Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta released a series of fatwas addressing frequently asked questions about prayer and ablution, offering detailed explanations supported by Qur’anic and prophetic evidence.
Why Is Dhuhr Prayer Silent Even in Congregation?
Sheikh Mahmoud Shalaby, secretary of fatwas at Dar Al-Ifta, explained that the silent recitation in Dhuhr is a devotional matter ordained by Allah, not subject to human reasoning. The Prophet ﷺ performed it silently, and Muslims are instructed to follow his example: “Pray as you have seen me pray.”
Scholars said that silent recitation suits daytime prayers like Dhuhr and Asr because they occur during work hours when people are preoccupied, allowing better focus and inner reflection, unlike night prayers when the atmosphere is quieter and conducive to listening.
How to Honor a Deceased Wife and the Ruling on Charity for Her?
Dar Al-Ifta affirmed that showing kindness and loyalty to one’s wife after her death is commendable, and includes praying for her, mentioning her kindly, helping her relatives, and giving charity in her name. The Prophet ﷺ used to honor Lady Khadijah’s memory by visiting her friends and praying for her.
Citing the hadith: “When a person dies, his deeds cease except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for him” (Muslim), the fatwa confirmed that charitable acts reach and benefit the deceased, as agreed upon by all major scholars.
Ruling on Wiping the Neck During Wudu
According to Grand Mufti Dr. Nazir Ayad, wiping the neck during ablution is a matter of scholarly disagreement; one who does it with good intention is rewarded, and one who omits it is not at fault, since it’s not among the obligatory or emphasized Sunnah acts.
He urged Muslims to avoid disputes over such minor differences, emphasizing that “there should be no condemnation in matters of scholarly disagreement.”
Speaking During Wudu
Dar Al-Ifta stated that speaking unnecessarily during ablution is discouraged, as it distracts from the spiritual focus of the act, though it is not sinful. Silence and remembrance of Allah are recommended for greater devotion.
Washing the Face with Kohl
The fatwa concluded that the entire face must be washed during ablution, including the eyelids, eyebrows, and lashes, since the Qur’an commands believers to “wash your faces” [Al-Ma’idah: 6]. Women wearing kohl must ensure that water reaches the skin and lashes for wudu to be valid.
Through these rulings, Dar Al-Ifta reaffirmed Islam’s balance between devotion, knowledge, and intention, guiding believers to follow the Prophet’s example in purity and worship.
