Is prostration valid if performed over the loops of a turban?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
Prostration upon the loops of a turban is deemed valid based on one narration mentioned by the القاضي. This is the doctrine of Malik and Abu Hanifa. Al-Hasan and Mak'hul permitted prostration over the loops of the turban. It is argued that since the garment is a covering for a limb of prostration, prostrating upon its covering is permissible, analogous to the feet. Furthermore, it is argued that the companions who complained about the heat did not request permission for this specific act, as the poor lacked turbans or long sleeves to protect themselves, and thus, the permission for them would not be established over other means, such as the palms of the hands.
Supporting text
Al-Athram reported asking Abu Abd al-Rahman (Ahmad) about prostrating on the loops of the turban, and he replied, "He should not prostrate on its loops, but he should uncover the turban." This implies prohibition, which is the position of Al-Shafi'i. A contrary opinion exists that it is obligatory to uncover the hands, though the text indicates that Al-Shafi'i's explicit position is that uncovering them is not obligatory.