Is minor action necessitated by need permissible during prayer?
Chapter on what invalidates the prayer if omitted intentionally or forgetfully
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
Minor action necessitated by need is permissible during prayer. Evidence includes the report from Abu Dawud via 'A'ishah, that the Prophet (peace be upon him) prayed with the door locked, and when she came and asked to be let in, he walked, opened it for her, and then returned to his prayer spot. Similarly, Jabir reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) gestured when saluted while praying, and after finishing, called Jabir to speak to him regarding the greeting.
Supporting text
The prayer is not invalidated by any of these actions unless they occur successively and frequently, similar to continuous previous actions.