The Presidency of Religious Affairs (DİB), also known as Diyanet, issued a notice to religious officials throughout the country, stating that healthy people observing the daily five-time prayer must remain standing. The notice comes after a series of photos showing rows of chairs and benches placed in mosques, which received criticism from many for resembling churches.
According to reports, Diyanet said that those who are unable to observe the five-time prayers in a standing position due to health reasons can do so by crossing one's legs, or by extending his/her legs towards the qibla while sitting on the floor, rather than sitting on a chair or a bench.
Diyanet also noted that chairs put in rows in mosques not only look unpleasant, but also cause arguments between the congregation and does not suit the culture of the mosques.
Commenting on the issue, theologian Osman Ünlü said that it Islamically not permissible to pray on chairs and stools and that this practice contradicts Islamic jurisprudence. He added that people have started bringing their own chairs and stools into mosques, almost resembling cafes.
