Is the current timing of Fajr prayer in Morocco, which is based on astronomical calculations, incorrect according to observations of the sky's darkness and the sun's failure to rise at the specified time, and Muhammad Taqi al-Din al-Hilali's assertion that prayer is obligatory only at "ishfaq"?
Prayer times are not calculated by a specific clock time, but rather by what the Lawgiver has made a sign for their time. The current calendars are based on these signs. If their inaccuracy becomes apparent, it is not permissible to rely on them. The validity of prayer depends on verifying the entry of its time. The presence of darkness does not contradict the appearance of dawn, as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to pray Fajr in ghalas (darkness), and women would return to their homes, unrecognized by anyone due due to the intensity of the darkness. If it is proven that the calendar is ahead of the true dawn's entry, then it is not permissible to act upon it. It is advisable to visually ascertain the dawn with the naked eye or to delay the prayer until the entry of its time is confirmed, and to report the matter to the Ministry of Endowments.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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