Is the takbir (saying Allahu Akbar) when bowing and rising, the tasbih (glorification) during bowing and prostration, saying 'Sami' Allahu liman hamidah' and 'Rabbana wa lakal hamd', saying 'Rabbi ghfirli' between the two prostrations, and the first Tashahhud obligatory in prayer?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
It is the famous position attributed to Ahmad, and held by Ishaq and Dawud, that the takbir upon lowering and raising, the glorification during bowing and prostration, saying 'Sami' Allahu liman hamidah' and 'Rabbana wa lakal hamd', saying 'Rabbi ghfirli' between the two prostrations, and the first Tashahhud are obligatory (wajib). The evidence for this obligation is the command and action of the Prophet (peace be upon him), and His statement: "Pray as you have seen me praying." Furthermore, a narration by Abu Dawud, from Ali ibn Yahya ibn Khallad from his uncle, from the Prophet (peace be upon him), explicitly details these movements including the utterances, stating that the prayer is only completed after performing them, indicating obligation. Moreover, the locations of these remembrances are integral parts (Arkan) of the prayer, thus requiring obligatory recitation, similar to the standing position.
Supporting text
The opinion of the majority of jurists holds that these actions are not obligatory. Their evidence is that the Prophet (peace be upon him) did not teach them to the man who prayed badly (Al-Musi' fi Salatuhu), and delaying explanation past the time of need is impermissible. Furthermore, if they were obligatory, they would not be excused by forgetfulness (sahw), unlike the fundamental pillars (Arkan). This evidence is rebutted by noting that the narration concerning the poorly praying man actually includes teaching him these very utterances, which is an addition that must be accepted. Alternatively, the Prophet (peace be upon him) did not teach him every obligation, as evidenced by omitting the Tashahhud and the Salam (final salutation), suggesting the instruction was limited only to what he visibly erred in.