The Ruling on Combining the Maghrib and 'Isha' Prayers in the Rain

Question:
This questioner, Abu 'Abdullah, says: On a rainy night in winter, the rain became very heavy in our village, and we did not combine the prayers that day. During the 'Isha' prayer, the mu'adhdhin called out, "Pray in your homes." Did the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) say that, and did the Companions do so? What is the criterion for combining the prayers?

Answer:
The criterion for combining the Maghrib and 'Isha' prayers is if there is rain falling that wets the clothes, or if the ground is muddy and full of water and mud after the rain, then they combine the Maghrib and 'Isha' prayers. As for the caller saying, "Pray in your homes," that is something strange. Also, it appears that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) did not do this except while traveling; he only did it while traveling, or Ibn 'Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) called out with it. So the conclusion is that this is not resorted to; combining the Maghrib and 'Isha' prayers is sufficient. Yes.

The presenter:
May Allah reward you and bless you.