate that it is a pillar. For this reason, the scholars differed over this issue into several views (1):

The first view: It is a pillar. This is the well-known position of the madhhab; thus, the prayer is not valid without it.

The second view: It is obligatory, but not a pillar; therefore, if it is forgotten, it is remedied by the prostrations for forgetfulness.

They said: This is because his words, “Say: O Allah, send blessings upon Muhammad,” may indicate either obligation or guidance. In light of this possibility, it cannot be made a pillar without which the prayer is invalid.

The third view: Invoking blessings upon the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, is a sunnah; it is neither obligatory nor a pillar. This is one narration from Imam Ahmad. Even if a person deliberately omits it, his prayer is valid, because the proofs cited by those who deem it obligatory, or who consider it a pillar, do not clearly establish the position they have adopted. The basic principle is that one is free of liability.