Should one abandon the re-recitation of Surat Al-Fatihah and the takbirat al-ihram when in doubt about them due to waswasah (obsessive whispering), and suffice with the prostration of forgetfulness (sujud al-sahw)? Or should one act upon the predominant assumption, even though they are pillars of the prayer? And how should the intention (niyyah) be made in prayer?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
Satanic whispers (waswasah) are among the most dangerous ailments that corrupt one's religion and worldly life. Their best cure is to ignore them. Do not pay attention to these whispers, and according to the most authoritative opinion, do not perform the prostration of forgetfulness ( al-sahw); rather, cast away doubts. As for the intention (), it is a simple matter: face the Qiblah, bring the prayer to mind with your heart, then say the opening takbir (takbirat al-) without hesitation, and strive against the whispers.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/138938
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 138938
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy