✍️ Referenced from: Fatawa ‘Ulama-e-Hadith, Kitab al-Salah, Vol. 1, p. 197
❖ Question
Can an Imam lead the prayer while wearing a half-sleeved shirt?
❖ Answer
Yes, it is permissible for an Imam to lead the prayer in a half-sleeved shirt, provided that his shoulders are covered.
❖ Supporting Hadith
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“None of you should pray in a single garment that does not cover his shoulders.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)
This Hadith highlights the importance of covering the shoulders during prayer. Therefore, if the half-sleeved shirt adequately covers the shoulders, the prayer is valid, and the Imam can lead while wearing it.
Wallahu A‘lam — And Allah knows best.
(Issued: May 10, 1940 – Fatawa Sanaiyyah, Vol. 1, p. 299)
