of idols, whether the image is standing upright or not, according to the soundest opinion.

It is likewise disliked to commence the prayer while the mind is unsettled because something is causing discomfort—such as needing to pass urine, stool, or wind, or being exposed to severe cold or extreme heat, or suffering intense hunger or thirst—for these conditions prevent humility.

Similarly, it is disliked to enter the prayer when food one desires has been served, for the Prophet said, “There is no prayer when food is present, nor while one is resisting the two impurities.” Muslim related this narration.

All of this safeguards the right of Allah, so that the servant may enter worship with a heart that is fully present and oriented toward his Lord.

It is also disliked for a Muslim to single out a particular item—such as a small piece of cloth or a tablet—for his forehead alone during prostration, for this is one of the distinctive practices of the Rāfiḍites and thus entails imitating them.

During the prayer it is disliked to wipe the forehead or nose to remove traces of prostration; doing so after the prayer, however, is unobjectionable.

Likewise, it is disliked in the prayer to fidget by stroking the beard, folding the edge of one’s garment, cleaning the nose, and the like, for such actions distract one from the prayer.

What is required of the Muslim is to direct his whole being to the prayer and not occupy himself with anything outside of it. Allah, exalted is He, says: “Guard strictly your prayers, especially the middle prayer, and stand before Allah in devout obedience.”