Nasai

590. Commentary:

➊ The words mentioned in the hadith: «اخر الظھر ۔ ۔ ۔ وعجل العشاء» are interpolated. This is the statement of Jabir bin Zayd himself, which he expressed as his own opinion; these are not the words of Ibn Abbas radi Allahu anhuma, as is evident from the detailed narrations in Bukhari and Muslim. Furthermore, the verifier of the book has also indicated this in the referencing. Therefore, one cannot use these words as a basis to negate the reality of combining (the prayers), as some people consider it a notional (apparent) combination instead of a real one; this is not correct, and the words of the hadith do not support this. And Allah knows best. For further details, see: [سلسلة الأحادیث الصحیحة ، حدیث : 2795]

This action of the Prophet sallallahu alayhi wa sallam took place while he was resident, that is, in Madinah Munawwarah. It is as if, on this occasion, he combined two prayers without any (specific) reason. Upon inquiry, he clarified: "So that my ummah would not face hardship." [صحیح مسلم ، صلاة المسافرین ، حدیث : 705]

From this, it is established that even a resident person, in case of need, can combine two prayers. However, to do so out of negligence, for business engagements, or as a habitual practice is a major sin; in normal circumstances, there is absolutely no allowance for this.