Q 4: When the Imam (the one who leads in congregational Prayer) is delivering a sermon, and he is ascending the Minbar (pulpit) and holding a cane in his hands, is this considered a Fard (obligatory act), a Wajib (obligatory) [based on a speculative text, according to the Hanafi School of jurisprudence], a Sunnah (supererogatory act following the example of the Prophet), Mustahab (desirable) or just simply Mubah (permissible)?

A: The Sunnah is that a Khatib (preacher) offers his Khutbah (sermon) while standing on a Minbar, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). (Part No. 7; Page No. 110) He should stand at a conveniently average height so that the Ma'mums (persons being led by an Imam in Prayer) are able to see and hear him well. It is permitted for the Khatib to hold a cane or any thing that he may lean on while giving the Khutbah, if there is no Minbar, so it may help him to achieve composure and restrain his involuntary movements. However, as long as there is a Minbar, he is not allowed to use a cane or anything similar, as it has not been authentically reported that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), after going to the Minbar to preach, held a sword, a bow or a cane in his hand while standing on it. It is only allowed if the Khatib is old and needs a cane to lean on.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.