Question:
Please provide the references from the Qur’an and Hadith, that directly prohibits a woman leading the Salaat.
Answer:
Nabi (S.A.W.), while delivering a sermon, directly prohibited women from leading prayers, “Behold! No women should lead a man in prayer.” (Sunan-e-Ibne Majah)
The Qur’an speaks, “And whatever the messenger assigns to you, you should accept, and whatever he forbids you from, you should refrain. And fear Allah, certainly Allah is severe in afflicting.” (Surah Al-Hashar, Verse 7)
An Imam holds the position of a leader amongst the people. Women, however, have been banned from assuming the position of leadership, as emphasized by Rasoolullah (S.AW.), “How can a people lead by a woman, ever prosper.”
The Jurists have unanimously agreed that women are not allowed to lead the prayers.
(Raddul Muhtaar, Vol. 2, Page 280, Al-Mughni li Ibni Qudamah, Vol. 3, Page 19-32-33, Al-Muheetul Burhaani, Vol. 2, Page 185)
And Allah Ta’ala knows best
Ebrahim bin Zainul Abedeen Backus
Attested to as correct by:
Mufti Muhammad Ashraf
Darul Iftaa
Jameah Mahmoodiyah
Springs
08 August 2005
02 Rajab 1426