Is a father considered a disbeliever for his negligence in prayer, and would the daughter bestow half of her good deeds upon him?
A group of scholars has permitted dedicating the reward of good deeds to a Muslim, whether living or deceased. This is the madhhab of the Hanbalis and Hanafis, and some Malikis and Shafi'is, provided that the recipient is not a disbeliever. This is based on the Almighty's saying: "It is not for the Prophet and those who have believed to ask forgiveness for the polytheists, even if they were relatives, after it has become clear to them that they are companions of Hellfire." Scholars have differed regarding the ruling on one who abandons prayer. Some are of the view that he is a disbeliever, a major disbelief that expels one from the fold of Islam, while others — and they are the majority — are of the view that his disbelief does not expel him from the fold of Islam. Accordingly, if your father's negligence in prayer means he abandoned it, then according to the view of the majority, you may supplicate for him, give charity on his behalf, and dedicate good deeds to him.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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