Many Sunnis do not use a Turbah primarily because they view it as an innovation.
According to many Sunnis, the use of a Turbah (a clay tablet or similar item used for prostration) is considered bid'ah (بدعة), meaning an innovation in religious practice that was not present during the time of the Prophet Muhammad or his companions.
Sunni Views on Turbah Usage
The core reason cited by many Sunnis for rejecting the Turbah is based on historical practice. As noted in Sunni views:
- Absence in Prophetic Practice: According to them, neither Muhammad nor his companions ever carried a clay tablet or similar item on which to place their foreheads while in prostration.
This absence in the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions is the basis for the classification of using a Turbah as an innovation by many within the Sunni tradition. They believe that religious practices should adhere to the established Sunnah (tradition) of the Prophet and the early Muslim community.
Key Points Summarized
Here's a breakdown of the Sunni perspective on not using a Turbah:
- Classification as Bid'ah: Many Sunnis consider the use of a Turbah during prayer to be a religious innovation (bid'ah).
- Lack of Historical Precedent: Their reasoning is based on the belief that this practice was not observed by the Prophet Muhammad or his companions.
- Adherence to Sunnah: Sunni practice generally emphasizes adhering to the established Sunnah, which they interpret as praying directly on the surface of the earth or a prayer mat without a separate clay tablet for prostration.
In summary, the rejection of the Turbah by many Sunnis stems from a theological interpretation that views its use as an innovation not supported by the practice of the earliest Muslim community.
