Is it permissible to adopt the view of one who does not deem it obligatory for the worshipper to recite the Fatihah behind the Imam in audible and silent prayers, in order to overcome whispers and confusion, and does not listening to the Imam during his recitation invalidate the prayer?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
The Hanbali school of thought holds that the recitation of Al-Fatiha is not obligatory for the congregant (ma'mum), neither in silent nor in audible prayers. It is, however, recommended to recite it in silent prayers or during the imam's pauses. The evidence for this is the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Whoever has an imam, then the imam's recitation is a recitation for him." Consequently, the prayer of the congregant is not invalidated by not reciting Al-Fatiha, and this is permissible, especially for those suffering from obsessive doubts ().
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/131125
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