Under what circumstances, other than direct enemy engagement, can the Prayer of Intense Fear be performed?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of the Prayer of Fear
Primary text
If a person flees from the enemy in a permissible flight, or from a flood, a wild beast, or a fire that cannot be escaped otherwise, they may perform the Prayer of Intense Fear, whether the fear is for themselves, their wealth, or their family. A captive who fears harm if he prays, or someone hiding, may pray however they are able. This was explicitly stated by Ahmad concerning the captive. If the hidden person is sitting or lying down and unable to move, they pray according to their condition, which is the position of Muhammad ibn al-Hasan. This permission applies equally in settled areas and travel because the permission is granted due to the danger of perishing, which is equal in both states.
Supporting text
Al-Shafi'i holds that the person should pray and then repeat it. This is incorrect because a fearful person prayed according to what was possible, so repetition is not obligatory, similar to the one fleeing. Repetition is not required if escape is possible without such measures, such as a person fleeing a flood ascending high ground, or an enemy-fearing person entering a secure fort; in such cases, they should pray normally, as the Prayer of Intense Fear is only permitted out of necessity.