Foundations · Daily Prayer Basics
Learn about proper prostration practices and their impact on prayer validity.
7 questions · Easy · about 4 minutes
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7 questions, about 4 minutes.
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When sitting between the two prostrations or in the tashahhud, the worshipper should look at the forefinger. This helps keep the person focused in prayer.
Why
The worshipper should say takbir when going down for the prostration of recitation and when rising from it, without raising the hands. Then, after standing straight again, if they are about to bow, they should say another takbir for bowing and raise the hands.
Why
Prostration must be done on the required parts of the body. If someone keeps one of those parts off the ground for the whole prostration, then that prostration is invalid, and the prayer is invalid.
Why
Briefly lifting one of the required parts during prostration is a matter of scholarly discussion, so the safer approach is to avoid lifting any part and wait until rising from prostration.
Why
It is better for the forehead and hands to touch the ground directly when prostrating. But if there is a need, such as very hot, cold, or rough ground, it is allowed to use something attached to the person, such as a garment or turban.
Why
The text mentions scholarly difference about whether the feet should be apart or together in prostration. The view supported here is that the feet should be kept together, touching one another.
Why
Both prostrations are essential parts of the prayer. If someone deliberately omits one or both of them, they have sinned and their prayer is invalid. If someone forgets a prostration, they must do what they forgot when they remember it.
These questions are for learning and self-testing. Explanations are drawn from the sources linked on each question and are not a fatwa. For a ruling on your own circumstances, please consult a qualified scholar.
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