Date : 20-10-2009

Question :

What is the ruling on making Qunoot supplication in Dawn's prayer?


The Answer :

All perfect praise be to Allah The Lord of The Worlds, and may His peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all of his family and companions.


Shafie and Hanbalie schools of thought are of the view that Qunoot supplication in Dawn prayer is an act of Sunnah since Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (PBUH) preserved making Qunoot in the Dawn prayer till he passed away {Related by Al-Imam Ahmad}.


In addition, Qunoot  supplication was also confirmed by a group of the companions, the followers and the Imams of the righteous predecessors. 


Moreover, Al-Imam Al-Nawawi (May Allah have mercy on his soul) said (What means): "Qunoot supplication is a confirmed Sunnah. However, leaving it-on purpose or forgetfully-doesn`t render one`s prayer (Dawn) invalid, but it is recommended that he/she performs the prostration of forgetfulness."


According to the Shafie school, the best time for making this Qunoot is the second Raka' after rising from bowing, but-according to the Malikies-it should be made before bowing. 


However, there is disagreement in this regard; the Hanafie and Hanbalie schools of thought are of the view that the aforementioned supplication is not an act of Sunnah.


Since this is a controversial issue, a person should not object to others` performing or not performing this Sunnah. However, we (Iftaa' Dept.) adopt the Shafiee's opinion since they have produced a stronger evidence proving that Qunoot supplication is a Sunnah.


In conclusion, we advise Muslims to cease arguing about the aforementioned and accusing each other with innovation to prevent sedition. And Allah Knows Best.