What is the ruling if the Imam mistakenly recites loudly during a silent prayer portion or silently during a loud prayer portion?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
If the Imam recites loudly during a portion meant to be silent, or silently during a portion meant to be loud, he has abandoned the Sunnah, but his prayer remains valid. If the Imam forgets and recites loudly during a silent portion, and then remembers mid-recitation, he should continue his current recitation.
Supporting text
If the Imam forgets and recites silently during a loud portion, there are two narrations: one opinion states he continues his current recitation, and the second suggests he should repeat the recitation. This choice is based on preference, not obligation. He is not required to repeat if he recited loudly in a silent portion because that is considered adding to the prayer.