Ruling on saying: (Ameen) after al-Fatihah

Question:
The listener (A. A. R.) sent a message containing two questions. In his first question, he asks: Is the word *Ameen* after reciting al-Fatihah in prayer obligatory, or is it a recommended practice? And if the one praying intentionally leaves it out, is his prayer invalid? What is the ruling if he forgets it? May Allah reward you with good.

Answer:
The word *Ameen* is a recommended practice (sunnah) for the imam, the one praying alone, and the congregation. It is a recommended practice after al-Fatihah, and likewise outside of prayer, if one recites al-Fatihah, he says: *Ameen*; because it contains [al-Fatihah:6] a supplication, so he affirms it afterwards. It is not obligatory. If he leaves it out, he does not have to prostrate, his prayer is valid, and he owes nothing. If the imam, the followers, or the one praying alone leaves it out, he owes nothing, and praise be to Allah. Yes.

The presenter: May Allah reward you with good. So, there is no distinction between intentional omission and forgetfulness in this matter?

The Shaykh: Yes, it is a recommended practice to do it. This is a recommended practice, so one does not intentionally leave it out. It is a recommended practice to do it, but if he forgets it, he owes nothing. Yes.

The presenter: Praise be to Allah, may Allah reward you with good.