Is it obligatory to look at the Imam when he bows and prostrates in order to follow his actions, or is following him based on his words and relying on his pronouncement of "Allahu Akbar" after he finishes saying it, while directing one's gaze towards the place of prostration?

Scholars have differed on the placement of a worshipper's gaze during prayer. The majority opinion is that one should look at the place of prostration, as this is closer to humility (khushu') and the Sunnah.

However, the Malikis hold that the worshipper should look towards the Qibla or straight ahead. Some of them specified that the congregant (ma'mum) should look at his Imam, citing the hadith of Khabbab (may Allah be pleased with him) regarding the movement of the Prophet's beard (peace be upon him). This hadith implies the permissibility of looking at the Imam to observe and follow him.

Ibn Rajab, however, is of the view that Khabbab's hadith is specific to the Prophet (peace be upon him) for discerning his actions, whereas with others, it is better to look at the place of prostration. Others, however, believe that looking at the Imam falls under the category of following him.

The matter is broad. For those who look at the place of prostration, it is better, and the Imam's transitions can be known through the takbir. For those who look at the Imam, there is no harm, provided they do not turn their head, as turning one's head is disliked (makruh). A distinction can be made between the Imam and one praying alone, for whom it is recommended to look at the place of prostration, while the congregant looks at it except when there is a need to observe his Imam.