Question
On average, approximately how long should the fajr, maghrib and esha salaahs be when performed in congregation?
Answer
The duration of the Salaah should be according to the Sunnah. This can be gauged by the Sunnat Qiraat.
In Fajr and Zuhr Salaah:
It is Sunnah in the first two Rak’ats to recite any Surah from the “Tiwaalul Mufassal” i.e. from Surah Al-Hujuraat to Surah Al-Burooj (inclusive).
In Asr and Esha Salaah:
It is Sunnah in the first two Rak’ats to recite any Surah from Surah At-Taariq to Surah Al-Bayyina (inclusive).
Iin Maghrib Salaah:
It is Sunnah in the first two Rak’ats to recite any Surah from Surah Zilzaal to the last Surah of the Quraan.
As for the Tasbeeh in the Ruku’ and Sujood, an Imaam should only say it three times.
It is also necessary for the Imaam to take into consideration the weak and old Musallis lest they stop performing Salaah with Jama’ah in the Masjid.
Checked and Approved By:
Mufti Muhammed Saeed Motara Saheb D.B.
References
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( رد المحتار على الدر المختار ج١ ص ٦٤٥)