As for anyone who abandons the prayer out of complacency or laziness, without denying its obligation, he has fallen into disbelief according to the sounder of the two scholarly opinions; indeed, this is the correct view supported by the evidences, such as the Prophet’s statement, “Between a man and disbelief is the abandonment of prayer,” recorded by Muslim, along with other proofs.

It is proper that his neglect of the prayer be made public so that he is disgraced until he resumes praying. One should neither greet him with peace nor accept his invitations until he repents and establishes the prayer, for the prayer is the pillar of the religion and the line that separates Muslim from unbeliever. No matter what other deeds a servant may perform, they will not benefit him so long as he is negligent of the prayer.

We ask Allah for safety and well-being.