Is reciting the Basmala at the beginning of Al-Fatiha obligatory in prayer? What is the ruling on interrupting the recitation of Al-Fatiha when the Imam bows? And what should the congregant do if he has not completed the glorifications of bowing or prostration before the Imam moves to the next pillar? And is it obligatory to grasp the knees in bowing, or is it sufficient to place the hands on them, and what is the ruling on lifting the hands from the knees during bowing and moving to the next pillar without returning them? And is it sufficient to move the lips without uttering the letters in silent recitation?

The answer to the questions is summarized as follows:

1. Scholars have differed on whether the Basmala is a verse of every surah, or only of Al-Fatiha, or an independent verse for separating surahs. However, they have agreed that it is part of a verse in Surat An-Naml. 2. If the Imam bows before the congregant completes Al-Fatiha, the preferred action is to complete it then bow. However, there is no sin upon one who follows him and bows before completing it. 3. If the Imam rises from bowing and the congregant has not recited the tasbeeh, he can recite its shortest form and catch up with the Imam. One should not lag behind the Imam by prolonging the tasbeeh. 4. The Sunnah for placing the hands during bowing is to place the right hand on the right knee and the left hand on the left knee, with the hands firmly placed, fingers spread apart, and elbows separated from the sides. This is recommended, not obligatory. It is sufficient to bend such that the hands can touch the knees. 5. Most scholars believe that recitation is not valid unless the reciter hears himself. However, some have said that merely moving the tongue is sufficient. One who suffers from misgivings (waswas) can adopt the easier opinion. It is advised not to indulge in misgivings and to cut them off by seeking refuge (in Allah) and disregarding them.