The Proper Attire for Women During Prayer
Scholars hold various opinions regarding a woman’s attire while praying. Some believe that a woman is considered entirely private during prayer, with the primary debate revolving around whether her hands and feet should be exposed. In general, women should cover themselves so that no non-mahram men can see them. It is essential to cover the tops of the feet, whereas the face may be left uncovered if it is not viewed by strangers.
Others argue that a woman should cover whatever is typically hidden from public view, which is classified as ‘awrah. Hence, she is permitted to reveal her outward adornments but must conceal any inner beauty. There is a disagreement regarding the definition of outward adornments; whether it refers to clothing or includes the face and hands. The prevailing view is that she must cover her entire body, with the exception of the face and hands, while ensuring that her feet are covered, as they are not required to be uncovered during ihram. Consequently, exposing these areas during prayer, similar to uncovering the shins, is not permissible.
Allah – the Almighty – states: “And let them not display their adornment except that which [ordinarily] appears thereof.” The intention here is to restrict revealing one’s inner beauty. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized that once a girl reaches puberty, “God does not accept the prayer of a menstruating woman without a headscarf.” Therefore, it is generally understood that women should cover their entire body in the same manner as when they are outside of prayer, with exceptions for the face and hands, which remain subjects of debate.
Posture of Women in Prayer
Scholarly opinions regarding the posture of women while sitting during prayer vary. Some scholars suggest that women may choose a position that they find most comfortable, such as sitting cross-legged, while others believe that they should let their feet down flat or adopt a cross-legged position. There are also perspectives that propose women should adopt a similar stance to men but with the addition of a more discreet posture. Most scholars agree that women should differ from men, which becomes evident when they pray in mosques or in the presence of males, emphasizing the need for modesty while in positions of prostration.
As Ibn Qudamah stated in his book “Al-Mughni”: “The general principle concerning women in prayer mirrors that of men since the divine decree encompasses them. However, she deviates in avoiding an open posture due to her being ‘awrah. Therefore, it is preferable for her to draw herself together to ensure greater modesty, as there is a risk of exposing oneself during a spread-apart position or while seated.”
A Woman’s Sitting Prayer in Public Spaces
The requirement to stand in prayer is only waived in cases of inability. Women are obligated to stand during their prayers, and in public settings or in the presence of men, strict adherence to the Islamic dress code is essential. Additionally, it is recommended that they draw their limbs together during bowing and prostration, further enhancing their modesty. A woman’s prayer while seated, if she is able to stand, is not acceptable.
A Pregnant Woman’s Prayer While Seated
Should a pregnant woman fear harm to herself or her unborn child, or if advised by a physician to refrain from standing, she is permitted to pray while seated without any issues. Her circumstances dictate her actions. Allah – the Almighty – says, “Indeed, man, against himself, will be a witness.” Additionally, He commands, “Fear Allah as much as you are able.”
However, if a woman prays while seated without an acceptable excuse, her prayer is deemed invalid. On the other hand, a pregnant woman is fully rewarded for her prayers if she cannot stand or suffers from an ailment affecting her legs. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mentioned, “If a servant falls ill or travels, he is granted the same reward as what he would receive when residing in good health.”
The Legitimacy of the Adhan and Iqamah for Women
The recitation of the adhan and iqamah is not prescribed for women, as it involves projecting one’s voice, which is typically reserved for men. Nevertheless, three unique situations apply:
- Women are not permitted to call the adhan or iqamah for a congregation of men.
Similarly, it is not permissible when both men and women gather, and women are not allowed to raise their voices during prayer in the presence of men.
- Women may call the adhan for a gathering of women.
However, it should be at a volume that is audible to them yet not loud as men’s adhan.
- A woman may perform the iqamah for an assembly of women
or for herself, which is encouraged, though her prayer remains valid even if she doesn’t perform it.
A Woman’s Prayer at Funerals
The funeral prayer is one of the divine rites instituted by Allah, primarily conducted by men. Women may attend funerals, but they should not participate in the burial process, due to prohibitions stated by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is narrated that when Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas passed away, the wives of the Prophet – peace be upon him – requested to pass by his funeral in the mosque to pray for him, and this was not contested by anyone.
Moreover, Um ‘Atiyah – may Allah be pleased with her – stated, “We were prohibited from following the funerals, but this was not strictly enforced.” Some scholars argue that the prohibition applies specifically to following the body to the burial site. Therefore, women are not allowed to follow the funeral procession, but praying for the deceased is encouraged. Some others maintain this prohibition is one of disrepute rather than a strict interdiction.