Determination of the Deadline for Isha Prayer: Fiqh and Astronomical Analysis of the Concept of Midnight

Irfangi; Fernini

doi:10.66325/7v44ef64

Authors

Irfangi Universitas Muhammadiyah Gombong, Kebumen, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
Fernini Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, POB 27272, United Arab Emirates

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.66325/7v44ef64

Keywords:

Astonomi Islam, fikih, niṣf al-layl, shalat Isya, twilight

Abstract

The determination of the deadline for Isha prayer is one of the important issues in the study of fiqh that has practical implications in the lives of Muslims. The difference of views among scholars regarding the time limit, especially in relation to the concept of midnight (niṣf al-layl), shows that there is a space for interpretation influenced by textual and contextual approaches. This study aims to analyze the deadline for Isha prayer through an integrative approach between fiqh and astronomy. The method used is qualitative research with a normative-analytical approach to classical sources of fiqh and a scientific approach through astronomical calculations of night time. The results of the study show that the majority of scholars set midnight as the main limit (ikhtiyārī) of Isha time, while the final limit remains until dawn with a different legal status. From an astronomical perspective, midnight can be calculated objectively based on the time difference between Maghrib and Fajr which is divided in two, thus providing a quantitative basis in determining the time of worship. This integration between fiqh and astronomical approaches strengthens the understanding that midnight has not only a normative dimension, but also scientific precision. Thus, this study emphasizes the importance of using an interdisciplinary approach in formulating accurate and applicable worship time limits in the modern era.

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