The Ruling on Repeating Prayer Due to Loss of Khushu‘

Abstract

This research investigates the jurisprudential debate on whether prayer must be repeated when khushuʿ (devotional humility) is absent, a question tied to both the validity and the perfection of worship. Employing inductive, analytical, and comparative methods, it surveys juristic definitions of khushuʿ and ṭumaʾnīnah (tranquillity), distinguishes between them, and traces classical and contemporary opinions on their role in prayer. The study finds that khushuʿ is an inward, spiritual state whose juristic status ranges from recommended to obligatory, while ṭumaʾnīnah is a fundamental pillar without which prayer is invalid. It concludes that the absence of khushuʿ does not necessitate repeating the prayer so long as its essential conditions, pillars, and duties are fulfilled, though khushuʿ remains central to the prayer’s perfection. The research emphasizes the importance of considering jurisprudential differences in issuing rulings, thereby safeguarding the purpose of worship while avoiding undue hardship or obsessive doubts.