Is reciting the prescribed form of sending blessings upon the Prophet (Salat 'ala an-Nabi) in the final Tashahhud obligatory?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
Reciting the prescribed blessings upon the Prophet (PBUH) after the Tashahhud, using the wording mentioned (e.g., 'Allahumma salli 'ala Muhammad...'), is obligatory according to the soundest position of the Madhhab, and it is the view of Al-Shafi'i and Ishaq. Evidence cited supporting obligation includes the command given to the companions after teaching them the Tashahhud: 'When one of you recites the Tashahhud, let him seek refuge in Allah from four things,' which implies immediate action following the Tashahhud without separation. Furthermore, the companions narrated a statement implying completion of prayer upon reciting it: 'If you have said this—or finished this—then your prayer is complete.'
Supporting text
There is a differing opinion that it is not obligatory, held by Ahmad (in one narration), Malik, Al-Thawri, the people of sound judgment (*Ashab ar-Ra'y*), and the majority of scholars according to Ibn Al-Mundhir. They cite the Hadith of Ibn Mas'ud regarding the Tashahhud: 'If you have said this, then your prayer is complete,' suggesting that the prayer is finalized without requiring further recitation. Ibn Al-Mundhir also states he does not find evidence necessitating a repetition of the prayer if it is omitted.