What is the ruling for one who cannot recite the Takbir in Arabic?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
If a person does not know how to recite the Takbir in Arabic, he is obligated to learn it. If the fear of missing the prayer time is present, he may recite the Takbir in his native language. This opinion is mentioned by Al-Qadi in 'Al-Mujarrad' and is the madhhab of Al-Shafi'i.
Supporting text
Al-Qadi in 'Al-Jami'' states that one should not recite the Takbir in a non-Arabic language, treating the person as mute in this regard, similar to one unable to recite the Quran in Arabic who is not permitted to substitute it with another language. However, the first view is deemed sounder.