is the terminology used by many later jurists, while the latter is supported by the statements of the Companions, such as ‘Ā’ishah, Ibn ‘Abbās, and others.

‘Ā’ishah said: “Prayer was prescribed as two units for each prayer. When the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, emigrated to Medina, the prayer offered when not travelling was increased, while the travel prayer remained unchanged.” This indicates that, in her view, the travel prayer is not shortened from four units; rather, it was prescribed in that form, and the traveller’s obligatory prayer consists of two units. Ibn ‘Abbās said: “Allah prescribed prayer through your Prophet: four units when not travelling, two when travelling, and one in circumstances of fear.” Both al-Bukhārī and Muslim recorded the hadith of ‘Ā’ishah (1), while Muslim alone (2) recorded the hadith of Ibn ‘Abbās.

‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb said: “The travel prayer is two units, the Friday prayer is two units, and the Eid prayer is two units—complete, not shortened—as declared by Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. Whoever fabricates lies has indeed failed” (3). This is authentically established from ‘Umar. He was the one who asked the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him: “Why do we shorten the prayer when we are safe?” The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, replied: “It is a charity Allah has bestowed upon you, so accept