Is Silent Mental Recitation Valid During Prayer?

In Islam, the recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha and other surahs during Salah (prayer) is a fundamental requirement. The question arises whether silently reciting them in one’s mind without moving the lips or tongue is sufficient for fulfilling this obligation.

The Ruling on Mental Recitation
For someone who is capable of speaking, reciting the Quran mentally without moving the lips or producing any sound does not count as valid recitation (qira’ah) in Salah. In Islamic jurisprudence, simply passing the verses through the mind does not fulfill the requirement of verbal recitation. This is because, in order for it to be considered qira’ah, the words must be pronounced in a way that the person praying can at least hear themselves whispering.

The Correct Method of Recitation
It is required that the person recites in a way that their lips and tongue move, and they produce a sound that is audible to themselves, even if it is in a whisper. The sound should not be loud enough to disturb others who might be nearby but must be sufficient for the person praying to hear their own voice. This approach ensures that the act of recitation is physically performed, as merely thinking the words does not fulfill the prayer’s requirement (Marghinani, Al-Hidayah, 1/55).

Reciting the Quran mentally during prayer is insufficient according to Islamic rulings. Proper recitation involves audible articulation, even if it is just a whisper. This practice helps maintain the integrity of Salah and aligns with the teachings of Islamic jurisprudence.

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