Assalamu Alaikum Since 8-10 years I have knee pain in both the knees due to Ostio Arthritis. Consulted a Hindu Orthopedic surgeon who advised me to avoid certain actions/movement of legs. One such action to avoid is sitting in Khaida while performing Namaaz. Advised me to always use a chair for Namaaz. Otherwise the doctor said the problem may increase further and may lead to severe pain, problem in walking and ultimately knee joint replacement surgery. I am now offering Namaaz using a chair. I perform normal Khayaam, Ruku but sit on the chair for Sajda (with sajda action) and Khaida (sitting on the chair). If no chair is available in any mosque, I perform normal namaaz with some discomfort while in khaida and getting up from khaida. My question is can I offer namaaz with the above method or continue the namaaz in normal way till the problem become too serious. To avoid future knee joint complications, as a precautionary measure, can I offer namaaz using a chair. Further is it necessary to consult a muslim doctor to obtain his advice or this hindu doctor’s advice is sufficient?
Answer
(Fatwa: 2303/1901=B/1429)
Qiyam (standing on feet) is fardh (obligatory) in salah, but if anyone is having some problem then he can offer salah sitting as well. Offering salah sitting only for avoiding future problems is not right until it is prescribed by any religious Muslim expert physician.
Allah (Subhana Wa Ta’ala) knows Best
Darul Ifta,
Darul Uloom Deoband