The imamate of one who does not take care to cover his ‘awra

Question

(1) If a certain person is often with his ‘awra uncovered (kashif al-‘awra) — that is, while occupied with worldly work he wears a cloth like a loincloth — then, according to the Shari‘a, is it permissible to pray behind this ‘alim with the described trait or not? (2) If some ‘alim crosses a canal or a stream naked, in a situation where there are people around him, what is the ruling of the Shari‘a concerning this person?

Answer

When a loincloth is tied, the thighs and knees remain uncovered; according to the Hanafis these are part of the ‘awra and covering them is necessary. One who uncovers them openly is a fasiq. It is necessary for this ‘alim to avoid this and to repent.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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