The Egyptian Radio and Television Union's program, "Bريد الإسلام" (Islamic Mail), received a query from a listener who travels frequently for work. He inquired whether he could shorten and combine his prayers throughout his journey or if he would be considered a resident. The program, presented by Fouad Hassan, addresses various Islamic questions.
Dr. Moaz Shalaby, a member of the Azhar Global Fatwa Center and a lecturer at Al-Azhar University, responded to the query. He stated that Islamic law allows for the shortening of prayers during travel, citing a Quranic verse: "And when you travel in the land, there is no blame upon you for shortening the prayer." Dr. Shalaby also referenced the Prophet Muhammad's practice of shortening prayers during his travels.
Dr. Shalaby emphasized the importance of distinguishing between shortening and combining prayers. Shortening prayers is permitted for travelers, while combining prayers is allowed for those who face hardship during travel or residence. He outlined the conditions for shortening prayers, which include traveling a distance of approximately 81 kilometers or more, intending to travel, and not planning to reside for more than four days.
According to Dr. Shalaby, if a person travels to a destination and intends to stay for less than four days, they can shorten their prayers. Additionally, if a person does not know how long they will stay at their destination and does not plan to reside for more than four days, they can continue to shorten their prayers. However, if they intend to stay for four days or more, they are considered residents and must perform their prayers in full.
The program also highlighted that repeated travel does not prevent a person from taking advantage of the concession to shorten and combine prayers, as long as the conditions are met. Dr. Shalaby advised the listener that if his travel to work exceeds 81 kilometers and he does not intend to stay for more than four days, he can shorten and combine his prayers.
In a related news item, several development projects were launched in the Buhairah Governorate as part of the "Hayat Karima" (Decent Life) initiative. These projects aim to improve the quality of life for residents in rural areas.
The "Bريد الإسلام" program is broadcast on the Quran Radio station and covers various topics related to Islamic law and daily life. The program provides guidance and answers questions from listeners on matters such as prayer, fasting, and family issues.
Key points
- Dr. Moaz Shalaby outlines conditions for shortening prayers during travel.
- Repeated travel does not prevent concession to shorten prayers.
- Combining prayers is allowed for hardship during travel or residence.
