Question
Which is better: performing the rawātib (Sunnah prayers) or engaging in teaching/learning knowledge?
Answer
Al-ḥamdu lillāh, waṣ-ṣalātu wa-s-salāmu ʿalā Rasūlillāh, ʿammā baʿd!
✿ Both acts are virtuous — performing the rawātib (Sunnah prayers attached to the obligatory ones) and teaching/learning knowledge. Ideally, a Muslim should strive to do both whenever possible.
✿ If due to teaching it is not possible to pray the Sunnah prayers before the obligatory ṣalāh, then these Sunnah prayers may be performed after the obligatory prayer.
✿ Example from the Prophet ﷺ:
It is authentically reported that once the Prophet ﷺ delayed the two rakʿahs after Ẓuhr due to being occupied with conversation, and he performed them after ʿAṣr instead.
Conclusion:Both teaching knowledge and performing rawātib are acts of worship. If circumstances prevent performing them at their usual time, there is allowance in the Sunnah to perform them later, ensuring neither the pursuit of knowledge nor the Sunnah prayers are abandoned.
