Is it prescribed to say "Subhan Allah" (Tasbih) when passing by verses of glorification during prayer, whether praying alone or behind an Imam, such as "Glorify with the praise of your Lord" or "Glorify the name of your Lord, the Most High"?
Scholars differed on the issue of seeking refuge at verses of punishment and asking at verses of mercy during prayer. The Shafi'is and the majority of the Salaf held that it is recommended for every worshiper (imam, follower, or praying alone) in both obligatory and supererogatory prayers, citing the action of the Prophet (peace be upon him) as evidence. Abu Hanifa, on the other hand, disliked it. Others adopted a detailed view, recommending it in supererogatory prayers but not in obligatory ones.
The esteemed scholar Ibn Uthaymeen leaned towards its recommendation specifically in supererogatory prayers, especially night prayers, due to its being reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him) and because it leads to deeper contemplation and greater presence of heart. He considered it permissible in obligatory prayers but not sunnah (recommended), as no action of the Prophet (peace be upon him) in obligatory prayers regarding this was transmitted. It should be noted that a follower should not do it if it leads to not listening attentively to the imam.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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