Raful Yadain And Ameen

Raf’ul Yadain (Raising the Hands in Salah) and Saying Ameen Loudly

1. Raf’ul Yadain (Raising the Hands in Salah)

Raf’ul Yadain refers to the practice of raising the hands at specific points during Salah (prayer). There are differences of opinion among Sunni scholars regarding its application:

• Practiced by: The majority of scholars, including those of the Shafi'i, Hanbali, and Maliki schools, as well as the followers of the Hadith-based approach.

• Not Practiced (except at Takbir al-Ihram): The Hanafi school limits Raf’ul Yadain to the initial Takbir (Takbir al-Ihram) at the beginning of Salah and does not raise the hands at other points.

When is Raf’ul Yadain Done?

1. Before Takbir al-Ihram (Starting prayer) – This is agreed upon by all scholars.

2. Before and after Ruku' (Bowing) – Supported by authentic Hadiths (Bukhari & Muslim).

3. When standing up after the first Tashahhud (in 3 or 4 Rak’ah Salahs) – Also supported by authentic Hadiths.

2. Saying "Ameen" Loudly

Saying "Ameen" after Surah Al-Fatiha is part of the Sunnah in Salah. There are two main views:

• Said loudly in Salah where recitation is loud (Jahri Salah - e.g., Fajr, Maghrib, Isha): This is the practice of the Shafi'i, Hanbali, and some Maliki scholars, supported by Hadiths in Bukhari and Muslim, where the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions said "Ameen" loudly.

• Said silently: The Hanafi school holds that "Ameen" should be said quietly based on certain narrations and the practice of early scholars.

Summary:

• Raf’ul Yadain: Done in different parts of Salah by most scholars, but Hanafis only do it at the start.

• Ameen: Said loudly in congregational prayers by most scholars, but Hanafis say it silently.