Ruling on a Person Claiming to Be Ahl al-Ḥadīth Who Is Negligent in Prayer
Source: Aḥkām wa Masāʾil – Bāb al-Ṣalāh, Vol. 1, p. 159
Question:
A man keeps a full beard but is negligent in regular prayers. He often joins the congregation late, sometimes after missing one, two, or even three rakʿāt. He also comes late for the Friday khuṭbah and causes inconvenience to the imāms or khuṭabāʾ who come to the mosque. However, he is known to be hospitable and trustworthy.
Can such a person be called “Ahl al-Ḥadīth”?
Can he hold an important position in an Ahl al-Ḥadīth mosque?
Can he lead the congregation in prayer?
Answer:
Al-ḥamdu lillāh, waṣ-ṣalātu wa-s-salāmu ʿalā Rasūlillāh, ammā baʿd!
✿ Yes, such a person may still be called “Ahl al-Ḥadīth.”
✿ He may occasionally lead the congregation in prayer.
✿ However, regarding whether he can hold or retain an important position in the mosque, this matter should be decided by mutual consultation among the members of the mosque.
Hādhā mā ʿindī, wallāhu aʿlam bi-ṣ-ṣawāb.
