The Islamic faith follows a structured schedule for prayers, aligning them with the position of the sun. One critical time period often discussed among Muslims is Zawal time—the moment when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky (solar noon) before beginning its descent. During this short window, Muslims are advised not to perform any voluntary or obligatory prayers (Salah).
In Sharjah, as in other parts of the UAE and the Islamic world, Zawal time changes slightly every day based on the sun’s movement. It is essential for devout Muslims to be aware of this time to ensure their prayers are in accordance with Islamic teachings.
This article explores the importance of Zawal time, its exact calculation in Sharjah, the religious basis for observing this period, and the impact of this timing on daily prayers.
What is Zawal Time?
Zawal (زوال) is an Arabic term that translates to “decline” or “disappearance.” In the context of Islamic prayer, it refers to the period around solar noon when the sun begins its descent after reaching its peak.
- This is not a fixed time and varies depending on geographical location and season.
- In Islamic teachings, praying at the exact moment of Zawal is discouraged, as the sun is at its zenith, a position sometimes associated with idol worship in pre-Islamic cultures.
However, once the Zawal period ends, the Dhuhr (midday) prayer can begin.
Zawal Time in Sharjah – March 2025
Sharjah follows the UAE’s standard Islamic prayer times, which are calculated using astronomical data and Islamic principles. On March 27, 2025, the prayer timings for Sharjah are as follows:
- Fajr (Dawn Prayer): 4:56 AM
- Sunrise: 6:15 AM
- Zawal Time: Estimated between 12:09 PM – 12:24 PM
- Dhuhr (Noon Prayer): 12:24 PM
- Asr (Afternoon Prayer): 3:52 PM
- Maghrib (Sunset Prayer): 6:33 PM
- Isha (Night Prayer): 8:03 PM
How is Zawal Time Calculated?
Zawal time is determined using solar noon, which is when the sun is at its highest point before declining westward. To calculate Zawal:
- Find the Dhuhr prayer time for the day – In Sharjah, it is 12:24 PM on March 27, 2025.
- Subtract 15 minutes before Dhuhr – This gives an estimated Zawal period of 12:09 PM – 12:24 PM.
During this window, Muslims should avoid offering any prayers until the time for Dhuhr begins.
Why is Praying During Zawal Discouraged?
Islamic teachings prohibit performing Salah exactly at the time of Zawal for several key reasons:
1. Influence of Pre-Islamic Practices
In ancient times, various civilizations worshipped the sun at its peak. To distinguish Islamic practices from idol worship, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advised against praying at Zawal.
2. Sun’s Position and Divine Order
Scholars believe that when the sun reaches its zenith, it is a unique moment in the day when no shadow is cast. It is seen as a transitional period in which prayers should be paused.
3. Hadith References
There are multiple Hadiths (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad PBUH) regarding Zawal:
- Narrated by Abu Sa’id Al-Khudri (RA):
“There is no prayer after the Fajr prayer until the sun rises, and there is no prayer after the Asr prayer until the sun sets.” (Bukhari & Muslim) - Narrated by Amr ibn Abasah (RA):
“Pray the morning (Fajr) prayer, then refrain from praying until the sun has completely risen… then cease to pray until the sun passes the meridian (Zawal).” (Sunan Abu Dawood)
These narrations indicate that praying at sunrise, Zawal, and sunset is discouraged because these are times when idolaters were known to worship the sun.
How Does Zawal Time Affect Salah?
Zawal time primarily impacts Dhuhr prayer, as it marks the transition point when the midday prayer is allowed to begin.
- Before Zawal: Salah should be avoided during the 15-minute window before Dhuhr.
- After Zawal Ends: Dhuhr prayer can be offered anytime before Asr prayer starts.
Other prayers, such as Fajr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha, are unaffected by Zawal.
Common Misconceptions About Zawal Time
1. Is It Haram to Pray at Zawal Time?
While it is discouraged (makruh) to pray during Zawal, it is not sinful (haram). However, following the Prophet’s guidance, Muslims are advised to pause their Salah for a few minutes.
2. Can I Read Quran or Make Dua During Zawal?
Yes. While formal prayers should be avoided, reading the Quran, making Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and supplications (Dua) are permissible.
3. Does Zawal Time Change Every Day?
Yes. Because the sun’s position shifts slightly daily, Zawal time varies by a few minutes throughout the year. Using an Islamic prayer app or checking a mosque’s timetable can help track the precise timing.
Practical Tips for Muslims in Sharjah
1. Use a Prayer App for Accuracy
- Apps like IslamicFinder, Muslim Pro, or local mosque apps provide accurate daily Zawal timings.
- These apps calculate prayer times based on astronomical data for Sharjah, ensuring precise prayer scheduling.
2. Avoid Starting Sunnah or Nafl Prayers Close to Zawal
- If you are engaged in Sunnah prayers, ensure they end before 12:09 PM in Sharjah.
- If unsure, wait until 12:24 PM before resuming prayers.
3. Plan Your Daily Routine Around Zawal
- If you work or have a busy schedule, plan lunch breaks or Quran recitations during this time instead of Salah.
- Many mosques in Sharjah announce Iqamah (congregational call for prayer) for Dhuhr right after Zawal ends.
Conclusion
Zawal time is an essential Islamic concept that influences daily prayer schedules, particularly Dhuhr Salah. In Sharjah, Zawal time for March 27, 2025, falls between 12:09 PM – 12:24 PM, after which the Dhuhr prayer begins.
While prayers are discouraged during Zawal due to historical, astronomical, and religious reasons, Muslims can still engage in Dua, Quran recitation, and Dhikr during this period. By staying informed and using technological tools, devout Muslims in Sharjah can align their prayers with Islamic teachings and enhance their spiritual practice.
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