some of the Companions ate after dawn in Ramadan until they could distinguish the white thread from the black thread, yet the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) did not command them to make up their fasts. Some of them would remain in a state of major ritual impurity for a time without praying, not knowing that they could pray after performing dry ablution. This happened to Abū Dharr, ʿUmar ibn al-Khattāb, and ʿAmmār when in that state, yet the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) did not command any of them to make up the missed prayers. Undoubtedly, many Muslims in Mecca and the desert regions continued praying towards Jerusalem until news of the abrogation reached them, and they were not commanded to repeat their prayers. There are many such examples.

This accords with the principle upheld by the early generations and the majority of scholars: Allah does not burden any soul beyond its capacity. Obligation is therefore conditional upon ability, and punishment is incurred only for neglecting a duty or committing a forbidden act after the proof has been established.

May Allah bless Muhammad, his family, and his Companions, and grant them peace.