Qabd Vs Sadl: An Argument that the True Maliki Opinion is Right Hand Over The Left
Alhamdulilah for the vastness and beauty of Islam! For those who enjoy comparitive fiqh, you will enjoy the discussion that will continue. For those who do not or who feel that “ikhtilaaf” is not a mercy, then do not read further. Before I begin this discussion I want to get a few things out of the way:
1) This is an issue of what is recommended vs what is not. Not an issue of obligation, thus no one should be cutting throats over this issue. 2) I fully respect the ijtihad of the scholars who deem sadl (hands on the side) to be the verdict of the Maliki school. I simply disagree that this was the established view of the Medinites. 3) This is a discussion regarding this issue, and I expect all those involved to be loving, gentle, and caring.
Now for the crux of the matter. I forward, oh beloved Sidi Abdur-Rahman, that qabd (the act of placing the right hand on the left in Salah) was in fact the view of Ahlul Medinah. It was also considered Mustahabb by Imam Malik and the school. I shall present the reasons below: