Hadith on the Timing of Zuhr Prayer
Narrated by Jabir bin Samurah (RA):The Prophet (ﷺ) used to offer the Zuhr prayer when the sun had declined.
(Reference: Sahih Muslim: 618)
Narrated by Abu Huraira (RA):
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "When it is extremely hot, delay the prayer until it becomes cooler, for the intensity of heat is from the flames of Hell." He also mentioned that Hellfire complained to its Lord, and Allah allowed it to take two breaths every year: one in winter and one in summer.
(References: Sahih al-Bukhari: 326, 537, 536; Sahih Muslim: 617)
Key Lessons and Rulings from the Hadith
➊ Zuhr Prayer is Performed After the Sun Declines
- The correct time for Zuhr prayer begins when the sun declines from its zenith and lasts until the shadow of an object becomes equal to its length.
- The opinion that Zuhr should be prayed when the shadow is twice the length of an object is not established through any authentic and elevated (marfu') hadith.
➋ Delaying Zuhr Prayer in Summer is Recommended
- In extreme heat, delaying Zuhr prayer slightly until the weather cools down is a preferred practice.
- However, this delay does not mean waiting until the very last moment of Zuhr time; rather, it refers to a slight postponement to avoid the intense heat.
➌ Heat and Cold are Among the Two "Breaths" of Hell
- The severe heat of summer and the extreme cold of winter are described as two breaths of Hellfire.
- This teaches that the punishments of Hell are far more intense than the heat or cold experienced in this world.
- It also affirms that both Hell and Paradise are existing creations of Allah.
➍ Even Lifeless Objects Praise Allah
- The hadith indicates that inanimate objects, by Allah’s will, can express their condition and glorify Him.
- The complaint of Hell to its Lord shows that everything in existence, even non-living entities, functions under divine authority.
➎ Cooling Down Hot Food and Drinks is Encouraged
- It is recommended to let hot food and drinks cool before consumption.
- A believer should avoid excessive complaints and should remain thankful to Allah in all conditions.
- Complaints should not be made unnecessarily, but if a person is in extreme distress, they may express their condition to Allah alone.
- The hadith also emphasizes that if something is permitted by Allah, it should be accepted with an open heart, and if something is prohibited, no unnecessary leniency should be sought.
