Is it obligatory to initiate the prayer facing the Qiblah when riding an obedient, separate mount?
Chapter on Facing the Qiblah
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
There are two narrations regarding whether one must initiate the prayer facing the Qiblah when riding an obedient, solitary mount. One narration states it is obligatory, based on the report from Anas that the Prophet (peace be upon him), when traveling and intending to pray voluntary prayers, would have his camel face the Qiblah, say the opening Takbir, and then pray in the direction the riders faced. This is narrated by Imam Ahmad in his Musnad and by Abu Dawud. The reasoning is that since facing the Qiblah was possible at the start, it is incumbent, similar to the entire prayer.
Supporting text
The second narration suggests it is not obligatory, arguing that facing the Qiblah at the start is merely one component of the prayer, analogous to other components, and since it involves some hardship, it is waived. Furthermore, the Prophet's action is interpreted as being recommendatory (Nadb) or virtuous (Fadhilah).