Chapter 22: Forgetfulness in Prayer
Narrated Sahl bin Sa 'd As-Sa 'idi: The news about the differences amongst the people of Bani 'Amr bin 'Auf reached Allah' s Messenger (ﷺ)
and so he went to them along with some of his companions to effect a reconciliation between them.
Allah' s Messenger (ﷺ) was delayed there, and the time of the prayer was due. Bilal went to Abu Bakr and
said to him, "Allah' s Messenger (ﷺ) has been delayed (there) and the time of prayer is due. So will you lead
the people in prayer?" Abu Bakr said, "Yes, if you wish." Bilal pronounced the Iqama and Abu Bakr,
went forward and said Takbir for the people. In the meantime Allah' s Messenger (ﷺ) came crossing the rows
(of the praying people) and stood in the (first) row and the people started clapping. Abu Bakr, would
never glance sideways in his prayer but when the people clapped much he looked back and (ﷺ)
Allah' s Messenger (ﷺ). Allah' s Messenger (ﷺ) beckoned him to carry on the prayer. Abu Bakr raised his hands and
thanked Allah, and retreated till he reached the (first) row. Allah' s Messenger (ﷺ) went forward and led the
people in the prayer. When he completed the prayer he faced the people and said, "O people! Why did
you start clapping when something unusual happened to you in the prayer? Clapping is only for
women. So whoever amongst you comes across something in the prayer should say, 'Subhan-Allah'
for there is none who will not turn round on hearing him saying Subhan-Allah. O Abu Bakr! What
prevented you from leading the people in the prayer when I beckoned you to do so?" Abu Bakr
replied, "How dare the son of Abu Quhafa lead the prayer in the presence of Allah' s Messenger (ﷺ) ?"
Sahih al-Bukhari 1234