Responsa על ברכות 68:8
Teshuvot Maharam
Q. I placed a carpet on the stone floor in front of the ark of our synagogue, for, whenever the cantor would fall on his face in prayer, it would appear as if he were bowing (in adoration) to the stones. Was my act justified?
A. You have done a meritorious act. For bowing on a stone floor even without extending the arms and legs, is forbidden by Rabbinic enactment. Although many venerable men are very careful and turn sideways instead of prostrating themselves (cf. Ber. 34b), yet many ignorant cantors actually fall on their faces in prayer. If it will be within my power, I shall abolish this practice. I shall proceed cautiously, however, in order not to create undue disturbance.
SOURCES: Am I, 94; cf. Mord. Meg. 807.
A. You have done a meritorious act. For bowing on a stone floor even without extending the arms and legs, is forbidden by Rabbinic enactment. Although many venerable men are very careful and turn sideways instead of prostrating themselves (cf. Ber. 34b), yet many ignorant cantors actually fall on their faces in prayer. If it will be within my power, I shall abolish this practice. I shall proceed cautiously, however, in order not to create undue disturbance.
SOURCES: Am I, 94; cf. Mord. Meg. 807.
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