Disliked Acts in Prayer
The Chapter of Prayer
Disliked Acts in Prayer
After learning about:
The obligatory acts of prayer
Its duties
Its Sunnahs
Its invalidators
We now come to the disliked acts in prayer,
which are matters that do not invalidate the prayer,
but reduce its reward and affect the worshipper’s humility.
First: What Are Disliked Acts in Prayer?
Disliked acts in prayer are: Actions or postures that are not recommended during prayer.
If a person performs them:
The prayer remains valid
But the reward is reduced
And the level of humility is affected
Second: The Main Disliked Acts in Prayer
1) Turning Without Need
When the worshipper turns:
With the head
Or with the eyes
Without a valid reason,
it reduces humility and focus.
2) Unnecessary Movements
Such as:
Playing with clothing
Moving the hands repeatedly without need
Looking at a watch or phone
Excessive or pointless movement weakens concentration.
3) Interlocking the Fingers
Placing the fingers into each other during prayer
is disliked because it contradicts calmness and stillness.
4) Placing the Hands on the Hips
Standing in prayer with the hands on the hips
is disliked and was prohibited.
5) Praying While Resisting the Call of Nature
This includes:
Holding urine
Holding stool
This prevents humility and distracts the heart.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“There is no prayer in the presence of food, nor while one is resisting the call of nature.”
6) Raising the Gaze Toward the Sky
During prayer,
this is strongly discouraged.
7) Spreading the Forearms on the Ground in Prostration
Like the way a dog stretches its forearms,
which is contrary to the Prophet’s guidance.
8) Praying in the Presence of Desired Food
If food is present
and the person’s heart is attached to it,
it is better to eat first and then pray.
Third: Why Are Disliked Acts Important to Avoid?
Because prayer is not just physical movements.
It is:
Humility
Presence of heart
Connection with Allah
Disliked acts:
Weaken this connection
Turn prayer into a habit without spirit
Common Questions
Do disliked acts invalidate the prayer?
No.
The prayer remains valid, but the reward is reduced.
Do disliked acts require Sujood As-Sahw?
No.
They are not compensated by prostration of forgetfulness.
Does movement invalidate the prayer?
Minor movement for a need does not invalidate it,
but excessive or unnecessary movement is disliked.
Summary: Disliked Acts in Prayer
They do not invalidate the prayer
But they reduce the reward
And affect humility
Avoiding them makes the prayer more complete
Madrasat Al-Quran
We teach you how to perform a complete prayer
Not only valid, but full of humility
Because perfection in prayer leads to a purified heart