Is smoothing pebbles ('masah al-hasa') during prayer disliked?
Chapter on what invalidates the prayer if omitted intentionally or forgetfully
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
Smoothing pebbles during prayer is disliked. Abu Dharr narrated that when one stands for prayer, mercy is facing him, so he should not smooth pebbles. Regarding this action, the Prophet, peace be upon him, stated that if one must do it, it should be only once (narrated by Muslim, Ibn Majah, and Abu Dawud).