Q: I know some people who sleep through Zhuhr (Noon) and `Asr (Afternoon) Prayers during Ramadan, because they do not wake up until 6:30 pm, just before the time for Maghrib (Sunset) Prayer. They do this because they stay awake all night. What is the ruling on their Sawm (Fast) and is it permissible for them to perform these Salahs (Prayers) when they wake up or before the `Isha' (Night) Prayer?

(Part No. 6; Page No. 148)  A: Salah is the second Pillar of Islam and one of the evident rites of the Din (religion). It is not permissible for anyone to sleep through the prescribed Salahs, such as Zhuhr or `Asr Prayer. Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) orders the performance of the Salahs in their due times, especially the `Asr Prayer. Allah says, Guard strictly (five obligatory) As-Salawât (the prayers) especially the middle Salât (i.e. the best prayer – ‘Asr). It was also authentically reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, Anyone who performs the Two Cool Salahs will enter Paradise." The two Salahs at the cool times are the Fajr (Dawn) and `Asr Prayers. There is also a severe warning to those who delay the performance of the `Asr Prayer until after its time. It was authentically reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, Anyone who misses the `Asr Prayer (intentionally), it is as if they have lost their family and wealth. The Prophet (peace be upon him) also said, If anyone misses the `Asr Prayer (intentionally) their deeds will be in vain. It is obligatory on anyone who sleeps through a Salah to perform it directly upon waking. They should use any means they can to wake themselves up to perform the Zhuhr and `Asr Prayers during their due times; it is not permissible to be negligent about this. As for their Sawm, sleeping during the day in Ramadan does not affect Sawm; their Sawm will be valid. However, anyone who delays a Salah from its due time has committed a sin, if they do not try to find a way that will help them to wake up to perform it in its due time. (Part No. 6; Page No. 149) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.