Does temporarily ceasing to pray due to a severe psychological condition, with the intention of returning to it after treatment, constitute apostasy from Islam?
Abandoning prayer is one of the gravest sins. Muslims have unanimously agreed that abandoning even one prayer is a greater sin than fornication, theft, consuming alcohol, or taking a life; indeed, some scholars consider it an act of disbelief. Prayer is not a cause for depression; rather, it is one of the greatest sources of comfort and tranquility. It is a powerful aid in warding off illnesses and evils, as Allah Almighty says: "And seek help through patience and prayer." Whenever the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, was distressed by a matter, he would pray, and he used to say to Bilal, "O Bilal, establish the prayer; bring us comfort with it." Therefore, one must safeguard prayer, for it is a source of comfort, peace of mind, and tranquility of heart.
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Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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