When the mind wanders during Salaat, does this indicate lack or weakness of Imaan? How can it be locked down?
Question
Does the reward for the Salaat diminish due to this? How about when praying in Jamaat? Also, how is the reward for praying in Jamaat awarded? Does this depend at all on how devoted the congregation is?
Answer
Wandering of the mind is of two types, a) volitional (within one's control), and b) involitional (stray thoughts)
a) Volitional, i.e. within one's control. One should not deliberately cause the mind to stray. Do not intentionally drift from one thought to another. b) Involitional, i.e. stray thoughts. These are thoughts that enter the mind with no apparent cause, or no previous thought leading to this thought. These stray thoughts are not harmful, and do not cause the reward of Salaat to diminish. However, the moment one realizes the mind has drifted by these stray thoughts, then immediately bring it back to the Salaat. As long as you adopt this remedy, then there is nothing to be worried or perturbed about. Each person is rewarded according to his personal devotion to Salaat. However, the company of pious people in the Jamaat influences one devotion and renders it easier to concentrate.
and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Moulana Imraan Vawda
FATWA DEPT.
CHECKED AND APPROVED: Mufti Muhammad Kadwa
- Answered by
- Moulana Imraan Vawda
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