Back to search

Is the command to prostrate on seven bones for obligation?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

Scholars have differed regarding whether prostrating on the seven limbs (hands, knees, feet, forehead) is obligatory or recommended, with the nose being a separate point of contention. Some scholars are of the opinion that prostrating on them is obligatory, citing the hadith: "I have been commanded to prostrate on seven bones (limbs): the hands, the knees, the feet, and the forehead." Others, however, are of the opinion that prostrating is not obligatory except on the forehead, due to the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "(My) face prostrated," and because one who prostrates with their face is called a prostrator. Regarding the ruling on prostrating on the nose, it is narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) did not mention it among the seven limbs, and it is reported that he prostrated on the upper part of his forehead, where the hairline begins.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

Read the full answer on Ftawy