What is the ruling regarding praying on an animal during rain or illness?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The established position according to Abu Hanifa is that prayer may be performed on a riding animal during rain and sickness. This is supported by the narration of Ya'la ibn Umayyah concerning the Prophet (peace be upon him) praying on his mount in difficult circumstances, with rain above and water below, signaling the prostration lower than the bowing. Furthermore, the action of Anas ibn Malik praying on his animal during a rainy day while heading towards Sarabit is cited, and since no contrary opinion from others is recorded, it implies consensus (Ijma').
Supporting text
The position of the Companions of Shafi'i and a narration from Malik state that it is not permissible to pray a mandatory prayer on a riding animal due to rain or illness, citing the Hadith of Abu Sa'id al-Khudri where the Prophet's forehead and nose showed signs of water and mud upon concluding prayer.