Prophet Muhammad used to raise his hands to shoulder level when 1- he started to pray, 2- when he said “Allahu akbar” before bowing in Ruku`, 3- and when he raised his head from Ruku`, and 4- when standing up after the first Tashahhud for the third Rak`ah.

It is recommended for the one who is late for the congregational prayer to come to the mosque in a calm and dignified manner. The one who was late for the prayer is not regarded as having caught up with the prayer in congregation unless he caught up with at least one Rak`ah of the prayer.

Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Do not pray when food is ready or when you are trying to stop yourself from doing either of the two things that invalidate Wudu (i.e., urination and defecation).” So, everything that may distract a person, keep him from being properly focused in his prayer, or worry him, should be dealt with before he starts to pray.

If the doctor has started to pray, then he is told of an emergency case and there is no one available to take care of it except him, then he must interrupt his prayer and treat the patient.

There is nothing wrong with one who is praying interrupting his prayer if an earthquake, fire or other disaster or calamity occurs, if he fears that something may happen as a result of that to himself or his property, or he fears for the life or property of someone who is protected according to sharia.