Ruling on Qasr Prayer at One’s In-Laws’ House – Juristic Clarification

Source: Fatāwā Muḥammadiyyah, Vol. 1, p. 525

❖ Question​

If a person travels to his in-laws’ house for two days, and the distance from his own home is such that qasr becomes necessary, should he pray qasr there, or will his in-laws’ house be considered like his own residence where qasr is not allowed?

✿ Answer​

Al-ḥamdu lillāh, waṣ-ṣalātu wa-salāmu ʿalā Rasūlillāh, ammā baʿd!

• There is no authentic proof from the Qur’ān or ḥadīth that an in-laws’ house should be considered a person’s own permanent residence.
• Socially, the relationship with in-laws may appear strong and lasting, but in reality, it can be fragile, as separation or divorce may break the bond completely.

◈ Therefore, if the in-laws’ house is at a distance where qasr becomes applicable, then the son-in-law is allowed to perform qasr there if he intends to stay up to three days.

Difference of Opinion​

However, Mawlānā ʿAbd al-Qādir Ḥiṣārī رحمه الله disagreed and held that the son-in-law must not pray qasr at his in-laws’ home, considering it similar to one’s own house.


Thus, the reader may adopt whichever opinion brings peace and confidence to the heart.

Conclusion​

• If the in-laws’ house is at the distance of safar, then qasr is permissible up to three days’ stay.
• Some scholars, however, disallow qasr there, considering it like one’s own home.

ھذا ما عندي واللہ أعلم بالصواب