When do Muslims offer the Dhuhr prayer?
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- Dhuhr (noon) prayer is the second prayer of the day.
- Its time begins when the sun passes its zenith, and extends until when the shadow of an object is equal to its height.
- The zenith is when the sun is at its peak. The time of the zenith changes throughout the year.
- The normal practice of Prophet Muhammad was to pray Dhuhr when the sun was at its hottest. (Al- Bukhaari)
- However, if it is extremely hot and therefore difficult for people to come for prayer, then it is preferred to delay dhuhr until it is cooler, so that Muslims can pray with humility and tranquility.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“When it is hot, delay the prayer until it cools down, because the intense heat is from the fragrance of Hell.” [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]
Anas said:
“If it was extremely cold, the Prophet ﷺ would still pray early. But if it was extremely hot, he would wait until it cools down”. (Al-Bukhaari)
- However, it should not be delayed up until the end of its time.
Ulama Institute #1
Looking to learn Arabic or memorize the Quran.
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Discussion questions for comment
- When does Dhuhr start?
- What does ‘zenith’ mean?
- With regard to the best time to perform Dhuhr Salah, what is preferred when the weather is extremely hot?
