In the Qur'an, prayer is one of the most important acts of worship for Muslims. Some people claim that prayer has been made obligatory only at two specific times and therefore argue that Muslims are required to perform only two daily prayers. Indeed, the Qur'an explicitly mentions two time periods for prayer, while also containing indirect references to other times.
- Surah Hud (11:114): The Two Ends of the Day and the Early Part of the Night
«“And establish prayer at the two ends of the day and in the early hours of the night. Indeed, good deeds remove bad deeds. This is a reminder for those who remember.”»
This verse indicates that prayer should be performed at the beginning and end of the day, as well as during the early part of the night. According to Qur'anic Arabic, the night spans from sunset to sunrise. The two ends of the day correspond to the morning and evening prayer times. The transition from night to day (dawn) and from day to night (sunset) reflects the natural flow of prayer times. The conjunction “and” in the verse functions as an explanatory connector, emphasizing these specific periods. - Surah Al-Isra (17:78): Reference to Evening Prayer
«“Establish prayer from the decline of the sun until the darkness of the night, and the Qur'an at dawn. Indeed, the recitation at dawn is witnessed.”»
This verse points to the time of the evening prayer, covering the period from the sun’s decline toward sunset until the onset of night. Although some interpret this verse as also referring to the morning prayer, the verse itself explicitly emphasizes the evening timeframe. The mention of “Qur'an at dawn” is often interpreted separately and should not be conflated with a formal prayer if the text does not explicitly state so. - Surah Al-Baqarah (2:238): The Obligation and the “Middle Prayer”
«“Guard strictly the prayers, and the middle prayer, and stand before Allah with devotion.”»
This verse highlights the importance of maintaining prayers and introduces the concept of “salat al-wusta” (the middle prayer). While commonly translated as “the middle prayer,” this expression has been interpreted differently. One view suggests that it refers to a special congregational prayer, such as the Friday prayer, which holds a distinct and elevated status among acts of worship. - Surah An-Nur (24:58): Times of Privacy
«“O you who believe! Let those whom your right hands possess and those among you who have not reached puberty ask permission at three times: before the dawn prayer, when you put aside your garments at noon, and after the night prayer…”»
This verse establishes specific times of privacy within the home: before the morning prayer, during midday rest, and after the evening prayer. These times are associated with personal vulnerability and emphasize the importance of maintaining privacy. At the same time, they indirectly point to the existence of morning and evening prayers.
Conclusion
In light of these verses, it can be concluded that the Qur'an explicitly emphasizes two primary times for prayer: morning and evening. However, there are also indirect references to additional time periods. The Friday prayer appears to have a special status, distinguishing it from other prayers.
Islam promotes ease in worship and provides flexibility in difficult circumstances. Accordingly, Muslims should remain mindful of prayer times and fulfill their عبادات in accordance with Allah’s guidance. The Qur'an allows for concessions in situations such as illness or war, where prayers may be shortened rather than abandoned (as indicated in Surah An-Nisa 4:101).
From this perspective, performing prayer at two main times can be seen as a divinely granted ease (rukhsah). Other times may be devoted to remembrance (dhikr) and glorification (tasbih). Ultimately, believers are responsible for adhering to the clear commands of the Qur'an, while appreciating the flexibility and mercy embedded within them.
