What is the ruling on prayer when intense fear prevents facing the Qibla?
Chapter on Facing the Qiblah
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
When intense fear necessitates movement, such as fleeing from an enemy, flood, wild animal, or fire, or when engaged in battle requiring maneuvering, a person may pray according to their capacity. If facing the Qibla is not possible, prayer may be offered in any direction, whether walking or riding, indicating bowing and prostration through gesture (*iimaa'*). The prostration must involve a deeper inclination than the bowing, to the extent of one's ability. If one is unable to gesture, the requirement is waived. Prayer time must not be delayed due to the ruling: {But if you fear, then [perform it] on foot or mounted} (Quran 2:239). Ibn Umar narrated a report, deemed by Nafi' to be from the Prophet (peace be upon him), indicating that in extreme fear, prayer is performed standing or mounted, facing the Qibla or otherwise.
Supporting text
There is a scholarly difference of opinion concerning starting the prayer facing the Qibla when one is pursuing an enemy, fearing their escape. One view states it is not obligatory because facing the Qibla is one part of the prayer, similar to other parts for which facing the Qibla is not stipulated during the action itself. Another view states it is obligatory, based on the narration that the Prophet (peace be upon him), when praying on his mount during travel, would first face the Qibla to begin the Takbir, and then pray wherever the animal was headed (Narrated by Al-Daraqutni).