Ṣalātu ʾl-Marīẓ (صلاة المريض)
Definition and Practice
Ṣalātu ʾl-Marīẓ (صلاة المريض), often termed as the “Prayer of the Sick,” is a specific provision within Islamic law allowing individuals who are unwell to perform their obligatory prayers (Ṣalāh) in a manner that accommodates their physical limitations. According to Islamic jurisprudence, when a person is too ill to stand up for the regular prayer, they are permitted to perform the prayer while sitting or reclined. This practice underscores the compassionate and accommodating nature of Islamic obligations to ensure every believer retains the opportunity to fulfill their religious duties, despite physical adversity.
Etymology and Translations
Etymology:
- Ṣalātu (صلاة): Derived from the root “ṣ-l-w” (ص-ل-و), meaning ’to pray’ or ’to bless.'
- al-Marīẓ (المريض): Derived from the root “m-r-ḍ” (م-ر-ض), meaning ‘sick’ or ‘ill.’
Translations:
- Arabic: صلاة المريض (Ṣalātu ʾl-Marīẓ)
- Turkish: Hasta namazı
Legal and Theological Basis
The allowance for revised prayer postures in cases of illness is supported by the hadith and consensus (ijmāʾ) among Islamic scholars, which emphasizes that Allah does not burden a soul beyond its capacity (Qur’an 2:286). Consequently, if a person is unable to perform the prayer in the traditional standing posture:
- Sitting Posture: If capable, the individual should perform the prayer seated.
- Reclining Posture: If unable to sit, the person can perform the prayer lying down or reclining.
Mental Prostrations
In extreme cases where physical movement is severely restricted, such as during hospitalization or severe conditions, a person can perform the required actions mentally. This adaptation ensures spiritual continuity and compliance with obligatory prayers under constraining circumstances.
Scholarly Reference
One of the classical references discussing this jurisprudential ruling is found in “Raddu ʾl-Muḥtār,” a leading text in Hanafi jurisprudence. The specific ruling is elucidated in volume one, page 891.
Suggested Books for Further Study
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the allowances for Ṣalātu ʾl-Marīẓ and other aspects of Islamic jurisprudence, the following books are recommended:
- “Al-Muwatta” by Imam Malik
- “Reliance of the Traveller” by Ahmad ibn Naqib al-Misri
- “Fiqh al-Islam wa Adillatuh” by Wahbah al-Zuhayli
Key Takeaways and Conclusion
- Ṣalātu ʾl-Marīẓ is a compassionate accommodation within Islamic practice that allows the sick to fulfill their prayer obligations.
- It highlights the flexibility of Islamic law in addressing the physical limitations of believers.
- Both sitting and reclining postures are permissible under specific conditions, ensuring no one misses their compulsory prayers.
Conclusion
Ṣalātu ʾl-Marīẓ is a prime example of the accommodating nature of Islamic law (Sharia). It ensures every Muslim can maintain their spiritual practices and remain connected to their faith, regardless of their physical condition. This intrinsic flexibility demonstrates the Islamic principle that religious responsibility is always balanced with human capacity and circumstances.
