Is recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha required for the follower if the Imam is reciting audibly, based on dissenting narrations?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
Recitation of Al-Fatiha is required for the follower even when the Imam recites audibly, based on the general Hadith: "There is no prayer for one who does not recite the Fatiha of the Book," which is universally agreed upon. Another narration from 'Ubadah ibn al-Samit states that the Prophet, peace be upon him, allowed recitation only of Al-Fatiha behind him. Furthermore, the narration from Abu Hurayrah indicates that any prayer without reciting the Mother of the Book is deficient, and when asked about praying behind the Imam, he indicated that the follower should recite it silently. This is also supported by the principle that if an act is an essential pillar for the individual worshipper, it is not waived for the follower, unlike other pillars. However, the strongest position is that recitation is not required when the Imam recites audibly.
Supporting text
The Hadith of 'Ubadah is interpreted as applying to situations other than when one is following the Imam. The statement of Abu Hurayrah to recite silently is potentially restricted to the Imam's pauses or silent recitations, as another narration states: "When the Imam recites, be silent," and the narration of 'Ubadah relied upon by the opposing side was only narrated by Ibn Ishaq, which is deemed weaker.