. - Sheikh Bin Baz

Should the Latecomer to Prayer recite the Opening Supplication and Al-Fatihah?

Question:

If a worshipper praying behind the Imam arrives at the end of the Imams reciting, but before bowing, should he begin the prayer by reciting the opening supplication: Subhanak Allaahumma wa bihamdika... etc., or should he join with the Imam and keep silent?
Answer:

If the one praying behind the Imam arrives at the time of the bowing, he must bow with him, without making the opening supplication or reciting anything; he should simply say: Allahu Akbar and bow. However, if time permits and the Imam is still standing, then he should make the opening supplication and recite Al-Fatihah - this is what is legislated for him: He should make the opening supplication first, then recite Al-Fatihah - even in the audible prayers - if the Imam observes a silence, doing so during the Imams silence. If there is no silence, then he should recite it in between the recitation of the Imam. After that, he should listen to the Imam. But if he comes late, arriving during the bowing, he should say: Allahu Akbar and join them, in which case, the requirement to recite Al-Fatihah is lifted from him, because he is excused.
Shaykh `Abdul-`Azeez Bin Baz
Fatawa Islamiyah Vol. 2 Page 173

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