What is the ruling on the manner of sitting (Iq'a) between the two prostrations?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The preferred ruling is that the manner known as 'Iq'a' (sitting by spreading the feet and resting on the heels, as described by Ahmad and Ahl al-Hadith) is disliked (*makruh*). This dislike is held by Ali, Abu Hurairah, Qatadah, Malik, Al-Shafi'i, and the Ashab al-Ra'y, and it is the practice among most scholars. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) forbade this type of sitting, stating, "Do not perform Iq'a between the two prostrations." Similarly, it is reported that the Prophet commanded Anas, "When you raise your head from prostration, do not perform Iq'a as a dog performs Iq'a." The correct Sunnah regarding sitting between the prostrations involves spreading the left leg and sitting upon it, while keeping the right leg erect, as established in the hadith of Abu Humaid and Aisha. These more numerous and sound hadiths take precedence.
Supporting text
Some Companions, including Ibn Umar, Ibn Abbas, and Ibn Zubayr (the Abadilah), reportedly practiced a form of Iq'a. Ibn Umar stated that his practice was due to old age and commanded others not to follow his example. Taus related that Ibn Abbas affirmed that having one's buttocks touch the feet (a description of one form of Iq'a) is Sunnah, stating, "It is the Sunnah of your Prophet," although those asking suggested it seemed harsh on the feet.