Tirmidhi

English Commentary:
1:
There are two types of Iq’a (sitting posture):

The first type is that both buttocks are touching the ground, both thighs are upright, and both hands are placed on the ground. This is the “Iq’a of a dog,” and this is the Iq’a that has been prohibited.

The second type is that, between the two prostrations, one sits by raising the feet and placing the buttocks on both heels. This form is mentioned in the hadith of Ibn Abbas, which has been recorded by Muslim and Abu Dawud as well. This form is permissible.

Some have considered even this to be abrogated, saying that perhaps Ibn Abbas was unaware of the abrogation. However, this statement is not correct, because it is possible to reconcile between the two hadiths.

The correct view is that this form of Iq’a is permissible, and the best (afdal) is to sit on the buttocks, because this was the practice of the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) most of the time. The occasions when he performed Iq’a were either due to some excuse or to demonstrate its permissibility.

2:
Due to Harith al-A’war, this narration is weak, but other hadiths in this chapter are authentic, which the author has mentioned under “Wa fi al-bab.”

Note:
(In the chain of narration, Harith al-A’war is extremely weak.)