Aliyah H. A. The Ruling on Combining Prayers in Newly Arising Issues: A Jurisprudential Study

Abstract

This research examines the Islamic legal ruling on combining obligatory prayers in emergency situations, through a comparative study of the four schools of Islamic jurisprudence. It focuses on contemporary applications such as health, educational, security, and environmental circumstances, analyzing the relevant legal evidence, the objectives of Islamic law, and the criteria for granting such permission. The study concludes that combining prayers is a valid dispensation, subject to specific conditions, that prioritizes ease and the removal of hardship. It is not a general rule, but rather a matter of necessity and exceptional circumstances deemed valid by Islamic law.

Through a review of contemporary fatwas, rulings of Islamic jurisprudence councils, and real-life examples from both Muslim and non-Muslim societies, it becomes clear that the jurisprudence of combining prayers effectively contributes to enhancing prayer performance, preventing its neglect, and strengthening the commitment of those observing the faith in challenging environments. This clearly demonstrates the universality of Islamic law and its capacity to adapt to every situation and era.  However, this legal dispensation should not be used as a pretext for negligence or complacency. Rather, it is linked to need and necessity only, and must be exercised within strict guidelines and with religious awareness, lest it become an excuse for shortcomings rather than an act of worship. Modern fatwas have unanimously agreed on this point, thus reinforcing the jurisprudence of moderation and discipline.