I notice that some people spend their time playing from one prayer to the next. How do you advise such people, especially when they miss their prayers?

Question:
I notice that some people spend their time playing from one prayer to the next. How do you advise such people, especially when they miss their prayers? May Allah reward you with good.

Answer:
The forbidden type of play is not permissible, whether in small or large amounts. As for permissible play, a small amount is allowed, provided it does not separate one from the remembrance of Allah (Mighty and Majestic) or from seeking sustenance. However, leaving it is better, because a person in this life should seize his times in the obedience of Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) and in what benefits him. But if one engages in some permissible play during short periods that do not affect his response to the call to prayer or his seeking of sustenance, there is nothing wrong with it. Everything has its limits. As for being engrossed in it, or for a person to spend most of his time playing and forgetting the remembrance of Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He), this is not befitting for a Muslim. And if it occupies him from performing the prayer, it is forbidden.