ভূমিকা

Technically, this is [called] ‘jam' al-taqdim’ (the preceding combination). Similarly, there is no difference between them in allowing the combination of the two obligatory [prayers] - al-maghrib and al-`isha' - at al-Muzdalifa [another ground near Mecca, Saudi Arabia] at the time of the `isha' [prayers]. Technically, this is called ‘jam' al-ta'khir’ (the delayed combination). There is no difference [amongst the scholars] in preferring these two combinations.

Indeed, they are amongst the prophetic practices. However, they (the scholars) have differed as to the permissibility of combining the prayers in daily performances.

The point of disagreement here is the permissibility of combining two [individually performable] obligatory prayers by performing them together at the time stipulated for one of them either by bringing it forward (taqdiman) as at `Arafa, or, by delaying it [until the time stipulated for the later prayer] (ta'khiran) as done at al-Muzdalifa [for al-maghrib and al-isha prayers respectively].

The Imams [twelve] from the family of Muhammad (S) have declared that this is permissible at all times although it is better to separate them [prayers]. Their followers (Shi`as) have followed them in this [ruling] at all times and places. Most of the time, they combine al-zuhr and al-`asr, and al-maghrib and al-`isha' [prayers], whether they are traveling, are at home, or, they have an excuse [to combine], and without no excuse at all.

‘Jam' al-taqdim’ and ‘jam' al-ta'khir’ are equally valid for them [at all times]. As for the School of Hanafis [jurisprudence], they have prohibited the combination [of prayers] absolutely, with exception being at `Arafa and al-Muzdalifa. [This is] despite the presence of numerous clear sahih (authentic traditions) which allow the combination, especially when traveling.

However, despite the clear [traditions], they (the School of Hanafis) interpreted them to refer to an unintentional combination (al-jam' al-suri).