Allah has prescribed the prayer through the word of your Prophet (ﷺ) as four rak'ahs when resident, two when travelling, and one when danger is present.
The Book of Prayer - Travellers
Sahih Muslim 687 a
Textual Analysis
This hadith establishes the divine legislation (farḍ) of prayer variations based on circumstance, demonstrating Allah's mercy in facilitating worship.
The phrasing "prescribed through the word of your Prophet" indicates these rulings were revealed to Muhammad (ﷺ) and constitute authentic Sunnah.
Juridical Rulings
Four rak'ahs represent the complete prayer for resident believers, fulfilling the full obligation.
Two rak'ahs during travel reflect Allah's concession (rukḥṣah), easing the burden upon the journeyer while maintaining worship's essence.
One rak'ah in danger circumstances demonstrates the principle of necessity (ḍarūrah), preserving prayer even in extreme conditions.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam al-Nawawi states this hadith contains comprehensive rulings for prayer under different conditions, showing Islamic law's adaptability.
Ibn Ḥajar notes the progression from four to two to one rak'ah illustrates the principle of gradual reduction according to necessity while maintaining the prayer's core obligation.
Scholars agree these variations demonstrate Islam's balanced approach between maintaining religious duties and recognizing human circumstances.