Whether it is permissible for a traveler to join a congregation offering the Maghrib Prayer with the intention of offering the `Isha' Prayer while sho

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Q 1: If I am travelling and I am about to offer ‘Isha’ (Night) Prayer shortened to two Rak‘ahs (units of Prayer) when I find a group of people offering Maghrib (Sunset) Prayer; do I have to join them directly from the first Rak‘ah (unit of Prayer), then after the first Tashahhud (a recitation in the sitting position in the second/ last unit of Prayer) when the Imam stands up to offer the third Rak‘ah I should offer Taslim (salutation of peace ending the Prayer)? (Part No. 6; Page No. 435) Or do I have to wait until the Imam (the one who leads congregational Prayer) offers Taslim so that I offer it with him? Or do I have to join the congregation in the second and third Rak‘ahs then make Taslim with the Imam? Which option is correct?

A: It is permissible for you to offer ‘Isha’ Prayer alone as two Rak‘ahs as long as you are travelling. However, if you are resident, you may join the congregational Maghrib Prayer with the intention of praying ‘Isha’ and complete the number of Rak‘ahs of ‘Isha’ (perform the fourth Rak‘ah) once the Imam makes Taslim.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.