When does an imam’s Salah not count?
To what extent is the Salah dependent on the correct makharij? E.g. if an imam pronounces a ح as a ه, must the Salah be repeated?
Additionally what should one do if he arrives at a masjid or is doing wudhu etc and hears that the imam is reciting incorrectly? (Also where it may be possible to catch Salah elsewhere?)
Bismillahi Ta’ala
Walaikum Assalam Warahmatullah
Qur’an has been revealed in Arabic, and since it is from the wahi matlu (that revelation which is recited), that which is recited, it only behooves that consideration be given to the correct recital of Qur’an. From the mutaqadimeen (past aslaf) many have mentioned under the importance of reciting the Qur’an properly that major mistakes which could change the makharij (point of articulations) or affect the meaning of the words can render the Salah invalid.
While recitation out of salah will also be a source for deficiency if the ahkam and rules of Tajweed are not kept intact.
However, Muta’akhireen fuqaha have mentioned that there is scope in such mistakes which are generally difficult for non native Arab speakers to work around. That being said, it must be understood that one’s own intent and approach makes a big change. If one is so careless that while knowing that their recitation needs to be worked on and improved, one does not make an effort towards finding a teacher and correcting one’s recitation, then such an individual is certainly deserving of rebuke for his disregard towards Qur’an.
As for your question, the right of leading a congregation is more for someone who knows how to recite the Qur’an properly. So if one’s Imam does not carry out the recitation properly, one should undertake a wiser option and approach the management with request to appoint an Imam with better recitation that fulfills all the huqooq and rights of the Qur’anic Recitation.
It is counterproductive to approach the Imam yourself, or worse to address it in public. This will only cause commotion and fitna. Apply due diligence by approaching the right channels to rectify the situation. The Salah, however, will be valid as per the more accommodating stance of the Muta’akhireen.
Wallahu A’lam
And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Mufti Faisal al-Mahmudi