Does throat-clearing (nahnaha) during prayer invalidate the prayer?
Chapter on the Two Prostrations of Forgetfulness
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The companions of our school of thought hold that if throat-clearing produces two discernible letters, the prayer is invalidated, analogous to blowing air. However, the apparent state of Imam Ahmad suggests he did not strictly consider it invalid because throat-clearing is not classified as speech (*kalam*), and there is a necessity for it during prayer. Evidence supporting allowance, or at least non-invalidation, is derived from the report that Ali, may Allah be pleased with him, stated he would clear his throat to signal the Prophet, peace be upon him, was praying when he sought entry.
Supporting text
The ruling that invalidates prayer based on throat-clearing producing two letters is based on analogy with blowing air. However, reports indicate that Imam Ahmad himself engaged in throat-clearing during prayer, which those following his school interpret as meaning he was not producing two distinct letters.