Ruling on Reflections from Glass in the Mosque and Its Impact on Salah
❖ Question:
What is the Islamic ruling regarding the installation of glass in a mosque, and the appearance of reflections during prayer?
❖ Answer by Shaykh Abdul Wakeel Nasir ḥafiẓahullāh
① Reflections in Glass Panels:
At times, glass panels are installed in front of the prayer area in mosques, which reflect the image of the praying individual.
Standing deliberately in front of such glass to observe one's reflection, adjust one's hair, or continually look into it during prayer contradicts the essence of humility and concentration (khushūʿ).
② Disturbance in Khushūʿ:
Maintaining khushūʿ (humility and focus) in prayer is of utmost importance. Looking at one's reflection in the glass disrupts this essential element.
The Prophet ﷺ once changed a prayer mat that was causing distraction, illustrating the importance of undisturbed focus in prayer.
✔ Emphasis on Avoiding Reflective Glass:
Mosques should avoid installing glass that displays the reflection of the worshippers.
If such glass is already installed, curtains should be hung in front of it and drawn during prayer times to prevent reflections from being visible.
✔ Validity of the Prayer:
While no ruling is being issued declaring someone’s prayer as invalid due to this matter, it is clearly established that preserving khushūʿ is a requirement.
Viewing one’s reflection during prayer opposes this requirement.
❝الَّذِيۡنَ هُمۡ فِىۡ صَلَاتِهِمۡ خَاشِعُوۡنَ❞
“(The believers) are those who show humility in their prayers.”
(Sūrat al-Mu’minūn: 2)
Installing glass in mosques in such a way that reflects the image of the worshipper is discouraged.
Efforts should be made to maintain the sanctity and concentration of the prayer environment by avoiding such distractions.
❖ Question:
What is the Islamic ruling regarding the installation of glass in a mosque, and the appearance of reflections during prayer?
❖ Answer by Shaykh Abdul Wakeel Nasir ḥafiẓahullāh
◈ Issues Related to the Use of Glass in Mosques
① Reflections in Glass Panels:
At times, glass panels are installed in front of the prayer area in mosques, which reflect the image of the praying individual.
Standing deliberately in front of such glass to observe one's reflection, adjust one's hair, or continually look into it during prayer contradicts the essence of humility and concentration (khushūʿ).
② Disturbance in Khushūʿ:
Maintaining khushūʿ (humility and focus) in prayer is of utmost importance. Looking at one's reflection in the glass disrupts this essential element.
The Prophet ﷺ once changed a prayer mat that was causing distraction, illustrating the importance of undisturbed focus in prayer.
◈ Ruling and Practical Advice
✔ Emphasis on Avoiding Reflective Glass:
Mosques should avoid installing glass that displays the reflection of the worshippers.
If such glass is already installed, curtains should be hung in front of it and drawn during prayer times to prevent reflections from being visible.
✔ Validity of the Prayer:
While no ruling is being issued declaring someone’s prayer as invalid due to this matter, it is clearly established that preserving khushūʿ is a requirement.
Viewing one’s reflection during prayer opposes this requirement.
◈ Evidence from the Qur’an:
❝الَّذِيۡنَ هُمۡ فِىۡ صَلَاتِهِمۡ خَاشِعُوۡنَ❞
“(The believers) are those who show humility in their prayers.”
(Sūrat al-Mu’minūn: 2)
✿ Conclusion:
Installing glass in mosques in such a way that reflects the image of the worshipper is discouraged.Efforts should be made to maintain the sanctity and concentration of the prayer environment by avoiding such distractions.
