Ali Gomaa Clarifies the Ruling for Those Who Forget the Number of Prayer Units
Dr. Ali Gomaa explains how to handle doubt in prayer, noting Imam Malik’s opinion of relying on the higher number when forgetfulness becomes frequent.
A question about forgetfulness in prayer
Dr. Ali Gomaa, former Grand Mufti of Egypt and member of Al-Azhar’s Council of Senior Scholars, received a question about a woman who sometimes forgets how many prayer units (rak‘ahs) she has performed and how she should act in such cases.
Imam Malik’s opinion in cases of frequent doubt
Dr. Gomaa explained that Imam Malik, may Allah have mercy on him, held that when forgetfulness becomes frequent and doubt occurs in every prayer, the worshipper should act based on the higher number.
The general rule regarding doubt in prayer
He clarified that the general rule in Islamic jurisprudence is to act based on the lower number when in doubt. For example, if a person is unsure whether they prayed three or four rak‘ahs, they assume three.
However, if doubt becomes constant and recurring, then Imam Malik’s view is applied, and the higher number is taken into account.
Dealing with whispers and distractions in prayer
He pointed out that whispering and doubts are from Satan and aim to disturb the worshipper and disrupt their focus during prayer.
Ways to overcome doubt and whispers
Recommended solutions include sincere intention, seeking refuge in Allah from Satan before prayer, choosing a quiet place, and focusing on the recitation during الصلاة.
He also emphasized supplication, ignoring doubts, and relying on certainty instead of suspicion.
Strengthening certainty and resisting doubts
He concluded that a Muslim should resist obsessive doubts with strong willpower, as Islamic law is based on ease and removing hardship.
What should a person do if they forget the number of rak‘ahs?
They rely on the lower number in normal cases and the higher number if doubt is frequent.
What is Imam Malik’s view on frequent doubt?
He recommends relying on the higher number when forgetfulness becomes constant.
Does doubt invalidate prayer?
No, but it should be managed and not acted upon excessively.
How can one reduce doubts during prayer?
By focusing, seeking refuge in Allah, and praying in a calm environment.
Should a prayer be repeated due to doubt?
No, Islamic rulings aim to ease worship and remove hardship.
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