What is the ruling on prostrating on thick carpet without pressing down or bearing weight? Is merely touching the nose sufficient, or must one press firmly? And does lifting the forehead off the ground and then placing it back down after the initial firm placement have any effect?

The stability of the forehead on the surface of prostration is a condition for prostration. It is obligatory to press down on it until the material beneath it is compressed, such as thick carpets, sponges, and fluffed wool. Mere touching is not sufficient, for the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "I have been commanded to prostrate on seven bones," and Anas, may Allah be pleased with him, said: "We used to pray with the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, in intense heat, and if one of us could not enable his forehead to touch the ground, he would spread his garment and prostrate on it." As for lifting the forehead and then placing it down again, it should not be done without need, but it does not harm if there is a need, provided it is quickly returned. Prostration must be performed on seven limbs, and it is not permissible to lift any of them except out of need or necessity, and then they must be quickly returned.