While the congregational prayer is going on, should one perform the Sunnat Salah of Fajr? Or should he join the congregational prayer and then perform it afterwards?
الجواب حامدا و مصلیا
If it is possible for one to join the congregational prayer before the Imam performs the Salam, then he should perform the Sunnat and then join the congregational prayer. The Sunnat of the Fajr Salah has been very much emphasized in Ahadith, hence this was also the action of the companions of the Holy Prophetﷺ. However, if one fears that he may miss the congregational prayer, then he should join it because the congregational prayer is more important. In this case, one will not forsake his Sunnat, but according to the view of Imam Muhammadرح, it is better to perform it before midday.