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سكينة

Scholars Differ

Can I pray in English while I'm still learning Arabic?

Short Answer

The prayer must eventually be in Arabic, but scholars differ on what a new Muslim should do during the learning phase.

Detailed Explanation
The ritual prayer (Salah) is a standardized act of worship revealed in Arabic. The majority view is that Al-Fatiha and the recitation must be in Arabic. However, for a new Muslim who literally cannot speak Arabic yet, scholars offer solutions. Imam Abu Hanifa initially allowed Persian for those unable to speak Arabic. The majority say if you cannot recite Quran, you should glorify Allah (saying SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar) instead. Some modern scholars allow using English temporarily while striving to learn the Arabic.
Evidence
  • quran

    Lo! We have revealed it, a Lecture in Arabic

    Quran 12:2

  • hadith

    The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught a man who could not learn Quran to say SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar

    Sunan Abi Dawud #832

Common Misconception

That you must wait until you are fluent in Arabic to start praying. You start praying immediately, doing your best.

Practical Advice

Do not delay prayer. If you can't read Arabic, hold a piece of paper with the transliteration during prayer (permitted by Shafi'i and others for learners). Your effort to learn is worship.

Related Questions

This content is for educational guidance only and does not constitute a fatwa (legal ruling). Islamic rulings can vary based on your school of thought and local context. We recommend consulting a local scholar you trust for personal advice.