Can I combine Asr and Zuhr prayers during lunch break due to work constraints?

Answer:

In the name of Allah the Giver of life and Death

In the situation you have mentioned, providing the circumstances which you have indicated are correct. It would be permissible to an extent that you combine two Salaahs together. You will not be allowed to miss the pray but you may combine the Salaahs in the following manner:

If one is to say hypothetically that Zuhr time ends are 3.00 PM and Asr time begins after this then, it will be permissible to delay the Zuhr Salaah to just slightly before this time and thereafter once it is past 3.00 PM (and Asr time has began) one should recite his Asr. Thus in the gap of approximately 10-15 minutes he/she has completed both prays.

It should be noted that you can only pray your Asr once the time for Asr has began, you cannot recite it before then.

If such a situation arises in which the doctor, surgeon etc has no option whatsoever in leaving the theatre, as it would result in the death of a patient, then one will have to forgo his Salaah, for that duration of time and must make Qadha of it after this, as soon as possible. Repentance should also be sought after the Qadha has been offered.

If it is possible you should try to have a second doctor or colleague who could cover for you for that duration of time. I do understand that this is not always an option.

In conclusion, you have one of three options, to combine the Salaahs in the manner mentioned above, or delay that Salaah and read it as Qadha (this is only for a worst case scenario) or to leave the room while another doctor covers for you and read the Salaah on time.

And Allah knows best

Ref Al-Hidayah Shami Vol 1-2

15-2-2006

Approved by Mufti Zubair Dudha

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Mufti Abubakr Karolia
Batley, U.K
Founder of the “Islamic Foundation for Theology and Research” (I.F.T.A.R)