as a coordination with his statement, “that he combine.” It may also be read in the nominative as the beginning of a new sentence. The evidence for this is that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, “stood upon his camel, riding it, raising his hands in supplication to Allah. When the reins fell, he took them with one hand while keeping the other raised.” (1)

What is meant by standing is remaining there, not standing on one’s feet. Thus, one who is sitting is considered to be standing; and standing may mean remaining still rather than being upright. It is well known that one riding a camel is seated upon it, not standing on it.

Is it better to stand while mounted, or to stand unmounted?

Some scholars said: It is better to stand while mounted, because that was what the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, did. On this basis, it would be sunnah for us, after praying Zuhr and Asr combined in advance, to remain in vehicles from then until sunset, riding in them until departure, since this constitutes riding.

Others said: It is better for him to be on foot rather than mounted. What should be said is that he should do what is more beneficial for his heart, and this differs from person to person. Remaining on one’s mount—which nowadays is a car—may cause him to be distracted and to distract others. Being alone somewhere beneath a tree, or in any place he chooses, may be better and more conducive to humility and devotion. In such a case, we say: it is better not to remain in the car. Yet being in the car may be more conducive to humility and involve fewer distractions for another person, because he is prepared and ready. In such a case, we say: consider what is more beneficial for your heart.