What is the ruling on intending to return greetings to the angels or fellow worshippers during the concluding Tasleem?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
It is permissible to intend to return greetings to the two recording angels (Hafadha) and to those behind, if one is the Imam, or to the Imam and those accompanying, if one is a follower (Ma'mum), alongside the intention of exiting the prayer. This is supported by the narration from Muslim, where the Prophet (peace be upon him) responded to the companions moving their hands excessively during Tasleem, stating, "When one of you says the Tasleem, he should turn to his companion and not gesture with his hand." Another narration from Abu Dawud indicates that the Prophet (peace be upon him) commanded them to return greetings to the Imam and to greet one another. This establishes the Sunnah of intending the Tasleem toward those present with the worshippers, which is the position of Al-Shafi'i and Abu Hanifa.
Supporting text
Abu Hafs ibn Al-Muslim stated that the first Tasleem should contain the intention to exit the prayer, and the second Tasleem should contain the intention to greet the recording angels and the followers (if Imam), or to return the greeting to the Imam and the recording angels (if Ma'mum). Ibn Hamid presented two differing views on whether the prayer is invalidated if the intention includes greeting people other than the angels while also intending to exit, though the sound position is that it is permissible, as Imam Ahmad permitted intending the return greeting to the Imam or the recording angels.