Question :
We live in a non-Muslim country, and there is a difference between mosques regarding the timing of the beginning of Fajr prayer. Some mosques pray based on the 15° angle, while others use the 18° angle. We have noticed that all Arab countries perform Fajr prayer at the 18° angle. So, which angle is correct for Fajr prayer?
The Answer :
Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds; may His blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Mohammad and upon all his family and companions.
Each country has its own specific prayer times that differ from other countries, and sometimes time differences are taken into account even within the same country. Therefore, it is not valid to rely on the Umm Al-Qura timetable in Jordan, for example, due to the geographical difference in longitude, which affects the times of Fajr, sunrise, noon, sunset, and so on.
There are approved timetables that Muslim communities in foreign countries can refer to, such as the Umm Al-Qura calendar and the calendar of the Muslim World League—both adjusted to the location of residence. According to the Umm Al-Qura method, the time for Fajr begins when the sun is 19 degrees below the horizon. As for the method of the Muslim World League, Fajr begins when the sun is 18 degrees below the horizon. This is the view adopted by the majority of Muslim countries today, based on both Muslim and non-Muslim astronomers, that the onset of Fajr occurs when the sun is at 18 or 19 degrees below the horizon. The opinion that Fajr begins at 15 degrees is not given consideration.
A Muslim is required to follow the approved prayer timetable in their place of residence, according to the trusted authorities. One should not pay attention to those who frequently claim errors in these timetables, as many of these individuals lack true knowledge of the astronomical phenomena that determine prayer times. They are often hasty in making such claims without proper investigation or verification. Globally approved timetables have been established through the observation and study of reliable scholarly and scientific committees, with the assistance of astronomical calculations. Therefore, whoever follows an approved timetable has fulfilled their duty, and their prayer is valid.
In conclusion, a Muslim residing in non-Muslim countries is obligated to follow the prayer times issued by recognized authorities in the Islamic world. One is cleared from liability before Allah The Almighty by following any of these approved timetables. It is not appropriate to pay attention to those who claim errors in the calendars issued by trusted and reputable sources or those who go against what the majority of Islamic countries have adopted. And Allah The Almighty Knows Best.
