When I pray, my daughter who is approximately 14 months, walks on the prayer mat and tries to play with me whilst I’m in prayer, is it better that I close the door so she doesn’t come in? What if she is wearing a nappy?
Questioner: Rizwan from UK
All praises belong to Allāh, the Creator Most Sublime Who is Uncreated, the One Who loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves. Peace and blessings of Allāh be upon the final Prophet, Our Master, Muhammad Mustafa ﷺ, upon his purified family, his esteemed companions, and whomsoever follows in his blessed footsteps until the last day.
Asalāmu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullāhi wa barakātu hu
The Prophet of Allāh ﷺ has said:
أَلاَ كُلُّكُمْ رَاعٍ وَكُلُّكُمْ مَسْئُولٌ عَنْ رَعِيَّتِهِ
“Beware. All of you are a shepherd (with regards to his family) and all of you are answerable with regard to his flock…” [Sahih Muslim 1829]
The methods of teaching children are exposing them to your religious practices visually from the onset and when they reach the age of seven to practically teach them and encourage them to pray.
Your child playing with you whilst you are engaged in pray does not affect your prayer.
Handling your child whilst the child’s nappy is soiled will invalidate your prayer. It is impermissible to carry filth whilst in prayer. [Dūrr-e Mūkhtār]
And Allaah knows best.
Answered by Ustadh Asid Shafait
Checked by Shaykh Naveed Jameel ash-Shaami
