Fear (Ṣalātul Khawf)

If there is intense fear due to an enemy [attack], a group of Muslims should block off the enemy while another group performs half the prayer in congregation [with the imām], i.e., [one rak’ah of a two rak’ah prayer, or] two rak’āt of a three or four rak’ah prayer.

After finishing, this group [excluding the imām] goes out to the enemy while the second group comes forth and prays the remainder of the prayer with the imām, after which he alone makes the closing salāms. This second group then goes back to the enemy, while the first group returns to finish the prayer, which they do without any recitation. After making their salāms, they go back to the enemy while the second group comes back and finishes their prayer, with recitation.

If the fear intensifies even more, everyone prays separately, while riding [their conveyances], with head movements toward any direction possible.

It is recommended to carry one’s weapons while performing the prayer of fear.