What is the authenticity of the Hadith: "The heaviest prayers for hypocrites are the ‘Isha prayer and the Fajr prayer. If they knew what was in them, they would come to them even if crawling. I had intended to order the prayer to be established, then I would order a man to lead the people in prayer, then I would set off with men carrying bundles of firewood to people who do not attend the prayer and burn down their houses with fire"? And does the Hadith indicate that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, did not hasten to judge Safwan ibn Al-Mu'attal when his wife said: "Indeed, my husband Safwan ibn Al-Mu'attal beats me if I pray, and makes me break my fast if I fast, and does not perform any prayer"?
The hadith "The heaviest prayers for the hypocrites..." is authentic and indicates the burden of Isha and Fajr prayers on the hypocrites. The hadith of Safwan ibn Muattal is also authentic, where his wife complained about him hitting her, making her break her fast, and delaying the Fajr prayer. However, Safwan, may Allah be pleased with him, was excused for delaying Fajr prayer due to being overcome by sleep, and he was not a hypocrite, as the Prophet testified to his goodness. A believer may be overcome by sleep, missing the prayer, whereas a hypocrite finds prayer burdensome even when awake.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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