The Ruling on praying in Government Departments and abandoning the Mosques

Question :

Is it permissible for the employees to pray in their department, even though there is a mosque beside them, or must they pray in the mosque?

Answer:

The Sunnah, both by word and deed from the Messenger shows that prayer must be performed in congregation, in the mosque. And the Prophet intended to set fire to the houses of those who did not attend the prayer. It has also been reported from the Prophet's caliphs and the Companions, may Allah be pleased with them, that they performed the prayers in the mosques, in congregation. And it has been authentically reported from the Prophet that he said:

"Whoever heard the call (to prayer) and did not answer it, there is no prayer for him, unless he has an excuse (i.e. due to illness or travel).

It has also been authentically reported from him that a blind man said to him: "O Messenger of Allah! I have no one to lead me to the mosque; is there any license for me to pray in my house?" He said to him:
"Do you hear the call to prayer?»

He said: "Yes." The Prophet said:
Then answer it.

In another narration, he said:
"I do not find any license for you.

From this, it is clear that it is incumbent upon the employees in any (government) department or the like to perform the Zuhr prayer in congregation in the mosque which is near to them, in accordance with the Sunnah, in compliance with their obligation, in order to prevent any excuse for not attending the prayer in the mosques, in congregation and so as to avoid resembling the hypocrites.

And may peace and blessings be upon our Prophet, Muhammad and upon his family and Companions.