What is the ruling on the Imamate of a person whose both legs are amputated?

Chapter on Imamate and Congregational Prayer

Al-Mughni

Book of Prayer

Book 3 · Issue 2 · Bab 10

Open in Qurani

Primary text

The Imamate of one whose both legs are amputated is not valid because it is despaired that he can stand, thus invalidating his leadership, similar to a cripple (*az-zamin*).

Supporting text

If one leg is amputated and the person can stand, his Imamate is valid. A secondary view, derived from the opinion of Abu Bakr regarding hand amputation, suggests invalidity due to impairing prostration on a limb, but the first opinion is sounder because prostration can occur on the remaining part of the leg or a barrier.