Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta responded to a frequently asked question about whether it is permissible to slightly raise one’s voice during silent prayers to prevent distraction and maintain focus.
Sheikh Ahmed Wissam, Secretary of Fatwa, clarified that it is permissible for a worshipper to raise their voice slightly in silent prayers if it helps them stay attentive, emphasizing that this does not contradict the Sunnah.
Sheikh Ahmed Mamdouh further explained that obligatory prayers are divided into:
Silent prayers: Dhuhr and Asr.
Audible prayers: Fajr, Maghrib, and Isha.
He noted that the purpose of silent prayer is concentration and humility, and that the permissible level of voice is such that a person hears themselves only. If someone raises their voice intentionally in a silent prayer, the prayer remains valid, but it is considered less preferable.
Dar Al-Ifta also addressed another related question, with Sheikh Awaida Othman clarifying that raising the hands during the opening Takbir is a Sunnah, not an obligation. He referred to the narration of Ibn Umar describing how the Prophet ﷺ would raise his hands to the level of his ears during Takbir.
Othman emphasized that omitting this act does not invalidate the prayer, but performing it increases the reward and follows the Prophet’s practice.
