Is Salah Valid with eyes closed ?

Praise be to Allah

Summary: It is generally disliked to pray with one’s eyes closed unless there is a valid reason for doing so, such as avoiding distractions or enhancing concentration.

Detailed Answer: Scholars agree that it is disliked to close the eyes during Salah without a valid reason, as it resembles the actions of Jews and gives the appearance of being asleep (Ar-Rawd Al-Murabbi, 1/95; Manar As-Sabil, 1/66; Al-Kafi, 1/285). However, it is permissible if there are distractions, like seeing inappropriate things or to avoid harmful insects (Al-Iqna, 1/127; Al-Mughni, 2/30). Ibn Al-Qayyim noted that if closing the eyes enhances concentration due to surrounding distractions, it is not disliked (Zad Al-Ma’ad, 1/283).

Imam Al-Izz ibn Abd As-Salam mentioned that closing the eyes is permissible when necessary if it aids concentration during prayer (Fatwas).

Real-life Scenarios and Consequences:

1. Lack of Awareness: If you pray with your eyes closed behind an Imam, you might miss someone passing in front of you. This could lead to a lack of awareness of your surroundings, potentially causing interruptions in your prayer.
2. Risk of Dozing Off: If you are tired, closing your eyes might lead you to inadvertently doze off during prayer, thus invalidating your Salah.
3. Dangerous Situations: Praying with closed eyes might make you unaware of a harmful insect or other potential dangers in your immediate environment. For instance, if a harmful insect is nearby, you won’t notice it until it possibly harms you.
4. Missing Important Movements: In a congregational prayer, closing your eyes might make you less attentive to the Imam’s movements, leading you to miss important actions or delays in following the prayer correctly.

Conclusion: While it is generally disliked to close the eyes in Salah, it is permissible when necessary to enhance focus and avoid distractions, provided it does not lead to other issues like lack of awareness or potential harm.

And Allah Knows Best