From which side should one turn after completing the prayer?

Chapter on the Description of Prayer

Al-Mughni

Book of Prayer

Book 3 · Issue 1 · Bab 5

Open in Qurani

Primary text

One may turn in any direction desired, whether to the right or to the left, after concluding the prayer. This is established by the statement of Ibn Mas'ud, who advised against giving Satan a portion of one's prayer by making it obligatory to only turn right. Evidence is provided by the narration that the Prophet, peace be upon him, was frequently observed turning to his left, as narrated by Muslim. Further support comes from the report that the Prophet, peace be upon him, turned to both his sides after prayer, as narrated by Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah based on the authority of Qubaysa ibn Hilb.