a mat that had turned black from long use, and the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, prayed upon it. (1)
Prostration upon these seven body parts is obligatory throughout the prostration. That is, one may not raise any of these limbs while prostrating: neither a hand, nor a foot, nor the nose, nor the forehead, nor any of the seven body parts. If he does so throughout the entire prostration, then there is no doubt that his prostration is invalid, because he has omitted one of the body parts upon which he is required to prostrate.
But if this occurs during the prostration—for example, if a man’s foot itches and he scratches it with the other foot—then this is a matter requiring consideration. It may be said that his prayer is invalid because he has omitted this pillar during part of the prostration.
And it may be said that it is sufficient, because what counts is what is predominant and most of the act. Thus, if for the greater part of the time he is prostrating upon the seven body parts, it is sufficient. Accordingly, the precaution is that he should not raise anything, but should remain patient. Even if he feels an itch in his hand, thigh, or foot, he should wait until he rises from prostration.
Question: If one is unable to prostrate upon some of these body parts, what should he do?
Answer: We have a principle, namely the saying of Allah Most High: “So fear Allah as much as you are able.” [Al-Taghabun: 16]
And the saying of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him: “When I command you to do something, then do of it whatever