What is the ruling on intentionally omitting one of the four required Takbirat in the funeral prayer?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Funerals

Book 7 · Issue 4 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

If one intentionally omits a Takbirah from the four required, the prayer is invalidated, analogous to omitting an entire rak'ah intentionally in other prayers. The Prophet (peace be upon him) performed four Takbirat over the Negus and over a grave after burial.

Supporting text

If one omits a Takbirah due to forgetfulness, it is held that the prayer should be repeated if the interval is not long, similar to when a rak'ah is missed due to forgetfulness. Alternatively, the missed Takbirah may be performed without repeating the whole prayer, as Anas did after performing three Takbirat by mistake, provided the separation is not prolonged. Prostration of forgetfulness (Sujood As-Sahw) is not legislated in either case of omission.