in shortened form. They do not invalidate the prayer of anyone who performs four units, because the Companions approved of those who did so. Indeed, some of them regard doing so as disliked, while others do not, though they consider refraining from it preferable. Two reports on this matter have been transmitted from Ahmad.

This differs from combining two prayers. Since the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) did so only on a few occasions, they recommend refraining from it unless there is a need, following the Prophet’s example when he pressed on with his journey. There are even two differing reports from Ahmad as to whether an encamped traveler who is not presently journeying may combine the prayers. Thus, Ahl al-Sunnah unanimously agree that shortening the prayer is permissible, though they differ over whether completing it in full is permissible; and they unanimously agree that performing the two prayers separately is permissible, though they differ over whether combining them is permissible.

They permit all the forms of the eclipse prayer authentically transmitted from the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

The soundest and best-known form is to perform two bowings in each prayer unit. Authentic reports also prescribe three or four bowings in each prayer unit. They likewise permit omitting the additional bowing, as has been transmitted from the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), and they prolong the prostration