Prayer
Can I pray while music is playing?
Yes. Background music does not invalidate prayer. Ask politely to lower it or move away, and if you can't, focus on your recitation and carry on.
Topic
Prayer
How to pray, what to say, missed prayers and praying at work, school or while travelling. Short, honest answers for new Muslims.
Prayer
Can I pray right after smoking a cigarette?
Yes, smoking doesn't break wudu, so you can pray right after a cigarette. Rinse your mouth and freshen up because of the smell, and work on quitting.
Prayer
Can I pray on snow or wet grass?
Yes. Snow, wet grass and mud are fine to pray on if clean; put a mat, coat or waterproof bag under you and avoid visible dirt or ice.
Prayer
Can I pray in tight leggings?
Not usually on their own. Leggings show the body's shape and can turn see-through; wear a long top or prayer dress over them to cover properly.
Prayer
Can I pray in public places in Europe or the USA?
Yes, in most cases. Praying quietly in public is generally lawful in Europe and the USA; choose a safe, discreet spot and do not block anyone.
Prayer
Can I pray in pajamas or sweatpants?
Yes, if they are clean, not see-through and cover what you must cover. Men need navel to knee; women, everything except face and hands.
Prayer
Can I pray in front of my non-Muslim spouse?
Yes. You can pray at home with a non-Muslim husband or wife around. Share your prayer times kindly, ask for quiet and invite questions without pressure.
Prayer
Can I pray in front of my non-Muslim roommate?
Yes. You can pray in front of your roommate. Tell them kindly what you are doing, agree on quiet time and choose a corner of the room.
Prayer
Can I pray in English if I don't know Arabic?
Not usually: the fixed words of prayer are in Arabic. If you can't recite yet, say the dhikr the Prophet taught a beginner, and learn it step by step.
Prayer
Can I pray in clothes that smell of cigarette smoke?
Yes. A smell alone does not make clothes impure, and cigarette smoke is not najis. Pray as you are, but freshen up out of consideration for others.
Prayer
Can I pray in a store fitting room?
Yes, a clean fitting room is a valid place to pray if you have no better spot. Keep it brief, and ask staff before using a stockroom or quiet corner.
Prayer
Can I pray in a room with alcohol in it?
Yes, in most cases. Alcohol being kept or served in a room does not invalidate prayer if your spot is clean, but a quieter room is better.
