Joining in Prayer of Non Muslims.
Question:
In my work place (Muslim company) ‘spirituality’ is encouraged among all workers. In this regard, a joint daily prayer in each department is done with ghair-muslims and Muslims gathered together. The prayer is said by anyone in a general way e.g. “Oh God or heavenly father help us in our daily work and guide us.”
Is it permissible as a Muslim to join in this prayer? The word Jesus/Ram/Allah is not mentioned in the prayer. Also, in staff meetings the same is done. What should I do as a Muslim when this prayer is being offered at the start of the staff meeting? Jaza-Kallah.
Answer:
If the prayer is made in a general manner using the name of God or heavenly father and there is no mention of any other name, then it is allowed for you to be a part of that gathering and join in the prayer on the condition that no action of shirk or kufr is associated with such supplication. The same will be applicable for staff meetings also.
When such prayers are being offered at the start of staff meetings and other occasions, you should remain silent without doing the actions which they may do while offering these prayers. That is, some of them bow their heads and others put their hands together and lift them to their chests. You should not do these.
And Allah knows best.
Mufti Waseem Khan