The manner of announcing the Iqamah

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Q: Is it permissible for a person who makes the Iqamah (call to start the Prayer) for Salah (Prayer) to put his fingers in his ears, or hold his hand on his chest as if he is in Salah, as I saw some people do both things. Because I love the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his Sunnah (whatever is reported from the Prophet), I would like to know what is right, may Allah reward you for that.

A: The basic ruling in the Shari`ah (Islamic law) is that acts of worship should be based on Tawqif (a religious text and not personal opinion) and not on sayings or acts involving innovation in religion. Therefore, it is not permissible for a person who makes the Iqamah to put his fingers in his ears; because this is specific to the Adhan (call to Prayer). Also, it is not permissible to hold one's hands on the chest as if in Salah because there is no evidence for doing so.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.