Which is better: this, or more frequent bowing and prostration with briefer standing? In the latter case, the standing, bowing, and prostration are kept proportionate, all being brief.

The second case is to prolong the standing and likewise prolong the bowing and prostration. The question then is: which is better—this, or more frequent standing, bowing, and prostration? In both alternatives, the standing, bowing, and prostration are kept proportionate. But which is better: prolonging the prayer’s standing, bowing, and prostration, or performing them more frequently while keeping them brief? Regarding this case, Abū Muhammad and others mentioned three reported views. The wording of others indicates that the disagreement also concerns the first case.

The correct view regarding the first case is that keeping the prayer brief, with more frequent bowing and prostration and briefer standing, is better than prolonging the standing alone while keeping the bowing and prostration brief. Those who preferred prolonged standing cited the authentic hadith:

“The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, was asked, ‘Which prayer is best?’ He replied, ‘Prolonged devotion.’”

They assumed that “prolonged devotion” meant prolonged standing, even when accompanied by brief bowing and prostration. But that is not so.

For devotion means sustained worship and obedience. Someone who prolongs prostration may be described as devoutly obedient. Allah Most High says:

“What of one who is devoutly obedient during the hours of the night, prostrating and standing, fearing the Hereafter and hoping for his Lord’s mercy?”

Thus, He describes him as devoutly obedient while prostrating, just as he is devoutly obedient while standing, and mentions prostration before standing.