Q 3: I live near the Masjid (mosque) but I cannot pray there and I have two sons. Is it permissible for them to pray with me, or should they go to pray in the Masjid and leave me to pray alone?

A: If you are unable to go and pray in the Masjid, you are excused in praying at home and you will receive the same reward of offering the congregational Salah (prayer). The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "When a servant falls ill or travels, they will get the same reward of the good deeds they used to do when they were at home and in good health." (Related by Al-Bukhari in his "Sahih" Book of authentic Hadith). As for your two sons, they have to (Part No. 8; Page No. 64) pray at the Masjid in congregation with other Muslims. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Anyone who hears the call (to prayer; Adhan) and does not come to it, no prayer will be recorded for them except with an excuse." (Related by Ibn Majah, Al-Daraqutny, Ibn Hibban and Al-Hakim with an authentic Sanad, chain of narrators). It was said to Ibn `Abbas, "What is a valid excuse?" He said, "Fear or an illness."May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.