from the time of the Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him—and perhaps even before that—people would hasten when they departed. There was some reason for hurrying at that time, since the paths were rugged and night had cast its darkness; thus, they were eager to make haste before time passed. Indeed, in the pre-Islamic era, they would depart before the sun had set. When the sun appeared upon the mountains like turbans upon men’s heads, they would set off in order to take advantage of the daylight.
Muzdalifah is the Sacred Site between ‘Arafah and Mina. It was given this name because it is the nearer of the two sacred sites to the Ka‘bah. It is called the Sacred Site in order to distinguish it from the non-sacred site, namely ‘Arafah. It is also known as Jam‘, because the people gather there. In the pre-Islamic era, all the pilgrims would gather only at Muzdalifah, since Quraysh would remain behind and not go to ‘Arafah. Tranquillity here means calmness and gentleness.
His statement, “and he hastens through the open space,” means that when he reaches an open stretch, he hastens, for this is gentler on his mount and enables him to arrive at Muzdalifah early. Part of the Prophet’s guidance, peace and blessings be upon him, when departing was that, whenever he found an open space, he would quicken his pace—that is, he would hasten. Likewise, when he came to a steep ascent, he would loosen the rein of his she-camel somewhat so that she could climb, for when a camel’s rein is pulled tight, climbing becomes difficult for her; but when it is loosened, climbing becomes easier. The Prophet’s consideration for his she-camel while travelling is evidence of his excellent care even for animals, and that he should be emulated in this.
His statement, “and he combines the two evening prayers there,” means: when he arrives at Muzdalifah. If one departs in the manner in which the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, departed, he will not reach Muzdalifah until after the time for the ‘Isha prayer has begun.
For this reason, the Prophet’s combining of the prayers at Muzdalifah was a delayed combination, because he