Ṣalātu ʾs-Safar (صلاة السفر)
Definition
Ṣalātu ʾs-Safar (صلاة السفر) refers to the “Prayers of Travel” in Islam. It consists of a shortened form of the obligatory prayers (Ṣalāh) that Muslims are permitted to perform when they are traveling. This practice is rooted in Islamic tradition and teachings.
Etymology
The term Ṣalātu ʾs-Safar is derived from Arabic, where:
- Ṣalāh (صلاة) means “prayer” or “worship.”
- Safar (سفر) translates to “travel” or “journey.”
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: صلاة السفر
- Turkish: Seyahat Namazı
Quranic Foundation and Hadith
The foundation for the practice of Ṣalātu ʾs-Safar is found in a tradition narrated by Yaʿla ibn Umaiyah. He recounts an interaction with ʿUmar, the second Caliph, concerning a verse from the Quran:
<p>“When ye go to war in the land, it shall be no sin for you to shorten your prayers if ye fear that the infidels may attack you” (Quran 4:101).</p>
Though the verse mentions the context of fear during war, it also establishes a general principle of ease for travelers regardless of immediate danger. ʿUmar cited the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who stated that God has granted a concession by curtailing their prayers during travel, and should therefore be accepted.
Ibn ʿUmar and Ibn ʿAbbās further documented that during travel, the Prophet Muhammad, as well as the first three caliphs Abū Bakr, ʿUmar, and ʿUthmān, would perform only two rakʿahs instead of the usual four for the noon (Dhuhr) and afternoon (Asr) prayers, and would combine noon and afternoon prayers, as well as sunset (Maghrib) and evening (Isha) prayers.
Legal Rulings
According to traditional Islamic jurisprudence, traveling Muslims are allowed and encouraged to shorten certain obligatory prayers as follows:
- Perform two rakʿahs instead of the usual four farẓ rakʿahs for Dhuhr (noon), Asr (afternoon), and Isha (evening) prayers.
- Maintain the regular two farẓ rakʿahs for the Fajr (morning) prayer.
- Perform the regular three farẓ rakʿahs for the Maghrib (sunset) prayer.
Additionally, all voluntary (Nafl) prayers are generally omitted during travel.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Fiqh al-Sunnah” by Sayyid Sabiq - A comprehensive guide on the practical aspects of Islamic jurisprudence including travel prayers.
- “The Reliance of the Traveller” by Ahmad ibn Naqib al-Misri - A classical manual on Islamic jurisprudence for travelers.
- “Al-Muwatta” by Imam Malik - Contains several narrations related to the practices of travel prayers.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Ṣalātu ʾs-Safar signifies the ease and flexibility granted to Muslims in fulfilling their religious obligations while traveling. This practice highlights the underlying principle of convenience in Islamic law (Sharia) and reflects God’s compassion and consideration for human circumstances. Through this concession, Muslims are able to maintain their spiritual duties even while on the move.
Conclusion
Ṣalātu ʾs-Safar epitomizes the considerate and pragmatic nature of Islamic rulings, ensuring that worship remains manageable and sustainable for all adherents, regardless of their physical location. Understanding and implementing these rulings allows Muslims to continue their devotion smoothly, reflecting the balance and flexibility inherent in Islamic practice.
