Title: Offering Naf'l (Supererogatory) Prayers in Sitting Position Question: We perform Naf'l while in a sitting position, while other prayers are performed by sitting & standing position. Please tell me why only Naf'l are performed in sitting position. Is it must to do so? Thanks M.ASLAM SAQI Answer: When a person stands in his prayers, this standing symbolizes the person's standing in the presence of God - the Ruler and the King of all that enjoys existence. I would, therefore, like a person to stand even while offering Naf'l (supererogatory) prayers, as it seems to be more in keeping with the spirit of the prayers. However, in case a person suffers from a problem, due to which it becomes difficult for him to stand, then he may offer his prayers (whether Naf'l or Fard ) sitting. Offering naf'l prayers while sitting is only an allowance given by the Muslim jurists. It is, however, not necessary to offer naf'l prayers while sitting. On the contrary, the part of the Sala'h called "Qiyaam" (which literally means 'to stand') should be offered in a standing position, in all our ritual prayers. I hope this helps. Regards, Moiz Amjad January 3, 2002