Is it Obligatory for Women to Cover Their Hands and Feet During Prayer?
When it comes to Islamic prayer practices, many questions arise. And one common query is whether women must cover their Hands and Feet in Prayer. Or if they have the option to leave them uncovered. This is especially relevant when no strangers are present. Or when women pray among women.
Answer: In the context of prayer, women may choose to leave their hands uncovered. When they are not in the presence of strangers. However, concerning the feet, there are differing opinions. While some scholars permit women to leave their feet uncovered. The majority deems it necessary for women to cover them.
This perspective aligns with a narration from Hazrat Umm Salmi Aksinya. Who was asked about a woman who prayed while wearing only a veil and a shirt. She responded that if the shirt covers the upper part of the feet. Then it is not permissible to pray in such a case.
Covering the feet is primarily a precautionary measure. And it is advisable to do so to ensure the validity of one’s prayer. As for the palms, there is more flexibility. Women have the option to cover their palms or leave them open during prayer. Some scholars recommend covering them. While others consider it acceptable to keep them uncovered.
Can Women Pray in Gloves?
Another frequently asked question regarding women’s prayer attire is whether it is permissible for women to pray while wearing gloves.
Answer: Yes, it is permissible for women to pray while wearing gloves. Provided that they are not in the presence of strangers during the prayer. In such a case, women are required to cover their entire bodies, except for their face. If a woman wishes to cover her hands with gloves and also add an additional layer, such as a blanket, there is no objection to this practice.
It is important to note that the rules regarding prayer attire for men and women differ. While women have the flexibility to cover their hands and other body parts during prayer, men are generally encouraged to pray with their hands and face directly on the ground without any hindrance.
How Far Should You Raise Your Hands in Prayer?
The issue of how high to raise one’s hands during prayer, specifically during the Takbeer (the phrase “Allahu Akbar”), is a common point of inquiry.
Answer: During Takbeer Awla (the initial Takbeer), when moving into Ruku (bowing), and when rising from Ruku, it is recommended to raise one’s hands up to the level of the shoulders or ears. This practice is derived from the teachings and actions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Additionally, during the third rak’ah of prayers like Zuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha, it is recommended to raise one’s hands (known as Rifa-ul-Adeen) while standing after the first Tashahhud. This practice is supported by the words and actions of the Prophet.
How Should You Position Your Hands During Prayer?
A commonly asked question pertains to the placement of hands before and after bowing (Ruku) in Salah.
Answer: The Sunnah (recommended practice) is to keep one’s hands in a specific position during prayer. This position involves placing the right hand over the left hand on the chest. This placement is observed both before and after Ruku, when standing in the prayer.
This practice is supported by authentic Hadith, including one narrated by Wail bin Hajar bin Ala, who witnessed the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) placing his right hand over his left hand during prayer. Imam Bukhari also narrates this practice, emphasizing the importance of binding the right hand to the left elbow while standing in prayer.
Which Body Part Should Touch the Ground First When Going into Sajdah?
During Sajdah (prostration) in prayer, there is a common question about whether the knees or hands should touch the ground first.
Answer: When transitioning into Sajdah, it is recommended to place the knees on the ground first, followed by the hands and then the face. This order is based on authentic Hadith, and it is considered the correct way to enter into Sajdah.
Question: Dealing with Doubts in Prayer
Many individuals experience doubts during prayer, particularly concerning the number of rak’ahs (units of prayer) performed. Doubts can be unsettling, and it’s important to know how to address them.
Answer: If doubts arise during prayer regarding the number of rak’ahs, it is advisable to combat these doubts and seek refuge in Allah by reciting the following supplication:
“Say: I seek refuge in the Lord of the people, I seek refuge in the Lord of the people (and) I seek refuge in the God of the people. Evil is the backslider (Satan) who whispers.”
Additionally, if you are uncertain about the number of rak’ahs you have prayed, count them as the lower number to err on the side of caution. Then, complete the prayer and perform two prostrations of forgetfulness (Sujood as-Sahw) before concluding the prayer. This is in accordance with the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) for individuals prone to doubts in prayer.
Conclusion: Addressing common questions and concerns related to prayer practices helps ensure that one’s Salah is performed correctly and in accordance with Islamic teachings. Always seek guidance from knowledgeable scholars and religious authorities when in doubt about specific prayer-related issues.
More Fact: Common Questions on Salah