It is narrated from Sayyiduna Abu Dharr (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Noble Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) went out during the winter season when the leaves were falling. He (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) held two branches of a tree, and its leaves began to fall. He (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) said: "O Abu Dharr!" I said: "Yes, O Messenger of Allah! I am present." He (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) said: "Indeed, when a Muslim servant performs prayer, seeking only the Face of Allah the Exalted, his sins fall away from him just as these leaves are falling from this tree."