Q: What is opinion of Imams ahmad bin hambal (and Imam maliki if you care to share) on reciting of surah fathiha in salah behind an Imaam? we got an Imam that juggles with his answers and I am confused confused confused. Plze help me. (personal email)
Answers: It possibly is that the Imaam himself is confused, or is giving you differing opinions which is causing your confusion. More likely it is the latter. Let us help with clarity on the matter.
The Malikis and Hanbalies hold the following view:
As for Fajr, Maghrib and Isha, it would be viewed as follows:
- makruh to recite surah fatiha
Or one can view it as
- permissible to recite surah fatiha
Or one can view it as
- preferable to recite surah fatiha
As for Zohr and Asr, it rule would be as follows:
- Wajib to recite surah fatiha
Or one can view it as
- Mustahab to recite surah fatiha
Or one can view it as
- permissible to recite surah fatiha
(Side note: Although according to these two madhabs all of the above remains correct, you can chose either of the above for the appropriate salah. It would be best for you to be consistent if you are part of the above madhab so as to avoid self-confusion and much unnecessary debate.)
Allah certainly knows best
note: DT