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234 questions answered by Sh. Mustafa Umar. Search in your own words or pick a topic.
Should I pray salat ut-tasbih (the special tasbih prayer)?
It is better to not pray salat ut-tasbih because it is not based on authentic sources and most early scholars ignored it. If this practice had even a moderate basis, at least one of the four imams would have mentioned it is recommended and there would be at least one authentic report about it, since it claims to have so much virtue.
Can I shorten and combine prayers when traveling? What is the minimum distance? When can I start? How long can I do that for?
You can, and should, shorten all four unit prayers (Zuhr, Asr, and Isha) to two units when you travel. You can, but it is optional, to combine Zuhr and Asr prayer by praying them at one time rather than two separate times. The same can be done for Maghrib and Isha prayer. It is better not to combine when you are at a resting location (like a hotel or camp site). The distance for travel must be at least about 50 miles, but if you commute that distance daily then you are not a traveler. You can begin shortening your prayers once you have left your city and you intend to travel to a distant place. You can keep shortening prayers if you plan to stay less than fifteen days in one location.
Can I combine prayers if it is raining?
No, because there are several conditions required even for the scholars who allow this practice, and they are usually not met by people who live in modern cities with paved roads and cars.
Do I have to cover my feet (if I am a woman) during prayer?
No.
Can I organize a qiyam program where everyone prays at night in a group at the mosque?
It is good to have lectures and other activities at the mosque but recommended to not specifically organize a night prayer in a large group.
Can I pray inside my car?
Standing is a requirement of prayer. It cannot be skipped without an excuse such as having an injury where you cannot stand. Facing in the direction of Makkah is also a requirement of prayer and cannot be skipped without some legitimate excuse such as being cramped in an airplane. Therefore, sitting in a car for one of the five mandated prayers is not allowed, and you must get out of the car and pray standing while facing towards Makkah. It is allowed pray voluntary prayers in a car without having to stand or face the direction of Makkah since the Prophet did this when traveling.
How do I pray if I haven’t memorized what should be said yet?
If you have not memorized what to say in the prayer then just remember Allah by saying “alhamdulillah” (“Praise to God”) three times in each position of prayer. You should not try to use a book or say it in another language, since it should be in Arabic.
What is the minimum number of people needed to perform the Friday [Jum’ah] Prayer?
There must be at least three adult males present, in addition to the imām (leader). If there are not enough people, the group will pray Zuhr prayer instead. Friday [Jum’ah] Prayer can be prayed in any mosque, building, or even in an open area.
These answers are general guidance. For your own situation, ask a scholar.