Lying face down is discouraged as it is believed to resemble non-Muslim behavior.

Lying Face Down: A Forbidden Sleeping Posture

Details

In certain Islamic communities and other traditional cultures, lying down flat on one’s stomach—face down—is considered inappropriate, particularly in the context of prayer, rest, or sleep. It is thought that this posture imitates those who are considered non-believers or is a disrespectful or unspiritual act. Some interpretations are based on Islamic hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), such as one that mentions disfavor toward lying on one’s belly. As a result, elders or parents may advise children and others not to adopt this position while sleeping or sitting, encouraging them instead to sleep on their side or back. The intention behind this belief is both spiritual discipline and promoting physical awareness of one’s state of rest.

Historical Context

This belief may trace its roots to early Islamic teachings, where specific postures during prayer and rest were differentiated between appropriate (e.g., on the right side) and discouraged (e.g., lying face down). A hadith narrates that the Prophet Muhammad saw a man lying on his stomach and instructed him to change his position, saying it was the way of the people of Hell. These teachings were passed down through oral tradition and became norms in many Muslim-majority societies. Additionally, within Bedouin and Arab tribal customs, posture indicated not only physical rest but also social and spiritual alignment. Over time, this belief evolved into a cultural prohibition, blending religious injunctions with societal customs of modesty and conformity.

Modern Relevance

In modern times, the superstition of not lying face down persists in many Muslim communities across the Middle East, South Asia, and parts of Africa. Religious scholars continue to discuss the topic in sermons and online forums, often citing hadiths as justification. Among conservative families, especially in rural or traditional settings, children may still be corrected when adopting this position. Additionally, Islamic influencers on social media platforms share reminders to avoid this posture in both spiritual and health-based reasoning. While it lacks widespread medical support, the belief continues to guide household behavior. However, in urban or secular contexts, the superstition has less influence and may simply be regarded as a traditional custom rather than a strong rule.

Sources

Sahih Hadith, Sunan Abi Dawud, Book 43, Hadith 5038

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