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HOW TO DRAW THE ATTENTION OF THE IMAM IF HE MAKES AN ERROR IN PRAYER

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The Prophet, praise and peace be upon him, learned that a dispute had arisen between members of the children of Amr, the son of Auf.

He and some of his Companions went to reconcile between them and were detained by their hospitality.

The time for prayer arrived and Bilal went to Abu Bakr and asked him: "The Messenger of Allah, praise and peace be upon him, has been detained and it is time for prayer, will you lead the people in prayer?" He replied: "Yes, if you wish."

Bilal made the call to prayer and Abu Bakr stepped forward and the prayer commenced. Then, the Messenger of Allah, praise and peace be upon him, arrived and walked down the rows taking his place in the first row.

Thereupon the worshipers began to clap (to signal his arrival). Abu Bakr was engrossed in the prayer and did not hear. The clapping increased and then he noticed the Prophet, praise and peace be upon him, who signaled to him to remain in his place and continue with the prayer. But Abu Bakr raised his hands, praised Allah, stepped backwards and took his place in the row.

The Prophet, praise and peace be upon him, stepped forward and led the prayer. When it was over he faced the congregation and said: ‘When you encounter something during the prayer why do you start to clap? Clapping is only for women. When any of you encounter something during the prayer he should say: 'Exalted is Allah.' This is certain to draw attention. And, Abu Bakr, what stopped you from continuing to lead the prayer after I had signaled to you?’ He replied: ‘I did not think it fitting that the son of Abu Kahafah should lead the prayer in front of the Messenger of Allah, praise and peace be upon him."

Bukhari and Muslim with a chain up to Sahl son of Sa'ad Sa'idi who related this.