What should a latecomer do in the prostration of forgetfulness (sujood as-sahw) if the Imam makes a mistake and the latecomer still has uncompleted rak'ahs, whether the prostration is before or after the salutation?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
If the Imam performs the prostration of forgetfulness ( al-sahw) before the salutation, then the congregant (ma'mum) — even if he is late (masbuq) — must prostrate with him, based on the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Indeed, the Imam is appointed to be followed, so do not differ from him." However, if the Imam performs the prostration of forgetfulness after the salutation and the congregant is late, then scholars have differed on this matter.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/45193
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 45193
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- Read the full answer on Ftawy