Is the Takbir (saying Allahu Akbar) required when descending into and rising from the prostration of recitation?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The Takbir is legislated both when descending into and when rising from the prostration, whether the prostration occurs within prayer or outside of it. This view is held by Ibn Sirin, Al-Hasan, Abu Qilabah, Al-Nakha'i, Muslim ibn Yasar, Abu Abd al-Rahman al-Sulami, Al-Shafi'i, Ishaq, and the Ashab al-Ra'y. The evidence is the narration of Ibn Umar stating that when the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, recited a prostration verse, he would say Takbir, prostrate, and they would prostrate with him. This confirms the Takbir for descending. As it is an independent prostration, the Takbir at its beginning is legislated, similar to the Takbir for rising after the Taslim (conclusion) in the prostration of forgetfulness (Sujud as-Sahw). It has been authentically reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said Takbir for both descending and rising.
Supporting text
Imam Malik stated that Takbir is required if the prostration occurs within formal prayer, and there is variation in his opinion regarding when it occurs outside of prayer. Al-Kharqi did not mention the Takbir for rising, although others among our companions mentioned it, as it aligns with the established analogy. Only one Takbir is legislated for initiating the prostration; one Takbir for initiating the prayer, and another specific Takbir for the prostration itself.