Is covering the shoulders with a rope or thread sufficient for prayer?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
Placing a rope or thread on the shoulders is generally not sufficient for prayer. This is because the Prophet, peace be upon him, commanded: 'If one of you prays in a single garment, let him cross its ends over his shoulders,' as authenticated in reliable narrations, narrated by Abu Dawud. The command to place it on the shoulders is for covering, and this is not achieved by placing a thread or rope, nor is it termed a covering or garment.
Supporting text
Some companions held that placing a rope or thread is sufficient, interpreting the Hadith generally. Evidence cited includes the narration of Jabir, who prayed in a single garment wrapped around him such that one could see his shoulder as if a rat's tail was on it. Another report states that Companions, lacking other garments, would place a rope (iqal) over their shoulders and pray. However, the evidence cited from Jabir is deemed unauthentic, and if the report concerning the Companions is authentic, it was due to the absence of anything else available.