by the Book of Allah and the sunnah, that is the obligatory course. If this cannot be done because time is short, the person seeking to determine it lacks the ability, the evidence appears equally compelling to him, or for some other reason, he may defer to a scholar whose knowledge and religious integrity he trusts. This is the strongest view.

It has also been said that he may not defer to another under any circumstances (1), and that he may do so in every circumstance. All three views are found in the school of Ahmad and others.

Likewise, the conditions stipulated for judges and governors must be fulfilled insofar as possible. The same applies to every other requirement (2) pertaining to acts of worship, including prayer, jihad, and other such acts: all of this is obligatory when one is able. When one is unable, however, Allah burdens [أ/ق 74] no soul beyond its capacity. Hence, Allah commanded the worshipper to purify himself with water; but if he cannot find it, or fears that using it would cause harm because of severe cold, wounds (3), or some other cause, he performs dry ablution with clean earth (4), wiping his face and hands with it. The Prophet—peace and blessings be upon him—said to Imrān ibn Husayn, “Pray standing; if you cannot, then seated; and if you cannot, then on your side.” (5)

Allah Most High has thus made it obligatory to perform the prayer within its prescribed time, in whatever manner is possible. Allah Most High says:

“Guard all prayers, especially the middle prayer, and stand before Allah in devout obedience. (238) If you are in fear, then pray on foot or while riding. Once you are safe, remember Allah as He taught you what you did not know.” [al-Baqara: 238–239]