Is a traveler permitted to shorten prayers (Qasr) upon returning to a town if they left only for a temporary need?
Chapter on the Traveler's Prayer
Al-Mughni
Book of Prayer
Primary text
A traveler who leaves but returns for a specific need is permitted to shorten prayers upon returning, unless they intended to stay for a duration that negates travel privileges, or if their family or wealth is in that town. This ruling is ascribed to Ahmad. The foundation for this is that the traveler has established the legal status of travel upon departure, and no residency that negates this status has occurred. This is analogous to arriving at a town other than the one departed from.
Supporting text
In another narration attributed to Ahmad, the traveler must complete prayers (i.e., pray fully, not shorten them) unless they are merely passing through. The view aligns with the concept that if one intends only to take their need and return without establishing residency, shortening prayers is appropriate.