[Q 137] Closing Eyes During Prayer: Permissibility & Focus

Question

May I know if it is acceptable to close one’s eyes during any parts of their prayer, such as during ruku, or sajda to help with focus? Is it haram to close ones eyes whilst praying as we should be focusing on our spot where we are prostrating, or is it permissible?

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

الجواب بعون الملك الوهاب اللهم هداية الحق والصواب

Answer

If someone is unable to attain humility and focus with open eyes during prayer, however with closed eyes it helps them attain focus, then they may pray with closed eyes. There is no objection in this, in fact it is better to do so.

However, closing the eyes without reason during prayer is Makruh Tanzihi, meaning it is disliked but not sinful, so it is better to avoid it.

Answered by: Tabaruk Madani (AskMufti Scholar)

Verified by: Mufti Sajid Attari

Translated by: Shaheer Attari