Fatwa by: Former Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Ibn Baz (may Allah have mercy on him)
Question:
What is the ruling for a woman who prays without proper hijab, such as having some of her hair exposed or her legs uncovered?
Answer:
First and foremost, it is essential to understand that hijab is obligatory for women in Islam. Neglecting it or being careless about it is impermissible. If the time for prayer arrives and a woman’s hijab or covering is incomplete, the ruling depends on her specific situation.
Question:
What is the ruling for a woman who prays without proper hijab, such as having some of her hair exposed or her legs uncovered?
Answer:
First and foremost, it is essential to understand that hijab is obligatory for women in Islam. Neglecting it or being careless about it is impermissible. If the time for prayer arrives and a woman’s hijab or covering is incomplete, the ruling depends on her specific situation.
- If the lack of proper covering is due to necessity or unavoidable circumstances, the woman may pray according to her situation. In such a case, her prayer will be valid, and she will not incur any sin. Allah says in the Qur’an:
"Allah does not burden a soul beyond what it can bear."
[Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:286]
"Fear Allah as much as you are able."
[Surah At-Taghabun, 64:16] - If the lack of hijab is due to voluntary reasons, such as following societal customs or carelessness, and if only her face and hands (up to the wrists) are exposed, her prayer will be valid, but she will be sinful for not properly covering herself. This is particularly relevant if the prayer is performed in the presence of non-mahram (unrelated) men.
- However, if parts like her legs, arms, or hair are exposed during prayer, the prayer will be invalid. In this case, the woman would be guilty of two sins:
- For not observing proper hijab.
- For performing the prayer in an inappropriate state of dress.