Must the toes remain on the ground throughout the prayer, and what is the ruling if the toes are accidentally lifted from the ground while reciting Al-Fatiha?

Placing the toes on the ground is only obligatory during prostration (sujud). If a worshiper lifts them during standing (qiyam) or bowing (ruku'), their prayer is valid. Scholars have explicitly stated the validity of the prayer of one who lifts one of their feet. However, it is disliked to lift the toes without need, as it is considered a frivolous act that detracts from devotion (khushu'). Furthermore, part of perfectly facing the Qiblah is to direct the toes towards it, as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) did in his prostration, and this is a fundamental principle observed in prayer when possible.