And if it is said: ‘What you have presented from the reports, that performing the prayer at the beginning of its time is better, also supports these narrations. So how do you reconcile between these and those?’ We say: ‘As for the reports we presented earlier stating that prayer at the beginning of its time is better, they are referring to the time immediately after the period allowed for performing the supererogatory (nafilah) prayers. Because the nafilah prayers are only permitted until the passing of the amount of two footsteps (qadamayn) or an arm’s span (dhira‘). Once that measure has passed, it is not permitted to engage in supererogatory prayers; rather, it is necessary to begin with the obligatory (faridah) prayer. And that period is better than the time that follows it, which is the time for one who is compelled or has an excuse. And we have cited reports regarding all of this.’ What further clarifies this is what has been narrated:
Commentary #4