What is the ruling on repeating the prayer for one who prayed Fajr and then doubted whether dawn broke before or after, or doubted if a prayer was performed within its prescribed time?
Chapter on Imamate and Congregational Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
If one prayed Fajr and then doubted whether dawn broke or not, or doubted if a previously performed prayer was done within its time or before it, one is obligated to repeat the prayer. The person repeating the prayer may lead those who have not yet prayed. The original status of the prayer remaining due upon the person necessitates that leading another in repetition is valid, similar to one who doubts whether they prayed at all.
Supporting text
Regarding a follower who misses one rak'ah and the leader prays five rak'ahs out of forgetfulness, Ibn 'Aqil stated the follower does not count the fifth rak'ah because it is an error of forgetfulness. Al-Qadi stated this rak'ah is voluntary for the leader and mandatory for the follower, leading to the two established narrations. Ahmad paused on these issues. The sounder view is to count it for the follower, as otherwise, the follower would be obligated to pray five rak'ahs knowing the situation. If the Imam mistakenly prayed Dhuhr believing it was 'Asr, Ahmad stated that both the Imam and the followers must repeat. If the Imam realizes during the prayer and completes it as 'Asr, it becomes voluntary for him, but if he changes his intention to Dhuhr, his prayer is nullified based on previous statements. Ibn Hamid stated he completes it, and the required prayer remains due.