Q 2: It is reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:
"Anyone who does not pray `Asr (Afternoon) Prayer will have his (good) deeds annulled."
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) spoke the truth. My question is whether all the good deeds of such a person will be annulled? Please explain the Hadith for me.
A:
The correct wording of the Hadith is:
Anyone who misses `Asr Prayer (intentionally) will have his (good) deeds annulled.
The Hadith refers to those who deliberately delay the performance of the obligatory Salah (Prayer) until the expiry of its time. It is to be understood according to its literal meaning. Moreover, some scholars are of the view that deliberate delaying of the performance of the obligatory Salah until the expiry of its time is tantamount to Riddah (apostasy). (Part No. 3; Page No. 280
A:
The correct wording of the Hadith is:
Anyone who misses `Asr Prayer (intentionally) will have his (good) deeds annulled.
The Hadith refers to those who deliberately delay the performance of the obligatory Salah (Prayer) until the expiry of its time. It is to be understood according to its literal meaning. Moreover, some scholars are of the view that deliberate delaying of the performance of the obligatory Salah until the expiry of its time is tantamount to Riddah (apostasy). (Part No. 3; Page No. 280) Finally, some other scholars are of the opinion that the Hadith in question belongs to the category of Hadiths that indicate threatening the sinners.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.