What is the legal ruling concerning the omission of the Opening Takbir (Takbirat al-Ihram)?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The Opening Takbir is a pillar (rukn) of the prayer; the prayer is not constituted without it. This applies whether the omission is intentional or due to forgetfulness. This is the ruling held by Rabi'ah, Malik, Thawri, Al-Shafi'i, Ishaq, Abu Thawr, and Ibn al-Mundhir. The evidence for this is the Prophet's statement, 'Its prohibition [of entering into speech or action outside of prayer] is the Takbir,' which indicates that one does not enter the prayer without it.
Supporting text
Sa'id ibn al-Musayyib, Al-Hasan, Al-Zuhri, Qatadah, Al-Hakam, and Al-Awza'i held that if one forgets the Opening Takbir, the Takbir of bowing (Ruku') suffices for them.