Is prayer shortening permissible for short distances based on actions of the Early Muslims (Salaf)?
Chapter on the Traveler's Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
A view supports the permissibility of shortening prayer in distances less than a full day's travel based on the practices of the Salaf. Al-Awza'i reported that Anas used to shorten prayer for a distance of up to five *Farsakh*. Furthermore, reports indicate that Qabisa ibn Dhu'ayb, Hani' ibn Kulthum, and Ibn Muhayriz shortened prayer between Ramla and Jerusalem. Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) shortened prayer when traveling from his palace in Kufa to Al-Nukhaylah and returning the same day to demonstrate the Sunnah. Jubayr ibn Nufayr reported seeing Sharhabil ibn As-Simt shortening prayer at a distance of seventeen or eighteen miles, citing Umar's action at Dhu al-Hulayfa. Dihya al-Kalbi, upon returning from a distance of about three miles where he broke his fast, criticized those who did not follow the Messenger of Allah's path. Sa'id narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) shortened the prayer when traveling one *Farsakh*, and Anas stated the Prophet shortened the prayer when traveling three miles or three *Farsakh*.
Supporting text
The adherents of the main opinion (Hanbalis) cite Ibn Abbas and Ibn Umar, stating that Qasr is not permissible for less than four *Burd* (forty-eight miles) from 'Usfan to Mecca, arguing this distance combines the hardship of travel (ease of movement and rigor). They interpret the narration from Anas regarding three miles as applying only when the travel reaches the distance of long travel.