Q: We went on an academic journey to Jeddah. We left Riyadh at 8:00 P.M., after the time that the `Isha' (Night) Prayer was due. We reached the hotel in Jeddah around 11:00 P.M. We performed four Rak`ahs (units of Prayer) for the Isha' Prayer and then after a day we made the intention to perform `Umrah (lesser pilgrimage) to Makkah. We then entered Ihram (the ritual state for Hajj and `Umrah) in Jeddah and went to perform `Umrah. Our questions are:1. Should we have shortened the `Isha' Prayer for that night?2. What is the ruling on us assuming Ihram from Jeddah?

A: Firstly: Performing four Rak`ahs for `Isha' Prayer was valid, but it would have been better to offer two Rak`ahs, if your intention was to stay in Jeddah for four days or less. (Part No. 8; Page No. 108) Secondly: If you traveled to perform `Umrah and entered Ihram for it from Jeddah, you made a mistake. It is obligatory to enter Ihram from the Miqat (sites for entering the ritual state for Hajj and `Umrah) that you pass, whether by land, sea, or air. You should all therefore perform Tawbah (repentance to Allah) and each of you has to offer a sheep, or seven of you share in offering a cow or a camel as a Fidyah (ransom). The meat should then be distributed among the poor of the sanctuary. However, if you did not travel to make `Umrah, but for another purpose, and then when you were in Jeddah you just made the intention to perform `Umrah and entered into Ihram there, then there is no harm in what you did.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.