What parts of the day are Muslims prohibited from performing salah (prayers)?

In a Nutshell: Muslims are prohibited from performing the five obligatory daily prayers (Fard Salah) during specific times of the day: sunrise, zenith (when the sun is directly overhead) and sunset. There's also a prohibition on performing obligatory prayers between the dawn prayer (Fajr) and sunrise and between the afternoon prayer (Asr) and sunset. Voluntary prayers can still be offered during these periods. Table of Contents Introduction Background and Context Evidences When Muslims Are Prohibited from Performing Salah Misconceptions about Forbidden Prayer Times FAQs Conclusion Introduction Salah (prayer) is one of the most important pillars of Islam. Muslims are obligated to perform five daily prayers at designated times throughout the day. These designated prayer times hold great significance, fostering discipline, reminding believers of Allah (swt) throughout the day and creating a sense of community through shared rituals. Evidences The Quran emphasizes the importance of observing prayer times. Allah (swt) says: Establish worship [at] the decline of the sun until the darkness of the night and [at] the break of dawn. And recite the Quran at dawn, for indeed, the recitation of dawn is ever witnessed. (Quran 17:78) This verse highlights the importance of praying throughout the day, including at dawn and dusk, which are periods when obligatory prayers are prohibited. Several hadiths from Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) clearly specify the forbidden times for prayer. The Prophet (pbuh) forbade prayer when the sun is rising, until it rises completely and when it is setting, until it sets completely. (Bukhari 582) Scholars' Opinions: Islamic scholars across different Madhhabs (schools of thought) unanimously agree on the prohibition of obligatory prayers during the designated times. While there may be slight variations in determining the precise timings based on location and astronomical phenomena, the core principle remains consistent. When Muslims Are Prohibited from Performing Salah The prohibition on praying during sunrise, zenith (known as Zawal in Arabic) and sunset stems from several reasons: Distinguishing from Sun Worship: In pre-Islamic Arabia, sun worship was prevalent. This prohibition helps differentiate Islamic prayer from practices of the past. Respect for the Majesty of Allah (swt): These specific times are awe-inspiring moments when the power and majesty of Allah's (swt) creation are most evident. Focusing on worldly concerns like prayer during these times might detract from proper contemplation. Practical Considerations: Determining the beginning and end of prayer times is easier when the sun is at its highest point (Zawal) or when the horizon is clearly visible (sunrise and sunset). It's important to distinguish between obligatory and voluntary prayers during these prohibited times. While obligatory prayers are forbidden, voluntary prayers can still be offered. This distinction allows believers to engage in optional acts of worship while adhering to the core rulings. Determining the precise timings of these periods can vary based on location and the position of the sun. Muslims typically rely on local mosques or reputable Islamic calendars to establish accurate prayer times. Misconceptions about Forbidden Prayer Times Here are some common misconceptions about forbidden prayer times that need to be addressed: All prayers are forbidden: Only the five daily obligatory prayers are forbidden during the specified times. Voluntary prayers like Tahajjud, Sunnah, or Nafl can still be performed. Exact timings are universal: The precise start and end times of the forbidden periods vary depending on geographic location and time of year, hence using local prayer timetables is important. Limits Opportunities to Pray: Islam offers flexibility for those in situations where adhering to specific times is difficult. There are allowances for combining prayers or making up missed prayers in extenuating circumstances. Challenges in Regions with Long Twilight: Muslims in regions with long twilight periods may face difficulty in determining the exact end of sunrise or start of sunset. Islamic scholars have devised solutions for calculation in such scenarios. FAQs about Forbidden Prayer Times Can I make up missed prayers if I miss them due to forbidden times?Yes, you can make up the obligatory prayers missed due to the forbidden times. How are prayer times calculated while traveling?You should try to follow the prayer timings of the place you are traveling to. However, if this is not possible, you may follow the prayer times of your hometown or use a reliable resource for determining the timings. Conclusion Understanding the prohibition of obligatory prayers during specific times of the day is essential for every Muslim. The prohibition stems from historical context, theological emphasis and practical considerations. While adhering to these rulings is vital, Islam does offer flexibility for those in unforeseen circumstances where specific timings may be challenging. References Al-Asqalani, Ibn Hajar. Fath al-Bari. Al-Nawawi, Yahya ibn Sharaf . Sharh Sahih Muslim Az-Zuhayli, Wahbah. Al-Fiqh al-Islami wa Adillatuhu.