What is the ruling on performing Friday Prayer in a rented apartment for Muslim students, whose number does not exceed forty, in a very cold city far from mosques, with the intention of making it a religious and educational center? And is it better to join Chinese mosques to mix with them and teach them, or to continue with this private gathering? And to what extent is it permissible to conceal this gathering from Chinese authorities who reject religious gatherings?

It is not permissible to hold Friday prayers in the aforementioned apartment, and whoever is able must go to the mosque. Friday prayer is not obligatory for residents who are not permanent settlers, and most scholars stipulate permanent settlement for its validity, which means continuous residence in a village without travel. Furthermore, holding Friday prayers by non-permanent settlers is not valid according to the majority of scholars. This is supported by avoiding the disagreement of those who stipulate forty (attendees) for its validity, averting potential harm from authorities, and realizing the great benefits of attending Friday prayers with the Muslims of the country.