Fatwa ID: 04429
Answered by: Alimah Sumeyye Sofu
Question:
When we are praying as a follower and the Imam is reciting in a loud voice (like salatul maghrib, fajr or isha) what are we supposed to do? Do we also recite in a low voice or should we keep quiet and listen to the Imam's recitation?
بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمنِ الرَّحِيْم
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
Answer:
You should keep silent and listen to the Imam. Do not recite anything.[1]
Allah (SWT) says in the Holy Qur'an: “When the Qur’ān is recited, listen to it and be silent, so that you may be blessed.” (Surah Al-A'raf 204)
According to the Hanafi Fiqh, the follower remains silent in all five salaah when it is performed behind an Imam.
It was narrated that Jabir (r.a) said: "The Messenger of Allah (saw) said: 'Whoever has an Imam, the recitation of the Imam is his recitation." [2]
It is also narrated that Ibn Ukaimah (r.a) said: “I heard Abu Hurairah say:” The Prophet (saw) led his companions in prayer, we think it was the Subh. He said:” Did anyone among you recite?” A man said: “I did.” He said: “I was saying to myself, what is wrong with me that someone is fighting to wrest the Quran from me?” [3]
For more information, please check the following website:
https://daruliftabirmingham.co.uk/reciting-surah-fatiha-behind-the-imam/
Written by Alimah Sumeyye Sofu
Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah
Darul Ifta Birmingham
