What is the ruling on one who is unable to complete the recitation of Al-Fatiha behind the Imam due to the latter's speed in the third and fourth rak'ahs?
Reciting Al-Fatihah is a pillar of prayer for the Imam and the person praying alone, and for the follower during the Imam's pauses. This combines the evidence that obligates it for every worshiper with the evidence that commands listening attentively to the Imam. If the Imam recites at a normal speed that does not distort the letters, you can ask him to slow down. If he continues at his speed and you are unable to complete Al-Fatihah, your prayer is still valid, as many jurists do not consider its recitation obligatory for the follower in a loud prayer, but rather consider it only recommended.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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