IslamToday - English

The recitation of Sûrah al-Fâtihah for a follower behind the imam in congregational prayer is a matter of disagreement among scholars. The majority of Companions and Successors were of the view that Sûrah al-Fâtihah should not be read in the audible prayers while the imam is reading.

This is the opinion that we prefer, since Allah says: “When the Qur’ân is read, listen to it with attention, and hold your peace that you may receive mercy.” [Sûrah al-A`râf: 204].

However, if the imam stops reading, then the one following in prayer should read Sûrah al-Fâtihah, because there is no silence without remembrance in prayers, and because the reason to abstain from reading is no longer present.

And Allah knows best.

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For another opinion, please refer to the fatwâ on our archive by Sheikh `Abd Allah b. Sardâr entitled "Reciting Sûrah al-Fâtihah behind the imam"