MasjidRouteTravel fiqh guide
Qasar Namaz - Shortened Prayer During Travel
Understanding Qasar (prayer shortening) - a mercy from Allah for travellers. Complete fiqh guidance with practical examples.
What is Qasar?
Qasar means "to shorten." During travel, Muslims can shorten their four-rakat prayers (Zuhr, Asr, Isha) to two rakats. This is a mercy from Allah for travellers. Only the four-rakat prayers shorten; Fajr (2 rakats) and Maghrib (3 rakats) remain unchanged.
Which Prayers Shorten?
✓ Zuhr (Noon): 4 rakats → 2 rakats
✓ Asr (Afternoon): 4 rakats → 2 rakats
✓ Isha (Evening): 4 rakats → 2 rakats
✗ Fajr (Dawn): Remains 2 rakats
✗ Maghrib (Sunset): Remains 3 rakats
When Do You Qualify for Qasar?
Distance Requirement (varies by school)
Hanafi School: About 48 miles (78 km) or more
Other Schools: Any significant journey (flights, long road trips)
When Does Qasar End?
When you arrive somewhere and intend to stay 4 or more days, Qasar ends. You return to full prayers (4 rakats).
Practical Examples
✓ Flight to another city
Use Qasar (2 rakats) until you arrive and decide to stay 4+ days
✓ Road trip (2-3 days)
Use Qasar during journey and while passing through
? Short local trip
Check with your local imam or follow your school's guidance