Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Shafi and Hanafi prayer times?

The main difference between Shafi and Hanafi prayer times affects the Asr prayer.

According to the Shafi school, Asr begins when the length of an object’s shadow is equal to its height, in addition to the length of its shadow at noon.

According to the Hanafi school, Asr begins later, when the shadow of an object is twice its height, in addition to the shadow at noon.

Because of this difference, Asr prayer time appears later when using the Hanafi method. All other daily prayers are generally the same between the two schools.

You should follow the juristic method practiced by your local mosque or trusted religious authority.

How are prayer times calculated in New York City?

Prayer times in New York City are calculated using astronomical data based on the city’s latitude, longitude, and time zone. The calculations determine when the sun reaches specific positions in the sky that define each prayer.

Because direct observation is not always practical, established calculation methods are used to estimate these timings accurately throughout the year.

Which calculation method should I use for NYC prayer times?

Many mosques and Islamic organizations in New York City commonly use the Muslim World League (MWL) or ISNA calculation methods. However, there is no single method universally adopted across all communities.

It’s best to follow the method used by your local mosque or trusted authority. You can switch calculation methods on this page to see how prayer times may differ.

Why do prayer times change every day in New York City?

Daily prayer times change because the position of the sun shifts throughout the year as the Earth orbits around it. In locations like New York City, this seasonal change is especially noticeable between summer and winter.

As daylight hours increase or decrease, the start times for prayers such as Fajr, Maghrib, and Isha adjust accordingly to remain aligned with their astronomical definitions.

When does fasting begin and end during Ramadan?

During Ramadan, fasting begins at Fajr and ends at Maghrib each day. Muslims stop eating and drinking at the start of Fajr and break their fast at sunset when Maghrib begins.

Because prayer times change daily, the exact start and end times for fasting also change throughout the month. It’s important to check the prayer times for your location each day to observe the fast correctly.