When traveling, many Muslims wonder whether they should start shortening the prayer (qasr) or complete it in its full form. The practice of shortening the prayer during travel is known as qasr, and it is a concession granted to travelers, making it easier for them to perform their religious duties while on the move. However, different schools of thought among Islamic scholars have varying views on whether shortening or completing the prayer is preferable in such circumstances.

The Scholarly Debate

Muslim scholars are not in full agreement on this issue, and there are different interpretations based on the principles of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh). However, the most widely accepted view among the majority of scholars is that shortening the prayer is the better option for a traveler, as it aligns with the Sunnah (the practice) of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions. The Prophet and the early caliphs were known to shorten their prayers during travel, setting a precedent for Muslims to follow.

At the same time, some scholars allow for the option of completing the prayer while traveling, though they generally consider shortening the prayer to be the more appropriate and encouraged practice.

The Views of Different Schools of Thought

  1. Shafi’i and Hanbali Views: In the Shafi’i and Hanbali schools of thought, shortening the prayer is considered better for a traveler, especially if the journey lasts for three days or more. The Shafi’i scholars emphasize that shortening the prayer aligns with the Prophet’s practice, and doing so avoids the controversy over whether it is obligatory. In contrast, completing the prayer during travel is seen as not following the Sunnah, though it is permitted.
  2. Maliki View: The Maliki school also acknowledges the permissibility of shortening the prayer. However, they state that the original ruling for the prayer is its completion, and shortening is an exception or a legal concession (rukhsah). This view aligns with a hadith in which the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is reported to have said that shortening the prayer is a form of charity from Allah to ease the burden of travel for believers.
  3. Hanafi View: The Hanafi school of thought maintains that shortening the prayer while traveling is the original and prescribed practice. According to Hanafi scholars, prayer was initially composed of two rak‘ahs (units of prayer) for both residents and travelers. The addition of two more rak‘ahs for residents was a later development. Therefore, they argue that travelers should always pray the two rak‘ahs and not complete the full prayer, as completing it would go against the Sunnah.

Permissibility of Completing the Prayer

While the majority view is that shortening the prayer is preferable for travelers, it is still permitted to complete the prayer. Some scholars, including Imam Ibn Taymiyah, acknowledge the validity of completing the prayer during travel, though they suggest that this practice is less preferable than shortening. This is based on the idea that the traveler is not bound by the same obligations as a resident, and the act of shortening the prayer serves to ease their journey.

In specific cases, such as when a traveler is praying behind a resident imam, the preponderant opinion is that the traveler should complete the prayer. This is because the resident imam is not allowed to shorten the prayer, and it would be inconsistent for a traveler to pray differently when following a resident imam.

The Ruling for Different Types of Travelers

For travelers who are on short trips, the permissibility to either shorten or complete the prayer applies. However, for long-term travelers, such as those on extended journeys or those who travel frequently, shortening the prayer is considered better as it is more aligned with the Sunnah and avoids unnecessary controversy.

One exceptional case discussed by scholars involves people who are in continuous travel, such as those working on ships or in circumstances that keep them away from a permanent home. In such cases, scholars recommend completing the prayer to avoid debate over the necessity of shortening the prayer.

Conclusion: What is the Better Choice for a Traveler?

In conclusion, the preferred choice for a traveler, based on the majority of scholars, is to shorten the prayer. This practice reflects the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions. However, completing the prayer remains permissible, and travelers are not in violation of Islamic law if they choose to do so. The key is to ensure that one follows the practice that best aligns with their situation while maintaining respect for the scholarly opinions on the matter. Whether shortening or completing the prayer, the most important aspect is that the traveler fulfills their religious obligations with sincerity and devotion.