Where should a worshipper place their right hand over the left hand during standing in prayer?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
It is a Sunnah to place the right hand over the left hand during the standing portion of the prayer, as narrated from Ali, Abu Hurairah, Al-Nakhai, Abu Mijlaz, Sa'id ibn Jubayr, Al-Thawri, Al-Shafi'i, and the Ashab al-Ra'y. Evidence includes the narration of Qubaysa ibn Hulb from his father, stating the Prophet (peace be upon him) took his left hand with his right hand while leading the prayer. It is also recommended to place the right hand over the back of the left hand, wrist, or forearm, as described by Wael ibn Hajar.
Supporting text
The established position in the madhhab is to let the hands hang loose (*irsal*), narrated from Ibn al-Zubayr and Al-Hasan. Furthermore, there is a difference of opinion on the vertical placement: one view holds that the hands should be placed below the navel, supported by narrations from Ali and Abu Hurairah. Another view holds that they should be placed above the navel, supported by Wael ibn Hajar's narration of the Prophet placing them on his chest. A third option suggests one is free to choose either position as all reports are authentic and the matter is wide in scope.