Thoughts of the houris during prayer

Question

When Zayd performs the prayer, he learns through the imam’s recitation (qira’a) of the mention of the houris, and because of this his mind becomes scattered; likewise, sometimes the thought of his wife also comes to him — until the whole prayer is over. And these images arise without intention?

Answer

If in the prayer images of one’s wife and of the houris arise involuntarily and distraction sets in, and after that Zayd does not take pleasure in this image and does not become absorbed in these thoughts, but rather, driving these thoughts away, strives to keep his attention turned to the prayer, then Zayd will not be sinful.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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