How is the Qur’an to be recited in a silent prayer when one misses rak'ahs with the Imam? Is the recitation limited to Al-Fatihah in all rak'ahs, and what is to be recited when one misses a rak'ah in a silent prayer? In a loud prayer, should one say "Allahu Akbar" then immediately recite Al-Fatihah if the worshiper arrives while the Imam is reciting the surah that follows Al-Fatihah?

If someone misses two rak'ahs of a three- or four-rak'ah prayer, they should make up what they missed after the Imam's salutation. In these rak'ahs, they should recite Al-Fatihah silently, and a surah (definition) as well, according to most scholars. The preponderant opinion is that what one misses with the Imam is considered the beginning of their prayer, and Al-Fatihah is a pillar that must be recited by the Imam, the one praying alone, and the follower. If you enter while the Imam is reciting a surah, then recite Al-Fatihah.