But if he bows by gesture, should we also bow by gesture, or should we bow fully?

The apparent view is that we should bow fully. This is because the gesture of one unable to bow does not alter the posture of standing except by a slight inclination—unlike the case of standing while the imam is seated.

Moreover, concerning standing while the imam is seated, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, indicated its underlying reason: if we were to stand while our imam was seated, we would resemble the non-Arabs who stand before their kings. Hence, one wording of the hadith states: “You were nearly doing as the Persians and Romans do: they stand before their kings while the latter are seated. So do not do that. Follow your imams: if he prays standing, then pray standing; and if he prays seated, then pray seated.” (1)

Thus, if our imam is seated while we are standing, we are standing over him. But if he is unable to bow and therefore gestures, while we bow, we do not thereby resemble the non-Arabs.

Likewise, regarding inability to prostrate, the correct view is that an imam who is unable to prostrate may lead one who is able to do so. But in this case, should the follower gesture for prostration?

The answer is no; rather, he should prostrate fully.

The same applies to one unable to sit: we pray behind him despite our own ability to sit, as when he is ill, unable to sit, and prays lying on his side.

But should we lie down?