Question
Assalaam-u-alaikum.
Please can you tell me whether it is permissible for a man to make imamat at home with his wife and son, and if so, what conditions need to be met to do this?
The reason I ask, is because my son is still very young(2 and half years) but has already started asking if he can accompany me to the Masjid. I would like to know whether I can teach him at home in the meantime.
Jazaakallah
Answer
In the Name of Allāh, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāh wa-barakātuh.
Respected Sister
It is encouraging to note that your little son is enthusiastic of performing Salaah. This is a sign to show that the environment of your house is Islamic and your children are being nurtured with Islamic values. May Allah make them steadfast and continue inspiring them to follow the beautiful life of Islam and Deen show to us by Nabi Muhammed (), Ameen.
It is permissible for you to make Imamat at home with your family. Your son should stand on your right hand side close by if he is the only male Maqtadi (follower). If there are two or more they should stand behind you as we normally do in the Musjid. The womenfolk should follow at a distance, probably two or three meters from the last row of the men.
It is important to bear in mind to make intention of imamat for females when leading them in Salaah otherwise their Salaah will not be valid.
However, if the Musjid is close by, you should perform your Salaah in the Musjid as it is necessary for males to perform their Salaah in the Musjid. You may perform your Nafl Salaah at home and get your little one to join you in the Nafl.
And Allah Knows Best
Darul Iftaa
Madrasah Inaa’miyya
