The Legal Ruling on Exemption from Jumuʿah Prayer Due to Post-Fajr Travel According to Muḥammad ibn ʿAbd al-Raḥmān al-Ahdal (d. 1258 AH) and Muḥammad ibn al-Masāwī al-Ahdal (d. 1266 AH) "Comparative fiqh study"

Abstract

This study presents a comparative scholarly analysis of a nuanced juristic issue: the ruling on Friday prayer for one who initiates travel after the dawn of Friday. Does Friday prayer cease to be obligatory due to the traveler's status, or is the individual still required to perform it? The research focuses on identifying the opinion that is most consistent with sound legal reasoning.

The issue is examined through a discussion of two opinions from Yemeni scholars of the Ahdal family: Sayyid Muhammad ibn ʿAbd al-Rahman al-Ahdal and Sayyid Muhammad ibn al-Masawi al-Ahdal. Their respective positions are analyzed based on both transmitted (naqli) and rational (ʿaqli) evidences, following a comparative analytical methodology. The importance of the study lies in the frequent occurrence of such travel in contemporary life, necessitating precise clarification.

The research is divided into two main sections: the first explores key definitions and concepts; the second examines the juristic disagreement and analyzes both views.

The study concludes that both opinions have merit, yet it favors the view of Muhammad ibn ʿAbd al-Rahman, who permits a traveler to forgo Friday prayer if he departs after dawn intending to pray en route, aligning with the legal maxim “Hardship brings ease”, and with the position of the majority of scholars.