Are there exceptions for being excused from attending obligatory congregational (Jama'ah) and Friday (Jumu'ah) prayers?
Chapter on the Description of Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
The sick are excused from attending both congregational and Friday prayers according to the consensus of scholars. Ibn al-Mundhir stated there is no known disagreement that the sick may be absent from congregations due to illness. Evidence is found in the Hadith narrated by Ibn 'Abbas, where the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Whoever hears the call and nothing prevents him from following it—they asked, 'What is the excuse, O Messenger of Allah?' He replied, 'Fear or illness'—his prayer will not be accepted." Furthermore, when the Prophet (peace be upon him) was ill, he instructed Bilal to tell people to have Abu Bakr lead the prayer.
Supporting text
The fearful are also excused based on the same Hadith citing 'fear or illness' as valid excuses. Fear is categorized into three types: fear for one's life, fear for one's wealth, and fear for one's family. Fear for life includes fear of an oppressor, enemy, thief, wild animal, flood, or similar harm. Fear of a creditor to whom one owes a debt without means to pay is also included, provided seizing the person for an overdue, unjust debt is feared. However, if one owes a legally mandated punishment (Hadd), debt repayment, or compensation for an injury (Qisas), fear of being apprehended is not an excuse because fulfilling these obligations is necessary. Fear of affliction that can be resolved through reconciliation involving payment may permit absence until reconciliation occurs, unlike mandated punishments which do not admit settlement or pardon.