Is the prostration of gratitude (Sujud al-Shukr) recommended?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The prostration of gratitude is recommended upon the renewal of blessings and the repulsion of calamities. This view is held by Al-Shafi'i, Ishaq, Abu Thawr, and Ibn Al-Mundhir. The evidence for this is that when an event pleased the Prophet (peace be upon him), he would fall down in prostration, as narrated by Abu Bakra, recorded by Abu Dawud with the wording indicating it was in gratitude to Allah. Al-Tirmidhi classified this hadith as Hasan Gharib. Furthermore, Abu Bakr prostrated upon the conquest of Yamama, and Ali prostrated upon finding Dhul-Thudayya. This practice was reported from a group of Companions, establishing its prevalence.
Supporting text
Al-Nakha'i, Malik, and Abu Hanifa deem it disliked (Makruh). They argue that during the Prophet's time of conquests and when rain was requested and granted, it was not reported that he prostrated. They assert that had it been recommended, he would not have omitted it.