Does the Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) consistent practice of shortening the prayer while traveling indicate that shortening is obligatory?

Question:
He says: Honorable Shaykh, may Allah grant you success, does the Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) consistent practice of shortening the prayer serve as evidence for the position that shortening is obligatory?

Answer:
No, it does not indicate that shortening is obligatory. This is the view of the Zahiris; the Zahiris hold that shortening is obligatory. However, the majority do not; they say that shortening is better and completing the prayer is permissible. Yes.