Q. Looking at the water shortage in the country, Salaatul Istisqaa is taking place around the country. Do women have to attend Salaatul Istisqaa in a field or a Masjid?
A. Due to severe shortage of water or rain, Salaatul Istisqaa is offered to attract the mercy of Allah Ta’ala with the hope of Allah Ta’ala showering the people with beneficial rain.
It is preferable (Mustahab) for the weak amongst us to be included in offering Salaatul Istisqaa i.e. in this case, the elderly and children as the mercy of Allah Ta’ala descends because of them. (Haashiyatut-Tahtaawi Ala Maraaqil Falaah 2/178) This does not include females as the place of females offering Salaah is at home. More so, there is greater hope for a females Salaah, Dua etc. being accepted at home.
Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
Mufti Ismaeel Bassa