Is the shortening of prayer valid if the traveler believes shortening is forbidden?
Chapter on the Traveler's Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The shortened prayer is invalid if the traveler performs it while believing that shortening is forbidden. This is because the person performed an act they believe to be forbidden, meaning it does not count as sufficient fulfillment, similar to one who prays believing they are in a state of minor impurity (hadath). Furthermore, the intention of drawing near to God through prayer is a condition, and one who believes they are committing a sin cannot fulfill this intention.