In Islam, there are specific timeframes within which each of the five daily prayers (Salah) must be performed. These timeframes are determined based on the position of the sun and are divided into five distinct periods:
1. Fajr (Dawn): This prayer time begins at the first light of dawn and ends just before sunrise (approximately 20 minutes before sunrise). It is recommended to perform the Fajr prayer during the early part of this period.
2. Dhuhr (Noon): The Dhuhr prayer time begins immediately after the sun has passed its zenith (highest point) and starts declining towards the west. It ends when the shadow of an object becomes equal to its length, just before the time of Asr prayer.
3. Asr (Afternoon): The Asr prayer time begins when the shadow of an object becomes equal to its length and ends just before sunset. It is recommended to perform the Asr prayer during the early part of this period.
4. Maghrib (Sunset): The Maghrib prayer time begins immediately after sunset and ends when the twilight disappears (approximately 15-20 minutes after sunset). It is recommended to perform the Maghrib prayer as soon as possible after sunset.
5. Isha (Night): The Isha prayer time begins after the twilight disappears and lasts until the middle of the night (approximately halfway between sunset and dawn). It is recommended to perform the Isha prayer before midnight, although it can be performed until the beginning of Fajr prayer.
There are few hours during the day when Performing Salah is prohibited or disapproved. They are as follows:
1. After Fajr until the sun rises completely
It is prohibited to pray at the time when sun is rising or coming up from the horizon until the sun rises completely. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said : " There is no prayer after the morning prayer until the sun rises ( Bukhari and Muslim).
2. When the sun is at the centre of the sky
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: " Do not pray when the sun is rising or when it's setting for verily the shaytan stands in front of the sun and he allows the sun to rise from its horns to glorify him self. (Sahih Muslim ,1925).
Also one of the reasons is that it may lead others to believe that we are worshipping the sun.
3. After Asr until sunset
It is prohibited to pray after Asr Salah until the sun set ( until the sun sets completely).
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: " When the lower part of the sun is set then delay praying until it is fully set." (Bukhari).
It's important for Muslims to observe these specific timeframes and perform their prayers within the designated periods. Delaying prayers beyond their prescribed times without a valid reason is considered sinful in Islam. However, if one misses a prayer due to unavoidable circumstances (such as forgetfulness or oversleeping), they should perform it as soon as they remember or wake up.
