Is prayer obligatory upon a child prior to puberty?

Chapter on the Description of Prayer

Al-Mughni

Book of Prayer

Book 3 · Issue 4 · Bab 5

Open in Qurani

Primary text

Prayer is not obligatory upon a child in the apparent view of the Madhhab. The accountability structure, including the lifting of the pen, applies only after reaching puberty, which serves as the clear boundary for the maturation of intellect and structure necessary for full legal responsibility. The Prophet's command regarding teaching and discipline is for training purposes, not enforcement of a binding obligation.