Prostration on the Earth

Description

Prostrating on the Earth is a groundbreaking exploration of one of the most essential yet debated acts of Islamic worship—prostration (sujūd). Rooted in a deeply reverent understanding of prayer, this book examines the jurisprudential differences among Islamic schools of thought regarding what surfaces are valid for prostration, with a specific focus on the Twelver Imamiyyah perspective.

While all Muslims agree on the obligation of prostrating twice in each unit (rak‘ah) of prayer, differences abound concerning the precise requirements—such as the permissible surfaces for the forehead, the role of garments like turbans, and whether partial contact with the earth suffices. Drawing from authoritative sources like The Jurisprudence According to the Four Schools and Bidayat al-Mujtahid, the book presents a panoramic view of Sunni legal opinions, highlighting the nuanced interpretations regarding materials like soil, cloth, stone, and even the back of another person during crowded prayers.

In contrast, the Twelver Imamiyyah tradition—rooted in the teachings of the Ahlul Bayt (peace be upon them)—maintains that prostration must be done directly on natural elements such as soil, sand, or pebbles, or on non-edible, non-wearable vegetation. This stance is grounded in prophetic tradition and supported by authentic narrations from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) and his Companions.

For students of Islamic law, theology, and spirituality, Prostrating on the Earth offers a deeply informed and spiritually rich investigation into the meaning of sacred submission. It not only clarifies legal debates but also reconnects the act of sujūd with its original purity and symbolism—humbling oneself on the earth before the Creator.