There is no explicit Islamic ruling that states it is haram (forbidden) to pray with long nails. However, Islamic scholars generally advise against having long nails while praying.
Here's why:
- Hygiene: Long nails can harbor dirt and germs, making it difficult to perform ablution (wudu) properly. This can invalidate the prayer.
- Impurity: Some scholars believe that long nails can collect impurities, which can also invalidate the prayer.
- Sunnah: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is reported to have kept his nails trimmed short. This is considered a Sunnah (recommended practice) in Islam.
While it is not strictly forbidden to pray with long nails, keeping them trimmed short is a recommended practice for hygiene, purity, and following the Sunnah.