Is shortening the prayer (Qasr) permissible for a traveler who is forced to travel, such as a captive?
Chapter on the Traveler's Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
Shortening the prayer is permissible for one who travels under duress, like a captive, provided the journey is long, as stated by Ahmad. The justification is that such a person is a traveler undertaking a long journey that is not forbidden, thus allowing concession, analogous to a woman traveling with her husband or a slave with his master, whose concessions are valid even if they intend to return upon a change of circumstance. Furthermore, if the captive reaches enemy fortifications, he must complete the full prayer because his journey has ended.
Supporting text
Al-Shafi'i holds that shortening is not permitted because the captive lacks the intention (Niyyah) and firm resolve for travel, as his intention is to return immediately if he escapes.