What are the scholars' proofs regarding the ruling on the prostration of forgetfulness for one who makes a mistake in Al-Fatiha and alters its meaning, and does he prostrate if he corrects the mistake quickly?
If a person makes a linguistic error (laḥn) in Al-Fatiha that changes the meaning, whether due to forgetfulness or ignorance, they should correct the error. According to the Hanbali and Shafi'i schools of thought, they should perform the prostration of forgetfulness ( al-sahw). However, Al-Majd Ibn Taymiyyah held the view that the prostration of forgetfulness is not obligatory in such a case.
The Hanbali school considers the prostration of forgetfulness obligatory if the linguistic error is one whose intentional commission would invalidate the prayer. Al-Majd Ibn Taymiyyah, however, believes that performing the prostration is not obligatory for a linguistic error committed due to forgetfulness or ignorance.
Obsessive doubts (waswasah) regarding the recitation of Al-Fatiha should be ignored, and one should feel reassured in their recitation. If a linguistic error occurs that changes the meaning, it should be corrected. According to the opinion of Al-Majd Ibn Taymiyyah, the prostration of forgetfulness is not obligatory in this case.
Adopting the easiest opinions for someone afflicted by obsessive doubts is not considered blameworthy pursuit of concessions; rather, it is a concession taken out of necessity.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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