Hanafi vs standard Asr time, explained
Asr begins when an object’s shadow reaches a set length. In the standard rule (Shafi’i, Maliki and Hanbali) that is the object’s length plus its noon shadow; in the Hanafi rule it is twice the object’s length plus its noon shadow, so Hanafi Asr is later. In NearMasjid, choose your Madhab in Prayer settings and it applies everywhere.
The shadow rule
At midday every object casts its shortest shadow. Asr begins once the shadow grows by a set amount:
- Standard (Shafi’i, Maliki, Hanbali): shadow = the object’s length + its noon shadow.
- Hanafi: shadow = twice the object’s length + its noon shadow.
Because the shadow has to grow further, Hanafi Asr starts later (PrayTimes.org).
Set it in NearMasjid
- Open the Prayer tab and tap the gear.
- Tap Madhab and choose Hanafi or Standard (Shafi / Maliki / Hanbali).
All prayer times, widgets and adhan notifications update. When you open a mosque, NearMasjid shows Asr for your setting and notes where the mosque’s own Asr rule is known.
Your Asr, your madhab
Set Hanafi or standard Asr once in NearMasjid. Mosque pages also show which Asr the mosque follows where known.
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Frequently asked questions
How much later is Hanafi Asr?
It depends on the date and your latitude. In London the gap is about 30 minutes in December and about 75 minutes in late June.
Which should I use?
Follow your madhab or your local mosque. This page explains the difference; it doesn’t give a ruling.