Is One Salām Sufficient in Obligatory Prayer? Islamic Guidance
Source: Fatāwā Arkān-e-Islām
If an imam ends the prayer by turning his head and saying salām only to the right side, is one salām sufficient for the validity of the prayer?
① Some scholars hold that one salām is sufficient.
② Another opinion is that two salāms (to the right and to the left) are necessary.
③ A third opinion distinguishes between:
Conclusion:
It is preferable and more in line with the practice of the Prophet ﷺ to give two salāms in prayer. This applies to both imam and follower.
ھذا ما عندي والله أعلم بالصواب
(This is what I understand, and Allah knows best what is correct.)
Source: Fatāwā Arkān-e-Islām
The Question
If an imam ends the prayer by turning his head and saying salām only to the right side, is one salām sufficient for the validity of the prayer?
Scholarly Opinions
① Some scholars hold that one salām is sufficient.
② Another opinion is that two salāms (to the right and to the left) are necessary.
③ A third opinion distinguishes between:
- Nafl (voluntary) prayer: One salām is sufficient.
- Farḍ (obligatory) prayer: Two salāms are required.
Precaution and the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ
- The more cautious practice is to offer two salāms.
- The Prophet ﷺ is most often reported to have ended prayer with two salāms.
- This way:
◈ One acts with precaution.
◈ There is also more remembrance of Allah.
Regarding the Imam and Follower
- If the imam ends with one salām and the follower believes one salām is insufficient:
◈ The follower should still offer salām to both sides.
◈ There is no prohibition in doing so. - If the imam offers two salāms but the follower believes one is enough:
◈ The follower should still follow the imam and give salām on both sides.
Conclusion:
It is preferable and more in line with the practice of the Prophet ﷺ to give two salāms in prayer. This applies to both imam and follower.
ھذا ما عندي والله أعلم بالصواب
(This is what I understand, and Allah knows best what is correct.)
