The imam tying a handkerchief around his waist

Question

Is it permissible according to the Shari‘a for the imam of the two Eids — whether he has an excuse or not — to lead the prayer with a handkerchief tied around his waist? And may the imam be forbidden from such an act?

Answer

Tying a handkerchief around the waist is in itself permissible, but to regard it, without reason, as necessary for leading the two Eid prayers — whether in belief or in practice — is binding oneself to what is not binding (iltizam ma la yalzam), which is prohibited. Because of persistence, the ruling of karaha applies in the Shari‘a even to a mandub (recommended)

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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