What are the situations in which we may change the direction of the Qibla?
Facing the Qibla is a condition for the validity of prayer, yet it is waived in three situations: inability to face it, such as a sick person who cannot turn towards the Qibla; in cases of extreme fear, like fleeing from an enemy; and in supererogatory (nafila) prayers for a traveler, where they may pray in the direction they are facing. As for someone ignorant of the Qibla, they must exert effort (ijtihad) and investigate. If they make a mistake after their diligent effort, they are not required to repeat the prayer. However, if they realize their mistake during the prayer, they must immediately turn towards the Qibla.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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