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342. Prohibition of facing the Graves during Salat (Prayer)
Chapter 342
Prohibition of facing the Graves during Salat (Prayer)
- Abu Marthad Kannaz bin Husain (May Allah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) saying: “Do not offer Salat (prayer) facing the graves and do not sit on them.”
[Muslim].
Commentary:
- It is prohibited to face the graves while offering Salat. Its reason seems to be that it creates a resemblance to polytheists. Moreover, it has a trace of reverence for someone other than Allah, which takes one towards Shirk.
- It is forbidden for Muslims to sit on the graves because it is disrespect of man whom Allah has honoured.
Therefore Muslims should avoid both practices mentioned above. Imam An-Nawawi said: Our companions (the scholars) said that it is Makruh (undesirable) to plaster the grave; while sitting, leaning against it or resting on it is Haram (forbidden).
Reference:
Riyadh ul Saliheen