What is the ruling on completing or leaving the prayers if something dangerous happens in the mosque?

Answer

Praise Be to Allah and Peace Be Upon His Messenger.

Referring to your question, originally, it is obligatory to complete the congregational prayers once you start it. Allah says: “Oh you who believe! Obey Allah, and obey the Messenger, and render not vain your deeds.” Muhammad: 33.

However, if something dangerous happens which threatens your life, and thus, it prevents from completing your prayer, it is allowed to leave it. It is also allowed not to go to the mosque if there are circumstances which endanger your life.

Shaikh Muhammad Ahmad Hussain, the General Mufti (Muslim Legal Scholar), in the Palestinian Legal Verdict Council, was once asked the following question: Is it allowed not to perform the Dhuhr and Asr prayers in a congregation, but in the workplace because I work on a farm for others and the mosque is far?

He answered: If it is difficult to go to the mosque because of a considered excuse as if one goes to the mosque, there will be consequences such as getting some crops stolen or damaged, they can pray in their workplace. Ibn Abbas (RAA) narrated that the prophet said: “If anyone hears him who calls for prayer and is not prevented from joining the congregation by any excuse,” (he was asked, what were the excuses? He replied: illness or fear).

However, a Muslim should do their best to perform the prayers in a congregation as long as they can. If there is any harm that may happen, if they go, which may lead to human loss, money loss, or honor loss, they are allowed not to go. If something happens during performing the prayer that may lead to death for example, they are allowed to leave the prayer.

It could be more appropriate if one quits a prayer to go and see what is happening. Then, he can inform others to complete their prayer or to quit it and leave.