that are few in number, according to the majority, including Abū Hanīfah, Mālik and Ahmad. Indeed, according to one of the two reports from Ahmad, observing this order is obligatory whether the missed prayers are few or many. They disagree, however, over what constitutes a small number.

They also hold that missed prayers must be made up immediately. The same applies according to al-Shāfi‘ī when the prayers were deliberately omitted, according to the correct opinion among his followers, unlike prayers missed through forgetfulness. The majority cite as evidence the words of the Prophet—peace and blessings be upon him:

“Whoever sleeps through a prayer or forgets it must pray it when he remembers it. There is no expiation for it other than that.”

In another wording: “For that is its appointed time.”

Those who consider observing the prescribed order obligatory disagree over whether this requirement is waived when time is short. There are two opinions, both reported from Ahmad. The better-known report from him is that the requirement is waived, which is also the position of Abū Hanīfah and his followers. According to the other report, it is not waived, which is Mālik’s position. There is a similar disagreement over whether it is waived through forgetfulness.

Since hastening to make up a missed prayer and giving it precedence over the current prayer carry such weight, doing so at a time like this is obligatory. As for al-Shāfi‘ī, since he permits the prayer of greeting the mosque at this time, making up a missed prayer is all the more deserving of being permitted. And Allah knows best.