What is the default ruling regarding performing the prayer at the beginning of its time or at the end of it?

Question : What is the default ruling regarding performing the prayer, whether it should be at the beginning of its time or at the end of it, O Ahmad?

Answer : Yes, at the beginning of the time. The evidence is the verse: "Compete in good deeds and seek forgiveness from your Lord." And likewise the narrations that have come regarding this. And in the action of the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) at Tabah.