Shariah Ruling on the Order of Maghrib and ‘Isha Prayers❖ Question
If a person misses the Maghrib prayer and arrives at the mosque during the ‘Isha congregational prayer, in what order should the two prayers be performed?
❖ Answer by Shaykh Abdul Wakeel Nasir ḥafiẓahullāh
① If the ‘Isha Congregation Is in Progress
◄ If the person arrives at the mosque while the ‘Isha congregation is ongoing,
→ he should join the congregation with the intention of ‘Isha prayer.
◄ After completing the ‘Isha prayer,
→ he should perform the missed Maghrib prayer (Qaḍāʾ).
② If the Congregation Has Ended
◄ If the ‘Isha congregation has already ended, and the person is praying alone,
→ then he should first perform the missed Maghrib prayer,
→ followed by the ‘Isha prayer.
◄ This order should be maintained as long as there is no fear of the ‘Isha time ending.
③ If There Is a Risk That ‘Isha Time Will End
◄ If there is a risk that ‘Isha time may expire, and praying Maghrib first would lead to missing ‘Isha,
→ then ‘Isha should be performed first to ensure it is offered within its prescribed time.
◄ Since Maghrib is already missed, offering ‘Isha on time becomes the priority.
❖ Summary
◈ ✔ If ‘Isha congregation is available → perform ‘Isha first, then make up Maghrib.
◈ ✔ If praying alone and sufficient time remains → perform Maghrib first, then ‘Isha.
◈ ✔ If time is short and ‘Isha might be missed → perform ‘Isha first, then make up Maghrib.
