The Ruling on Praying Behind Someone Whose Status Is Unknown

Question:
The listener (A. M. A.) from Khartoum also asks and says: Is the prayer valid behind someone whose status we do not know?

Answer:
Yes, if his outward appearance is that of a Muslim, and he leads the Muslims in prayer, then the prayer behind him is valid until it becomes clear from him what indicates that he is a disbeliever behind whom the prayer is not valid. Even if it becomes clear that he is an open sinner, the prayer behind an open sinner is valid according to the stronger of the two opinions of the scholars. However, once it becomes clear that he is a disbeliever, at that point one does not pray behind him, he is prevented from leading the prayer, and the prayer behind him is not valid. This applies to one who appears to be a hypocrite who insults the religion, mocks the religion, or insults the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him), or similar to that, which necessitates his apostasy from Islam. Or if it appears from him that he also worships the people of the graves, calls upon them for aid, makes vows to them, and similar to that, which indicates his apostasy and disbelief. We ask Allah for safety. Yes.

The presenter: O Allah, amen. May Allah reward you with good.