«When a man purifies himself, then proceeds to the mosque, attending to the prayer, his scribe (or two scribes) records for him ten good deeds for every step he takes towards the mosque. And the one who sits awaiting the prayer is like one in constant devotion (Qānit) and is recorded among those performing prayer from the moment he leaves his house until he returns.»
Reported by Aḥmad (no. 17440), Ibn Khuzaymah (no. 1492), and al-Ḥākim in al-Mustadrak (no. 766), from the narration of ʿUqbah ibn ʿĀmir — may Allah be pleased with him.
Authenticated in Ṣaḥīḥ al-Jāmiʿ (no. 434) and Ṣaḥīḥ al-Targhīb wa al-Tarhīb (no. 298).
Brief Explanation of the Hadith
Among the greatest acts of devotion by which one draws near to Allah, the Exalted, is performing the prayer in congregation at the mosque. It is a great rite, and the texts have indicated its virtue and its effect in raising ranks and expiating sins. The Prophet — may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him — clarified that whoever goes out to the mosque in a state of purification, intending the prayer, Allah records for him with every step he takes a multiplied reward—ten good deeds.
Indeed, whoever comes to the mosque before the iqāmah (call to commence prayer) and sits awaiting it—whether occupied with reciting Qurān, engaging in dhikr (remembrance of Allah), or performing supererogatory prayers—will receive the reward of one who is praying. In fact, he is recorded among those performing prayer from the moment he leaves his house until he returns to it. This exemplifies the perfection of Allah Almighty's grace. He has encouraged His servants towards acts of obedience, multiplied their good deeds, and made the act of walking to prayer, awaiting it in the mosque, and returning from it an act of worship through which abundant reward is attained.
The ḥadīth encourages praying in the mosque and coming early to it, and that each step taken toward the mosque multiplies one’s good deeds and erases sins, and that the one waiting for the prayer shares the same reward as the one actually praying. It also highlights the vastness of Allah’s grace and mercy toward those who obey Him.