Qaza Namaz refers to those obligatory prayers that were not performed at their prescribed time or were delayed, and which must be offered later. In Islam, performing prayers on time is mandatory, but if a prayer is missed due to sleep, forgetfulness, or negligence, it becomes obligatory to perform it as soon as possible with sincerity and repentance. Further on, you will learn important details about this, such as how to perform Qaza prayers, the number of rakats (units of prayer), and other detailed information. So, stay tuned to this post.
What Is Qaza Namaz?
Qaza Namaz means failing to perform a mandatory prayer at its prescribed time. For example, if for some reason you don’t perform the Maghrib (sunset) prayer between its designated time and the time of the Isha (night) prayer, then that prayer will be considered a Qaza prayer, meaning it is still due. This is the simplest and most straightforward meaning of Qaza prayer; it cannot be explained any more simply. In Islam, this is what is called Qaza Salah.
Similarly, the Isha, Fajr, Zohar, and Asr prayers can also become Qaza prayers if missed.
Difference between Ada and Qaza prayer with example
In Islam, Salah (Namaz) must be offered at its prescribed time. Based on whether a prayer is performed on time or after its time has passed, it is classified as Ada or Qaza. Understanding this difference is very important for every Muslim.
1. What is Ada Prayer?
Ada (أداء) means performing something on time.
- An Ada prayer is any Salah that is offered within its fixed time.
- For example:
- Fajr prayed before sunrise
- Zuhr prayed after zawal
- Asr prayed before sunset
- Maghrib prayed after sunset
- Isha prayed before dawn
- Fajr prayed before sunrise
📌 Ruling:
Ada Salah is Farz and must be prayed on time. Performing prayers as Ada is the ideal and most beloved act to Allah.
📖 Evidence:
The Qur’an says:
“Indeed, prayer has been decreed upon the believers at fixed times.”
(Surah An-Nisa 4:103)
2. What is Qaza Prayer?
Qaza (قضاء) means making up for something missed.
- A Qaza prayer is a Salah that is offered after its prescribed time has ended.
- If a prayer is missed due to sleep, forgetfulness, or negligence, it becomes Qaza.
📌 Example:
- If Fajr was not prayed before sunrise → it must be prayed later as Qaza Fajr
- If Zuhr time ends without praying → Zuhr becomes Qaza
📌 Ruling:
- Performing Qaza Salah is Farz once a prayer is missed.
- Delaying Qaza without a valid reason is sinful.
📖 Hadith:
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever forgets a prayer or sleeps and misses it, let him pray it when he remembers.”
(Bukhari, Muslim)
Qaza Namaz in Quran & Hadith
This was also the practice of the companions(sahab e kiraam) of the Prophet ﷺ (peace be upon him): if they missed a prayer, they would perform it immediately as a make-up prayer and did not consider it permissible to postpone it. Abdullah ibn Shaqeeq (may Allah be pleased with him) narrates that the companions (of the Prophet) did not consider it permissible to delay a missed prayer beyond the time of the next prayer.
This shows that performing missed prayers is an important obligation, and the companions considered it a vital part of their religion and acted accordingly.
Qaza Namaz Rakat Chart (All Five Daily Prayers)
| Prayer | Qaza Rakats | Ruling |
| Fajr | 2 Rak‘ahs (Farz) | Only the Farz is made up; Sunnah is not obligatory to repeat |
| Zuhr | 4 Rak‘ahs (Farz) | Full Farz prayer must be performed as Qaza |
| Asr | 4 Rak‘ahs (Farz) | Same four Farz rak‘ahs are required |
| Maghrib | 3 Rak‘ahs (Farz) | Exactly three Farz rak‘ahs |
| Isha | 4 Rak‘ahs (Farz) | Only Farz is required for Qaza |
| Witr | 3 Rak‘ahs (Wajib) | Qaza of Witr is also mandatory |
Note:
In Qaza Salah, the number of rak‘ahs remains exactly the same as the original missed Farz or Wajib prayer. Sunnah and Nafl prayers do not require Qaza.
How to Pray Qaza Namaz?
Qaza Namaz is performed in the same manner as the original Farz prayer, with the only difference being the intention (niyyah). According to the Hanafi school, it is obligatory to make up missed Farz and Witr prayers as soon as one remembers them.
In missed (Qaza) prayers, there are no Sunnat or Nafl prayers; only the obligatory (Fard) prayers are performed, along with the Witr prayer of Isha.
Step-by-Step Method
- Make Wudu and ensure cleanliness, Qiblah direction, and correct prayer time.
- Stand and make niyyah in the heart for the specific missed prayer.
- Say Takbir (Allahu Akbar) and begin Salah.
- Recite Surah al-Fatiha and another Surah in the first two rak‘ahs (as in normal Farz prayer).
- Complete Ruku‘, Sujood, Qa‘dah, and Salam exactly like a regular Farz Namaz.
- Pray the same number of rak‘ahs as the missed Farz or Witr prayer.
Niyyah for Qaza Salah
The niyyah is made silently in the heart.
Example:
“I intend to pray the Qaza of the Farz of Zuhr for the sake of Allah.”
Note:
- There is no separate format for Qaza Namaz.
- Qaza prayers can be offered individually or in sequence, and they should not be delayed without a valid reason.
Method of Praying Qaza Salahs Quickly (For Years of Missed Prayers
Shortcut Hanafi Method
For those who have many years of missed prayers, the Hanafi method allows speeding up Qaza Namaz while maintaining validity:
- In Ruku‘ and Sujood, instead of reciting “Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem” and “Subhana Rabbiyal A‘la” three times, say it once, ensuring proper pronunciation.
- In the third and fourth rak‘ahs of Fard, instead of full Surah al-Fatiha, recite “SubhanAllah” three times, then proceed to Ruku‘.
- In Witr prayer, recite at least three verses or one short Surah after Surah al-Fatiha.
- In the final Qa‘dah, after Tashahhud, recite only “Allahumma salli ‘ala Sayyidina Muhammad wa Aalihi” before Salam.
- For Dua-e-Qunoot in Witr, recite “Rabbighfir li” once or three times.
Allowed Concessions (Tasbeeh, Surah, Dua)
These concessions are permissible shortcuts to complete multiple missed prayers quickly, especially when doing 20–25 rak‘ahs daily for long periods of missed Salah. The focus remains on validity and fulfilling obligation, not speed alone.
Reference from Fatawa
- Fatawa Rizvia, Vol 3, Page 622: Provides detailed guidance on shortening Qaza Salah for those with years of missed prayers.
- Hanafi Scholars: Emphasize performing all Fard and Wajib elements correctly while using these concessions to manage time effectively.
Qaza Namaz Time Rules
Allowed Times
Qaza Namaz can be performed anytime after the original prayer time has passed. For example:
- Fajr Qaza: After sunrise until Zuhr time.
- Zuhr Qaza: After Asr of the same day until next Fajr.
- Asr, Maghrib, and Isha Qaza: Can be offered any time before the next Fajr.
The key principle is to perform Qaza as soon as possible and not intentionally delay it.
Makrooh Times
Avoid performing Qaza during times when Nafl or voluntary prayers are Makrooh:
- After Fajr until sunrise
- After Asr until Maghrib
However, if the Qaza is due to a missed obligatory prayer, it overrides this restriction because it is a Fard duty.
Priority Over Nafl Prayers
Qaza Salah takes precedence over any voluntary or Nafl prayers. If you have missed prayers:
- Perform Qaza first before offering Sunnah or Nafl prayers.
- Delaying Qaza without a valid reason is considered sinful.
References:
- Abu Dawood, Hadith on missed prayers being a responsibility (Sunan Abu Dawood).
- Hanafi Fiqh: Qaza Salah is Fard and must be prioritized over voluntary acts.
How to Calculate Years of Missed Salah
To estimate your Qaza Namaz:According to the jurists, this is the correct method for calculating missed prayers.
- List all missed prayers day by day, month by month, or year by year.
- Multiply the number of missed days by the daily Fard Rakats:
- Fajr: 2 Rakats
- Zuhr: 4 Rakats
- Asr: 4 Rakats
- Maghrib: 3 Rakats
- Isha: 4 Rakats
- Fajr: 2 Rakats
This gives the total number of Rakats you need to perform.
Daily Plan to Clear Qaza Namaz
- Divide the total Qaza Rakats into manageable daily portions.
- For example, if you have 20 missed Rakats, you can perform 5-6 Rakats daily until all are completed.
- Ensure consistency and try not to skip days to avoid accumulation.
Practical Example
- Someone missed Zuhr for 30 days: 30 × 4 = 120 Rakats of Qaza.
- Daily plan: Perform 10-12 Rakats per day, gradually clearing the backlog in 10–12 days.
- Niyyah: Always intend in your heart that these prayers are Qaza of missed Salahs.
References:
- Hanafi Fiqh: Qaza prayers are obligatory (Fard) and should be completed as soon as possible.
- Sunnah: The Prophet ﷺ emphasized performing missed prayers promptly (Sunan Abu Dawood, Sahih al-Bukhari).
Is Qaza Namaz Accepted?
Acceptance of Qaza after Years
Even if a person has missed prayers for years, performing Qaza Namaz sincerely with correct intention (niyyah) is accepted by Allah. The reward depends on sincerity, focus, and consistency in completing the missed Salah.
Allah’s Mercy and Repentance
Allah is Most Merciful and loves those who repent. Performing Qaza along with tawbah (repentance) wipes away the neglect of past obligations. As the Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever misses a prayer, let him offer it as soon as he remembers” (Sunan Abu Dawood).
Is Delaying Qaza a Sin?
Deliberately postponing Qaza Namaz without a valid excuse is considered disliked (makruh) or sinful, as it leaves a Fard obligation unfulfilled. Scholars emphasize completing Qaza as soon as possible to avoid spiritual deficiency.
References:
- Sahih al-Bukhari, Sunan Abu Dawood: Obligatory nature of Qaza.
- Fatawa Hanafi: Qaza is a Fard and must be performed even after long delays.
Important Rules Related to Qaza Salah
Order (Tarteeb)
It is recommended to perform Qaza Namaz in the same sequence as the missed prayers. Start from the oldest missed Salah and proceed chronologically to the newest. This ensures that obligations are fulfilled in the proper order, maintaining the Sunnah practice.
Qaza for Women (After Menses)
Women should perform Qaza Namaz for the prayers missed during menstrual periods (haid) once their period ends. Missed prayers cannot be made up during menstruation, but it becomes obligatory to complete them afterward.
Qaza While Traveling
If prayers are missed due to travel, the traveler should perform Qaza Namaz as soon as possible after completing the journey. Shortened prayers (Qasar) during travel do not replace Qaza; missed prayers must still be completed according to the regular sequence.
Congregation vs Individual
Qaza Namaz can be performed individually or behind an Imam. If praying behind an Imam who is a resident, the person must perform full Rakats. If the Imam is also a traveler performing Qasr, the Qaza prayers can also be shortened accordingly.
References:
- Fatawa Hanafi: Rules of Qaza for men, women, and travelers.
- Sahih Bukhari & Abu Dawood: Guidance on maintaining order and performing missed prayers.
Common Mistakes in Qaza Namaz
Ignoring Qaza and Praying Nafl Only
Some people focus only on voluntary (Nafl) prayers and neglect missed obligatory prayers. This is incorrect, as Qaza Namaz is compulsory, and delaying it without valid reason reduces reward and may incur sin.
Delaying Without Valid Excuse
Postponing Qaza Namaz without a legitimate reason, such as illness or unavoidable circumstances, is considered disobedience. Islam emphasizes performing missed prayers as soon as possible.
Wrong Intention (Niyyah)
Praying Qaza without a clear intention for the specific missed Salah invalidates the act. Each missed prayer should be performed with the correct Niyyah in the heart, specifying the particular Salah being made up.
Conclusion
Performing Qaza Namaz is crucial for every Muslim who has missed obligatory prayers. On the Day of Judgment, each missed Salah will be accounted for, making it essential to fulfill these duties promptly.
By beginning today, you embrace hope, Allah’s mercy, and personal discipline. Regularly offering missed prayers strengthens faith and keeps your spiritual record in balance.
Call to Action: Start a daily Qaza Namaz plan, even if it’s a few Rakats at a time, and gradually complete all your missed prayers. Prioritize the oldest missed Salah first and maintain consistency to achieve full reward.
FAQs Qaza Namaz Guide (Hanafi)
How many rakats are in Qaza Namaz?
Qaza has the same rakats as the missed Fard or Witr (e.g., Fajr 2, Zuhr 4, Asr 4, Maghrib 3, Isha 4, Witr 3).
How do you perform Qaza Namaz?
Pray exactly like normal Fard/Witr, but make the intention (niyat) of Qaza.
Is it allowed to pray Qaza Namaz?
Yes, Qaza Namaz is obligatory (Farz) for missed prayers.
Is Qaza haram or makrooh?
No. Leaving prayer without excuse is sinful, but praying Qaza is wajib, not haram or makrooh.
How do I perform a Qada prayer?
Same method as normal prayer, with niyat like:
“I intend to pray Qaza of today’s Zuhr Fard for Allah.”
What is the Qaza Namaz diary?
A record to track missed prayers and mark them off as you complete Qaza.
What is Qaza known for?
Qaza means making up missed obligatory prayers.
Is it okay if I only pray Fard?
Yes, Fard is compulsory. Sunnah is highly recommended but Qaza Fard has priority.
Is it halal to shave legs?
Yes, it is halal for both men and women.
Is Qaza Namaz accepted?
Yes, Allah accepts sincere Qaza prayers.
Can I pray only 4 Fards for Isha?
Yes, but Witr is wajib and must also be prayed (current or Qaza).
Can I read Qaza Namaz anytime?
Yes, except sunrise, zenith, and sunset times.
Is Qaza haram in Islam?
No. Qaza prayer is compulsory, not haram.
How many rakats for Qaza Namaz?
Same as the original prayer missed.
How to pray Qaza Namaz for Witr?
Pray 3 rakats Witr Qaza with dua-e-qunoot.
How far is the distance for Qaza Namaz?
Distance is not related to Qaza; Qaza is due because of missed prayer.
Can I make up missed prayers?
Yes, making up missed prayers is wajib and should be done as soon as possible.