What is the correct intention for leading people in Tarawih prayer, and how can one achieve sincerity and overcome the whispers of showing off?
A Muslim must be mindful of the devil's insidious whisperings, for not every feeling of showing off is actual showing off. Improving one's voice and perfecting recitation during prayer is desirable if the intention is to achieve a state of humility (khushu') or to affect people, as stated by the Prophet, peace be upon him: "He is not one of us who does not chant the Quran," and "Adorn the Quran with your voices." However, if the intention is to seek people's praise, then it is considered showing off. The Imam must continue to improve his voice while asking Allah for sincerity and fighting the devil's whisperings, for improving one's voice in recitation is one of the greatest means to ponder and understand the meaning.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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