Combining Maghrib and `Isha' Salahs if one is hindered from going to the Masjid at the time of `Isha'

415

Q: The Israeli occupation imposed an all-night curfew on the residents of the occupied land of Palestine. Since the due time of `Isha' (Night) Prayer starts at nearly half past nine at night, Muslims are unable to go out to Masjids (mosques) to offer it in congregation. Different viewpoints have been given in reply to the following question: Is it permissible to pray `Isha and Maghrib together at the time of the latter? Or does each prayer have to be offered at its appointed time? We would like to inform you that the Adhan (call to prayer) of Maghrib starts ten minutes before eight o'clock. Those who make it permissible to combine Maghrib and `Isha' at one time finish offering them at nearly quarter past eight.I hope that you will issue a fatwa which I can spread among the people there in order to settle the disputed opinions and unite the word of Muslims. I appreciate your co-operation.

A: It is not permissible for them to pray `Isha' and Maghrib together at the time of the latter. They have to pray Maghrib at the Masjid (mosque) and `Isha' at home as long as they (Part No. 8; Page No. 141) are unable to go to the Masjid to pray `Isha' in congregation. There is no sin on them for praying at home. Allah (Exalted be He) says: So keep your duty to Allâh and fear Him as much as you can May Allah assist us in fulfilling our duties and in supporting His believing party.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and Companions.