toward setting until it sets. But how does this apply to the period after the Fajr prayer until sunrise, and after the Asr prayer until the sun inclines toward setting? And how does it apply to the prohibition at midday, when the sun stands at its zenith?

We say: because shirk (associating partners with Allah) is a grave matter and its evil is widespread, the Lawgiver blocked every path leading to it, even from afar. If a person were permitted to pray after the morning prayer, he might continue praying until the sun rose—especially those who are eager to do good. Likewise, if he were permitted to pray after the Asr prayer, he might continue until the sun set.

As for the time when it stands at its zenith, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, explained its reason by saying that Hellfire is stoked (1); that is, its fuel is increased at this time. It is therefore fitting that people keep away from prayer at this time, because it is a time when the Fire is stoked. This, then, is its wisdom.

It is obligatory for the Muslim to differ from the polytheists in every respect, because he is a Muslim. Indeed, when the people lived in the might of Islam, Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, would not allow the protected non-Muslims to ride horses (2), because riding them was a mark of Islam’s strength and they were an instrument of war. If a protected non-Muslim rode a horse, he would acquire a sense of pride and dignity within himself. What is required of the Muslim is to humble the disbeliever. Allah, Exalted is He, says:

“O Prophet, strive against the disbelievers and the hypocrites, and be stern with them. Their refuge will be Hell—and wretched is the destination.” [al-Tahrim]

And he would prevent them from riding