Offering the Maghrib Prayer when the sun sets

Q 2: How should we define the time when the Maghrib (Sunset) Prayer is due; is it due when the sun sets or at a certain hour? In fact, some Muslims living in Germany say that the sun there sets at night, at 10 P.M. What is the ruling in such a case? May Allah honor you.

A: The basic rule states that the Maghrib Prayer becomes due when the sun sets. Thus, (Part No. 5; Page No. 93) it is not permissible to offer the Maghrib Prayer until the sun is seen to set or most probably - in case it is cloudy or the like - is thought to have set.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.