Is prostration required for intentionally omitting or performing an action in prayer?
Chapter on the Two Prostrations of Forgetfulness
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
Prostration is not legislated for an act omitted or performed intentionally. This position is held by Abu Hanifa. The evidence rests on the fact that the prostration is attributed specifically to forgetfulness (sahw), as indicated by the text stating, "If one of you forgets, let him prostrate two prostrations." The expiation of forgetfulness does not necessitate the expiation of intentional acts because the person is excused for forgetfulness but not for intentional deviation. Furthermore, the argument for analogy fails when considering additions of a pillar or a rak'ah, or standing where one should sit, or sitting where one should stand, for which prostration is not legislated.
Supporting text
Al-Shafi'i holds that prostration is required for intentionally omitting the Tashahhud or the Qunut, based on the premise that whatever is required for forgetfulness (as an expiation) is also required for the intentional act, similar to expiations in Hajj.