What is Prostration of Forgetfulness?
Prostration, defined in linguistic terms, refers to the act of placing one’s forehead on the ground. On the other hand, forgetfulness pertains to neglecting or being unconsciously distracted from something. Ibn Al-Athir – may God have mercy on him – described the prostration of forgetfulness as the omission of an action unawares. The term “prostration of forgetfulness” is coined to indicate that this act is linked to the reason behind it, specifically a prostration done because of forgetfulness. Scholars have elucidated that this prostration consists of two additional prostrations performed by the worshiper to compensate for an inadvertent error in prayer—whether by adding or omitting something intentionally or unintentionally. Some scholars opine that prostration of forgetfulness is obligatory when certain circumstances arise. Their assertion is supported by several evidences, one of which is a narration by Abdullah ibn Malik ibn Buhainah – may God be pleased with him – stating: (The Messenger of God, peace be upon him, prayed two units of one of the prayers, then stood without sitting down. The people stood with him. After he finished his prayer and we saw him recite the final salutation, he said ‘Allahu Akbar’ before the tasleem, then he prostrated twice while sitting, and then he concluded with tasleem).
Reasons for Prostration of Forgetfulness
Scholars have identified three circumstances that necessitate the prostration of forgetfulness: addition, omission, and doubt. If the worshiper deliberately adds to or omits any of the essential components or obligations of the prayer, their prayer becomes invalid according to the consensus of scholars. However, if a sunnah (non-mandatory practice) is omitted unintentionally, some scholars suggest that the prostration of forgetfulness is encouraged. The following details elaborate on each case:
If One Adds to the Prayer Unintentionally
Scholars classify unintentional additions to prayer into two categories:
- Addition of Actions: This occurs when the addition stems from the prayer itself, such as standing where one should sit, sitting where one should stand, or adding an extra bowing or prostration. If the worshiper does this unintentionally, they should perform the prostration of forgetfulness.
- Addition of Words: This refers to reciting something permissible in prayer but in the wrong position, such as reading during bowing or prostration, or uttering the testimonial while standing. If done by accident, it is recommended to perform the prostration of forgetfulness. However, if obligatory remembrance (such as glorifications during bowing and prostration) is neglected, a prostration will be necessary unless both actions are combined in which case it is recommended. Should the individual speak words unrelated to prayer intentionally, their prayer is unanimously deemed invalid by scholars.
If One Omits Aspects of the Prayer Unintentionally
If a worshiper neglects a fundamental component of the prayer, such as bowing or prostration, their prayer is considered invalid if done intentionally. In the case of neglecting the opening takbeer, the prayer does not count, and no prostration of forgetfulness can compensate for this. However, if the neglected action is a component other than the opening takbeer, the worshiper should return to complete the missing element or remember it upon reaching its position, effectively canceling the deficient unit and replacing it with the current one. If the worshiper remembers after completing the tasleem, they are required to perform the omitted component along with everything that follows it.
If One Doubts During the Prayer
Doubt in prayer typically falls into one of two scenarios:
- First Scenario: The worshiper has a strong inclination towards one of the uncertain outcomes. In this case, they should act according to what they believe is most likely, complete their prayer, perform the prostration of forgetfulness, and then conclude with tasleem.
- Second Scenario: The worshiper does not favor either of the outcomes. They should base their prayer on certainty of deficiency, proceed to perform the prostration of forgetfulness before concluding, and then complete their tasleem.