What is the ruling on praying behind an Imam who turns his head during prayer and burps?
The jurists have stipulated the dislike (karahah) of burping unless it is overwhelming, and the dislike of turning one's head during prayer. However, this is neither forbidden (haram) nor does it invalidate the prayer. The jurists from the four schools of thought have agreed that prayer is not invalidated by turning one's head unless the worshipper turns their entire body away from the Qibla. The evidence for its dislike is what Al-Bukhari narrated from Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said about turning during prayer: "It is a snatching that Satan snatches from a servant's prayer." Based on this, the Imam's prayer is valid, and whoever's prayer is valid for himself, the prayer of the people behind him is also valid.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/37657