The Significance of Prayer Marks on the Forehead in Islam

Understanding the Mark of Prostration in Islamic Prayer

Question: Men often have marks on their foreheads, possibly called mihrab, which form due to regular prayer. If a woman also develops such a mark, would it be considered a gift from Allah, especially if she is living according to the Quran and Hadith?

Answer: Having a mark on the forehead due to prostration is not a special gift from Allah for men or women. It simply forms because of regular prostration, just as marks can form on a person’s ankles or knees from sitting. There is no significant issue here. In Surah Al-Fath, Allah describes the mark of prostration as the light on their faces, meaning that those who prostrate sincerely to Allah will have a radiant and illuminated face. It is not necessary for there to be a visible mark on the forehead. What truly matters is the sincerity and adherence to the Sunnah in prayer. Such worship is accepted by Allah, and on the Day of Judgment, the limbs used in prayer will shine with the effects of ablution, regardless of whether there is a visible mark in this world.

✍ Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi (Hafizahullaah)

Jeddah Dawah Center – As-Salamah – Kingdom of Saudi Arabia