The Ruling on Delaying the 'Asr Prayer After Work

Question:
He has another question. He says: Many people return from their work near the time of the 'Asr prayer, and we find them sleeping, being negligent in performing it at its time and with the Muslim congregation. And if they do perform it, they do so at home. Is there a word to say?

Answer:
This is also reprehensible. Many people come after the end of their work near 'Asr and they lose the 'Asr prayer. This is a great evil, whether they lose it by sleeping, by sitting to eat, or otherwise. It is obligatory for him to start with the prayer, then return to his home for his need for rest, eating, and so on. For this reason, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: I single this out for mention because of the magnitude of the matter and because of the laxity that may occur in it, regarding the abandonment of the 'Asr prayer. He (peace and blessings be upon him) said: And he said: "Whoever digs the two wells, Fajr and 'Asr, will enter Paradise." So it is obligatory to be cautious. When he finishes his work, let him start with the prayer if the time has come for him. He may have lunch, eat whatever is available, there is no harm in that. Otherwise, he starts with the prayer and does not seek food. If food is present without him seeking it, and the prayer is present, he starts with the food that is present, then goes to the prayer. If he misses it, he is excused, but he should not seek its presence. As long as the prayer is present, he starts with it, and he should not resort to stratagems to seek food.