Should a Muslim perform the prostration of forgetfulness (sujud al-sahw) in every prayer if they briefly lose focus during it?
Source: FtawySummarized from the full answer at Ftawy · imported Sep 2, 2026
Absentmindedness and wandering thoughts during prayer do not necessitate the prostration of forgetfulness ( al-sahw) and are not among its causes; the prayers remain valid.
To overcome whisperings (waswas):
1. Seek refuge in Allah and His protection from Satan, and ponder the meanings of the Quran. 2. Remember that you are standing before Allah and conversing with Him. 3. If whisperings become frequent, spit lightly to your left three times and seek refuge in Allah from Satan three times. 4. Maintain devotion and presence of heart in prayer, for it is the essence and spirit of prayer.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · imported
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/11781
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- Source platform
- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 11781
- Imported
- Translation status
- Source text, unreviewed
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