The first question of Fatwa no. 14283 Q 1: It is an act of Sunnah (acts, sayings or approvals of the Prophet) to look at the place of Sujud (prostration) during Salah (Prayer). But, when I offer Salah behind an Imam (the one who leads congregational Prayer) and close my eyes, I feel more Khushu` (the heart being submissively attuned to the act of worship) and reverence. (Part No. 5; Page No. 379) Closing my eyes helps me ponder the meanings of the Ayahs (Quranic verses) which the Imam recites, the relation between these Ayahs and the universe, and what it contains of miracles that assure the Power and Might of Allah. But when I open my eyes to look at the place of Sujud as the Prophet (peace be upon him) ordered us to do, I become afflicted with Waswasah (Insinuating or obsessive thoughts instigated by Satan). What is the ruling on this? A: During Salah, it is prescribed that the Muslim should look at the place of Sujud and not close their eyes; for they are engaged in an act of worship in which they speak privately to their Lord and ask Him His Mercy. Imam Muslim and others related that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: “Let the people who lift their sights towards heaven during Salah desist, or else their sights will be taken away.” Also, Al-Bukhari and Muslim narrated that The Prophet (peace be upon him) offered Salah wearing a Khamisa (a marked woolen garment) with marks on it. Thereupon, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The marks on it diverted my attention, take this (Khamisa) to Abu Jahm and bring an Inbijaniyah (unmarked garment) (from him).” If it was permissible for a person to close their eyes, the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) would have closed his eyes to avoid being occupied by the marks of the garment. Therefore, you should look at the place of Sujud and try to ponder the recitation and supplications, and to suppress the insinuations of Satan. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions. The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta Member Deputy Chairman Chairman `Abdullah ibn Ghudayyan `Abdul-Razzaq `Afify `Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz
Posted on: Sun, 25 Jan 2015 07:45:28 +0000