In the world of Islam, time holds significant importance in the lives of believers. Muslims follow a precise schedule of daily prayers, with each prayer associated with a specific time of day. One such crucial period is known as Shurooq time, which is the focus of our discussion today. This article aims to shed light on what Shurooq time is and why it is so vital in the context of Islamic prayer.
What is Shurooq?
Shurooq time is the period of sunrise, spanning from the moment the sun first appears on the horizon to when it has fully risen and is visible in its entirety. The Shurooq time is also the time when the time allocated for the observance of the Fajr prayer ends. In other words, Shurooq begins when Fajr time ends.
Shurooq is also commonly associated with the Ishraq prayer, which is an optional prayer (sunnah) that is performed right after the Shurooq time has ended. The Ishraq prayer comprises of 2 rakats.
Duration of Shurooq Time:
Shurooq time typically lasts for around 15 minutes, which is approximately the time required for the sun to rise to the height of a spear above the horizon. This duration may vary slightly depending on your geographical location and the time of the year.
To be on the safe side, It is commonly recommended to wait at least 20 minutes till after sunrise (start of Shurooq time). You may choose to offer the Ishraq prayer after this duration has been completed.
You do not have to worry about having to observe the sun yourself. In the contemporary age of technology, the start of Shurooq time can be conveniently determined through the use of the internet, Islamic websites, and dedicated mobile applications.
Narrated Hisham’s father:
Ibn `Umar said, “Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, ‘If the edge of the sun appears (above the horizon) delay the prayer till it becomes high, and if the edge of the sun disappears, delay the prayer till it sets (disappears completely).’ “
~ Sahih al-Bukhari 583
Impact of Shurooq on Prayer
To avoid any confusion or the possibility of being mistaken for sun worshippers, the Prophet and his companions refrained from performing their daily prayers during Shurooq time.
The decision to avoid prayer during Shurooq time was not meant to cast any negative connotations on the act of prayer itself. Rather, it was intended to establish a clear distinction between Islamic worship and the rituals of sun worshippers. By abstaining from prayer during this period, Muslims would not be associated with those who venerated the rising sun.
Likewise, it is also forbidden to offer prayers at sunset, or when the sun is at its zenith (noon).
Narrated Ibn `Umar:
Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “None of you should try to pray at sunrise or sunset.”
~ Sahih al-Bukhari 585
There are some exceptions made, as can be seen from the below-mentioned Hadith. If you are in the midst of your prayer when the Shurooq time has started, you may complete your prayer.
Narrated Abu Huraira:
Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “If anyone of you can get one rak`a of the `Asr prayer before sunset, he should complete his prayer. If any of you can get one rak`a of the Fajr prayer before sunrise, he should complete his prayer.”
~ Sahih al-Bukhari 556
Otherwise you will have to delay your prayer, and then offer it as Qaza (Qada) after the Shurooq time has ended.
Conclusion
To conclude, Shurooq is an essential part of our Islamic faith, as one of the three forbidden times of prayers. Better understanding of this concept, and the associated articles of faith, we are able to strengthen our religion, and avoid committing sin.