Q 2:
Is it obligatory to say the Takbirat-ul-Ihram (saying: "Allahu Akbar [Allah is the Greatest]" upon starting Prayer) loudly or it is sufficient to say it subvocally?
A:
Takbirat-ul-Ihram is one of the pillars of Salah. The Ma'mums (people being led by an Imam in Prayer) should not say Takbir (saying: "Allahu Akbar [Allah is the Greatest]") out loud. They should say it quietly to themselves, moving their lips while saying it. The same applies to a Munfarid (person offering Prayer individually). As for the Imam, he should say Takbir and Tasmi` (saying: "Sami`a Allahu liman hamidah [Allah listens to those who praise Him]")," when standing after Ruku`) loudly in all the Salahs (Prayers) so that the Ma'mums can hear him.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.