The ruling on praying in shoes in carpeted mosques

Question:
This questioner, Khalid, asks about the ruling on praying in shoes. How can one act upon this Sunnah if it was reported, especially since we pray in large, carpeted, and clean mosques? Will the one who prays in these shoes be rewarded?

Answer:
The default is that praying in shoes is recommended and prescribed, based on the command of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) to do so, in order to differ from the Jews. However, if this leads to concerns, as the questioner mentioned, the condition of the mosques has changed from what it was before. Previously, the mosques were earthen, so walking in them with shoes did not affect them. But now, the mosques are paved and carpeted, so if people enter them with shoes, they become soiled. This is a disrespect to the mosque. Therefore, one should avoid praying in shoes in this situation, because it leads to concerns. Also, people are not accustomed to this, so it may cause confusion and surprise. The default is that it is recommended, not obligatory. Yes.

The presenter:
May Allah reward you