What is the ruling on praying while sitting due to lack of space or fatigue?

Question:

What is the ruling on praying while sitting due to lack of space or fatigue?

Answer:

  • All four madhhabs agree that standing is obligatory in farḍ prayers if a person is physically able.
  • Lack of space, laziness, or light fatigue is not a valid excuse to sit in obligatory prayer.
  • In nafl (voluntary) prayers, all madhhabs allow praying while sitting even if one is able to stand—though standing brings more reward.


It is not allowed to pray a farḍ prayer while sitting due to crowding or tiredness if one is physically able to stand. If one is sick are unable they may sit. Standing is a pillar of the prayer. For voluntary prayers, sitting is allowed.

Wallāhu Aʿlam.

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