Chapter: The Manner of Performing Prayer

He—may Allah have mercy on him—was asked:

A man was walking hurriedly to the Friday prayer. Someone objected and told him, “Walk at an unhurried pace.” The man rejected this advice, saying that Allah Most High has said:

“O you who believe, when the call is made for prayer on Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah.”

What is the correct understanding?

He replied:

The striving commanded here does not mean running. It is authentically reported that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said:

“When the call to commence prayer is given, do not come running. Rather, come walking calmly. Pray whatever you catch, and complete whatever you have missed.” Another narration reads: “Make up whatever you have missed.”

Rather, the leading scholars have explained that striving in the Book of Allah means work and action, as Allah Most High says:

“Indeed, your efforts are diverse.”

And Allah Most High says:

“Whoever desires the Hereafter and strives for it as he should, while being a believer—it is they whose striving will be appreciated.”

And Allah Most High says:

“When he turns away, he strives throughout the land to spread corruption therein.”

And Allah Most High says:

“The recompense of those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger