Salah behind someone who invokes other than Allah

Q: I had previously asked you about the ruling on the validity of praying behind an Imam (leader of congregational Prayer) who commits Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) while claiming to be a Muslim, such as those who offer sacrifices to Awliya’ (pious people), invoke them, make vows to them, circumambulate around their graves, set out to visit them and so on. (Part No. 1; Page No. 757) We are frequently asked about this issue during our travels to some Muslim countries, and it was repeatedly posed by Ansar (Supporters) of Sunnah in Sudan when we went there earlier this year. You recommended that we send you this question in writing, to be viewed by the Ifta’ Committee and the answer be discussed in detail and then published. Again, I am reminding Your Eminence, and waiting for your written reply in detail. May Allah reward you the best for your efforts.

A: If a person makes vows or offers sacrifices to other than Allah; or invokes other than Allah for something beyond normal means, such as healing the sick or having progeny; or invokes people who are absent to relieve a distress, or someone dead to repel harm; circumambulates graves; set out on a special journey to them; or seeks the help of idols and similar objects, they are considered Mushriks (those who associate others with Allah in worship), guilty of major Shirk. Their own Salah (prayer) is invalid. Thus, it is not permissible to appoint such a person as an Imam to lead others in prayer or to pray behind him for his committing of Shirk.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.