Hadith Text & Reference

"Whoever catches up with one Rak'ah of 'Asr prayer before the sun sets, or catches up with one Rak'ah of Fajr before the sun rises, has caught it."

Source: Sunan an-Nasa'i 515 | The Book of the Times (of Prayer)

Meaning & Significance

This hadith establishes a fundamental principle in Islamic jurisprudence regarding the validity of prayers performed at the very end of their prescribed times. Catching even a single rak'ah within the prayer time suffices to consider the entire prayer as having been performed on time.

The wisdom behind this ruling demonstrates Allah's mercy, making it easier for Muslims to fulfill their obligations despite challenging circumstances that may cause delay.

Juridical Explanation

For 'Asr prayer: If one manages to complete at least one full rak'ah (including the first prostration) before sunset begins, then the entire 'Asr prayer is considered valid even if completed after sunset.

For Fajr prayer: If one completes at least one rak'ah before the first appearance of the sun's upper limb (sunrise), the entire Fajr prayer is considered valid even if finished after sunrise.

The remaining rak'ahs must be completed, but the prayer is recorded as having been performed within its proper time.

Practical Application

This ruling provides relief for those who encounter unexpected delays or emergencies. However, scholars emphasize that this should not encourage habitual delay of prayers, as performing prayers at their earliest preferred time remains superior.

The determination of sunset and sunrise should be based on reliable astronomical calculations or visual confirmation, not mere estimation.