When should hands be raised during salah according to the Sunnah?

In a Nutshell: Raising hands during specific postures in Salah is a practice supported by the Prophet's (saw) traditions. This answer considers the occasions for raising hands in prayer according to the Sunnah, providing evidence from the Quran and Hadith and addressing common misconceptions. Table of Contents Introduction Background and Context Evidences Raising Hands During Salah FAQs Misconceptions about Raising Hands During Salah Conclusion Introduction Salah, the Islamic prayer, is a cornerstone of Muslim practice. Performing Salah in the way Prophet (saw) demonstrated, following the Sunnah, is essential for fulfilling this obligation. This includes specific postures throughout the prayer and raising hands at certain points during Salah is one such practice. Understanding the occasions for raising hands and the manner of doing so contributes to a more mindful and authentic prayer experience. Evidences Quranic Verses: The Quran emphasizes raising hands in supplication to Allah (swt). Quran 2:186 Raise your hands in supplication [to Allah ] during [the standing position of] prayer. And fear Him [while you are standing ] and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient. Hadiths: Several hadiths narrate the Prophet's (saw) practice of raising hands during Salah. A narration in Sahih Muslim describes the Prophet (saw) raising his hands level to his shoulders at the beginning of prayer, saying Allahu Akbar (God is Most Great). Sahih Muslim 390 Another narration from Sunan Abu Dawud details the Prophet (saw) raising his hands before bowing (Ruku') and after rising from Ruku', again pronouncing Allahu Akbar. Sunan Abu Dawud 766 These hadiths establish raising hands at the beginning of prayer, before Ruku' and after rising from Ruku' as practices of the Prophet (saw). It's important to note that reliable hadiths do not mention raising hands between prostrations or while in Sujud (prostration). Scholars' Opinions: Prominent Islamic scholars across different schools of thought concur with the Sunnah regarding raising hands at the designated points in Salah. However, there may be slight variations in the details of hand position or supplications recited while raising hands. Raising Hands During Salah Raising hands during Salah holds symbolic and practical significance. Here's a breakdown: Symbolism: Raising hands signifies submission and devotion to Allah (swt). It's a gesture of initiating prayer, seeking guidance in Ruku' and expressing gratitude upon rising from prostration. Practical Considerations: Raising hands serves as a visual marker for transitions between prayer postures. This can be particularly helpful in communal prayers where synchronization is encouraged. Maintaining Proper Form: While raising hands, some scholars recommend keeping them open and palms facing the Qiblah (direction of the Kaaba). The height can vary slightly, with some suggesting shoulder-level and others mentioning earlobes. The key is to maintain a posture that expresses humility and respect while remaining comfortable throughout the prayer. Following the Sunnah: It's important to distinguish between raising hands as part of the Sunnah and raising hands in supplication (Dua) during specific moments in Salah. While the former is a recommended practice, the latter is an essential part of the prayer itself. Here's a helpful quote from Imam An-Nawawi (ra), a revered Islamic scholar: Raising the hands at the beginning of prayer and when rising from Ruku' is Mustahab (recommended practice) according to the majority of scholars.(An-Nawawi, Sharh Muslim) Understanding the purpose and evidence behind raising hands allows Muslims to incorporate this practice meaningfully into their Salah routine. FAQs on Raising Hands During Salah How high should I raise my hands? There are varying opinions on the exact height. While some scholars recommend raising hands to the shoulders, others suggest raising them up to the earlobes. Ultimately, the emphasis is on maintaining a respectful and comfortable posture. What should I recite while raising hands? While raising hands, many Muslims pronounce Allahu Akbar (God is Most Great). Additionally, supplications (duas) can be recited during specific moments in Salah, such as after rising from Ruku' or prostration. What if I have physical limitations that prevent me from raising hands? If someone has a physical condition that restricts raising their hands, they can simply make a slight gesture to indicate the intention to raise hands. The core of prayer lies in sincerity and devotion and Allah (swt) recognizes our limitations. Misconceptions Raising hands throughout Salah is obligatory. While raising hands at certain positions in Salah is a Sunnah practice, it's not obligatory. If someone omits this act, it does not invalidate their Salah. Raising hands is a cultural practice, not a religious requirement. The practice of raising hands in Salah stems from the Prophet's (saw) teachings found in authentic hadiths. As such, it constitutes an important aspect of Islamic ritual prayer. There's no specific mention of raising hands in every prayer position in the Quran. While not explicitly mentioned in every context, the Quran encourages supplication, humility and surrender to Allah (swt), which align with the act of raising hands in prayer. Raising hands might seem like showing off or attracting attention during prayer. The act of raising hands in prayer should be inwardly focused, done with sincerity and a desire to connect with Allah (swt). The intention and inner state of the person performing Salah are of primary importance. Conclusion Raising hands at the beginning of Salah, before Ruku' and after rising from Ruku' is a well-established Sunnah practice rooted in the Quran and Hadith. Its symbolic significance and the practical element of ensuring smooth transitions within Salah make it a meaningful addition to the Muslim's prayer ritual.