Islam 312: The Comprehensive Guide To Performing Salat (FOR MEN)

 

1. After you have performed your wudhu (ablution), you will then be pure enough to perform Salah. If you don't cleanse yourself, then your prayer will not be valid. It will just be a waste of time. Apart from cleansing your body, you must also ensure you are wearing clothes free of impurity (I.e., impurities from the body (sexual organs), alcohol, blood etc.). Also, there is a way you must dress while praying. For men, you must wear clothing that covers your body from your stomach down to and including your knees. It is also best that your shoulders are covered by whatever top you wear,

When all of the above are in place, you should stand upright and face the direction of the Ka'abah. This position is called the Qiyam, and the direction is called the Qiblah. You should ask around (from Muslims around if there are any, or you can find a mosque close-by and look at which direction it is pointed at. This will give you a general idea), also, there is this app for iOS that I use. The name is "Islamic Compass", you can search for it on the app store. And for those who don't use iOS, just google: "Islamic Compass for (insert your phone name and model here). 

2. Ensure there is a space of three fingers spread wide apart between your legs (I.e., your legs should not be too wide apart).

3. Like I said in my other blog posts, you should then make niyyah. This is the intention to pray. Some people say that you should whisper it, but I don't think that is necessary, all you have to do is make the intention in your heart. It's still the same.

4. After you make your intention, raise your hands up to your ears (the tips of your thumbs should be near the bottom of your earlobe). After you raise your hand, say the Takbiratul Ihram: "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest).

About the standing position while praying, you can stand whichever way you are comfortable. You can either place your right hand on your left hand and encircle your left hand with the thumb and little finger of your right hand (while the three fingers in the middle lay on your left hand), or you could just drop your hands by your side (whichever works for you, so long as you are not shy because of it). Whichever hand position you choose, you must look downward at the place where your forehead will touch the ground while you're prostrating (sujood). 

5. You then recite:

                                  سبحانك اللهم و بحمدك،  وتبارك اسمك، و تعالى جدك، ولا إله غيرك 

 

("Subhanaka allahumma wa bi hamdika wa tabara kasmuka wa ta'ala jadduka wa la ilaha ghairuka."

This means: “O Allah, how perfect You are and praise be to You. Blessed is Your name, and exalted is Your majesty. There is no god but You.” [Only recite this supplication, Subhanaka, at the beginning of the first Rak'ah])

 

Then recite:  "A'udhu billahi minash shaitanir rajim." silently (“I seek shelter in Allah from the rejected Satan.”). This is known as the Ta'awwudh.

After the Ta'awwudh recite:  "Bismillah Ir-rahman Ir-rahim." (“In the name of Allah, the most Gracious, the most Merciful). This is known as the Tasmiyah.

 

6. After the Tasmiyah, you recite Surah Al-Fatiha from the Qur'an. It is the first chapter in the Qur'an.

Surah Al-Fatiha:

"Al hamdu lil lahi rabbil 'alamin. Arrahmanir rahim. Maliki yawmiddin. Iyyaka na'budu wa iyyaka nasta'in. Ihdinas siratal mustaqim. Siratal ladhina an'amta'alaihim, ghairil maghdubi'alaihim wa lad dhallin. (Amin)"

"All praises and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds, the most Gracious, the most Merciful; Master of the Day of Judgment. You alone we worship, from You alone we seek help. Guide us along the straight path - the path of those whom You favored, not of those who earned Your anger or went astray.”

 

You have to recite Surah Al-Fatiha in every cycle of the prayer (Raka'a) if you are praying alone. The imam usually recites loudly if you are praying in congregation, so you should not recite it with him. It is forbidden, even if you can't hear what he is saying.

 

7. After Surah Al-Fatiha, you recite any other chapter from the Qur'an. We'll take Surah An-Nas:

You Start With:  "Bismillah Ir-rahman Ir-rahim"

Surah An-Nas: "Qul a'uzu birabbin naas, malikin naas, ilaahin naas, min sharril was waasil khan naas, al ladhi yuwas wisu fee sudoorin naas, minnal jinnati wan naas"

"Say: I seek refuge with the Lord and Cherisher of Mankind, The King (or Ruler) of Mankind, The Allah (or Judge) of Mankind, From the mischief of the Whisperer (of evil), who withdraws (after his whisper), (the same) who whispers to mankind, among Jinns and among Men."

8. After reciting the chapter (or three verses, or verse equal to three verses) from the Qur'an, say "Allahu akbar", then bow (Rukoo').

While you're bowing, you should ensure your body is parallel to the ground, and your hands should push your knee back so it is at a ninety-degree angle. You shiuld keep your eyes on the point of sujood and your head should be in line with your back. When you are in the bowing position, say: "subhana Rabbiyal Azeem" (How Perfect is my Lord, the Supreme) three times.

9. Stand up from the bowing position whilst saying:  "Sami'Allahu liman hamidah" (Allah hears those who praise Him)' and then "Allahumma Rabbana Walakal Hamdu" (Our Lord, praise be to You).

10. After this, prostrate on the floor (sujood) whilst saying: "Allahu Akbar". You must touch the ground with your hands first before your knees do. Then you ensure your forehead and the tip of your nose touch the ground, and then You say: "subhana Rabbiyal A'la" (How Perfect is my Lord, the Highest) three times. 

While in the bowing position, look down at your nose. Your hands must be away from your body (by your side and facing the Qiblah) and they must also touch the ground, and they should be by your ears (see step four). You should also sure that your toes are bent and they are facing the Qiblah.

11. After bowing, sit up whilst saying: "Allahu Akbar". Your knees should be bent under you and your hands should rest on your thighs. You should spread your left foot on its nape and sit upon it, but your right leg should be upright with the toes bent. Then you say: "Rabbighfir li" ("O my Lord! Forgive me." Then say "Allahu Akbar" and prostrate again. Recite "Subhana Rabbiyal A'al" three times again then stand up (raise your knees before your hands).

This completes one Rak'ah or cycle of Salah.  All the other cycles you'll perform (depending on the prayer) will be performed in the exact same way, except that you will not recite Subhanaka at the beginning. 

12. In the second cycle (after the two sujood's of the second cycle), you won't stand up, instead, you'll sit up again and form a fist with your right hand with your index finger sticking out. Your left hand should remain on your left thigh. Then you recite tashahud:

 

"At-Tahiyyatu lillahi                              “Greetings, prayers and

was- Salawatu wat-Tayyibatu.              goodness belong to Allah.

As-Salamu ' alaika                                                Peace be on you,

ayyuhannabiyyu                                                               O Prophet

wa rahmatullahi                                          and the mercy of Allah

wa barakatuhu.                                                    and His blessings.

Assalamu 'alaina wa’ala                              Peace be on us and on

ibadil-Lahis -Salihin                      the righteous servants of Allah

ash hadu al-La ilaha                                           I bear witness that

il-Lal lahu                                                there is no god but Allah,

wa ash hadu anna                                           and bear witness that

Muhammadan abduhu                          Muhammad is His servant

wa rasuluhu."                                                        and Messenger.”

 

Depending on the salat you are performing, you will either say "Allahu Akbar" and stand up and go over the cycles again (Dhuhr (four cycles), Asr (four cycles), Maghrib (three cycles) and Isha (four cycles), or as for the Fajr prayer (two cycles) you will remain seated after the tashahud and recite Assalatul-Ibrahimiyah.

(NOTE: This might be too cumbersome for you initially, so, I suggest you memorise the tashahud alone initially, then when you have memorised it well enough, you can proceed to memorise the Assalatul-Ibrahimiyah).

(Assalatul-Ibrahimiyah:

"Allahumma salli 'ala Muhammadin            “O Allah, let Your mercy come upon Muhammad

Wa 'ala ali Muhammadin                                 and the family of Muhammad

Kama sallaita 'ala Ibrahima                             as You let it come upon Ibrahim

wa 'ala ali Ibrahima                                           and the family of Ibrahim

wa barik 'ala Muhammadin                             O Allah, bless Muhammad

wa 'ala ali Muhammadin                                  and the family of Muhammad

Kama barakta ' ala Ibrahima                          as You blessed Ibrahim

Wa ' ala ali Ibrahima                                         and the family of Ibrahim.

Fil a'lamina Innaka                                           Truly You are

hamidun Majid."                                               Praiseworthy and Glorious.”

 

After this say silently: "Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min adhabi jahanam wamin adhabil qabri wamin sharri fitnatil mahya wal mamat wamin sharri fitnatil masihid dajjaal. Rabbi-ghfir li waliwalidayya, rabbi-rhamhuma kama rabbayani saghira."

 

اللهم إني أعوذ بك من عذاب جهنم، و من عذاب القبر، و من فتنة المحيا و الممات، و من فتنة المسيح الدجال، رب اغفر لي  و لوالدي  رب ارحمهما  كما ربياني  صغيرا.

This means: “O Allah! I seek refuge in You from the torment of the Hellfire, from the torment of the grave, from the trials and afflictions of life and death, and from the deception of the False-Christ. O my Lord! Grant me and my parents forgiveness, and bestow Your mercy upon them, just as they brought zme up when I was small.”)

After the tashahud (and the Assalatul Ibrahimyah), turn your face to the right, saying: "Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah" (peace and the mercy of Allah be on you) and then turn your face to the left and repeat the same words. This completes the two-raka'ah Salah.

 

*In the four raka'ah Salah's, the imam won't recite Surah Al-Fatiha (if you're praying in congregation), so you'll have to recite it yourself silently. Silently enough for you to hear, but not loud enough for the person beside you to hear.

* After reading this, the best thing to do (and the easiest way to learn) is to go to a mosque (like I did) while they are praying, then stand in the distance and watch them. Or just go to the internet and download a video of someone praying (I'd really love to do a video for you, but I can't do that now). Anyways, all you have to do is continue to learn. Keep learning! But don't just learn alone, also put it into practice and gain experience on the various fields!

* ( and ) stand for things that are not entirely necessary when you're first starting off, but you should incorporate them as time goes by.

Islam 312: Things To Know About Salat (Part Two)

The Importance Of Prayer In Congregation:

It is Essential (Wajib) upon every sane, adult and capable person to offer the Prayer along with the congregation. One who leaves it without a valid excuse even once, is an offender and deserves punishment. One who leaves it several times is a proclaimed sinner and disqualified from giving witness, and will be punished severely.

The Holy Prophet Mohammed (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "My heart desires that I should command some young men to gather a lot of fuel (firewood), and then I may go to those who pray in their homes without an excuse, and burn their houses." (Muslim)

The following circumstances exempt one from attending Prayer in congregation:-

A patient who faces difficulty in going to the mosque.

An invalid person whose leg is cut off, is paralyzed or blind.

One who is too old and incapable of going to the mosque.

Torrential rain, severe sludge, extreme darkness or storm on the way.

Fear of losing property or food.

A person who cannot repay his debts, fearing the creditor.

Fear of an oppressor.

A person in urgent need to relieve himself of stool, urine or to break wind.

Fear of losing conveyance.

Presence of food whilst having the dire urge to eat.

Attending a sick person, whilst fearing that going for congregation will cause difficulty for the patient or make the patient nervous.

Rules Of Congregational Prayer:

When the time for congregational Prayer approaches, the Caller (Muazzin) should announce the “Iqamah” - and the “Imaam” and the followers should get up and make proper rows, when the “Muazzin” reaches words "Hayya alas-Salaah Hayya alal-Falaah". The “Imaam” must advise the followers to maintain proper rows. If the followers keep their heels in line with each other, the row will be set straight.

It is obligatory for the follower to have the intention in his heart, that he is offering Prayer in the leadership of the particular “Imaam”. The follower must finish his "Takbeer Tahreemah" after the “Imaam” has finished saying it. All that is Obligatory (Farz) in Prayer, must be compulsorily carried out in the leadership of the “Imaam”. If a follower performs an obligatory act and finishes it before the “Imaam” has started it - and does not offer it again with or after the “Imaam” - it will render the Prayer void. For example, if a follower offers prostration before the “Imaam” and the “Imaam” has not yet come into prostration while the follower lifts up his head - and if he does not (again) offer the prostration with the “Imaam” or after the “Imaam” - it will render his Prayer void.

If the “Imaam” forgets to offer the first Qaadah, and starts getting up, the followers should remind him (give “Luqmah”) only if he is nearer to the sitting position so that the “Imaam” may revert to the Qaadah. If the “Imaam” is nearer to standing upright or has already stood up fully, the followers must not remind him, for it will invalidate the Prayer of the person who gives the reminder. If the “Imaam” pays heed to such a reminder, his Prayer will also become void, resulting in the invalidation of Prayer of all the followers too.

If there are two or more followers, they should stand behind the “Imaam”. If there is only one follower, he should stand next to the “Imaam”, on the right. Standing next to the “Imaam” implies that the follower's ankles should not be ahead of that of the “Imaam”. If only one follower was praying with the “Imaam”, and another one joins, the “Imaam” should take a step forward and the newcomer should stand next to the follower. Alternatively, the follower may step backwards by himself or the newcomer may pull him back - both ways are permitted.

It is Undesirable (Makrooh) to stand in the back rows if there is space available in the front rows. Therefore if one sees that there is space in the front rows, while the back rows are full, he should cleave through the back rows to join the front rows. It has been observed that some persons leave the front rows and purposely sit in the back rows. How good or bad is this deed of theirs? Note what the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said about this: “If people knew what is the reward for the “Azaan” and the first row, everyone would crave for it - to the extent that they would draw lots for it.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) also said: "People will always keep going back from the first row to the extent that Allah the Supreme will drive them away from mercy, and throw them in the fire." 

Rules regarding the Masbook (The One who joins the prayer late):

A person who joins the congregational Prayer after the first or more Cycles (Rakaats) have already been offered, is called Masbook. The Masbook must not end his Prayer with the Salaam said by the “Imaam” but continue and offer the “Rakaats” which he had missed out.

If the late comer finds the “Imaam” in the bowing position (Ruku), he should first offer the “Takbeer Tahreemah” while standing, and then while proclaiming another “Takbeer” proceed towards the bow. If he proceeds towards the bow while proclaiming the first “Takbeer”, his Prayer is void. If he joins with the “Imaam” in the bow, he is deemed to have attained that Cycle (Rakaat). (So if he joins the “Imaam” in the first bow, he is no longer a Masbook).

If a person joins the Prayer after the bow of the first Cycle (Rakaat), or at the beginning of the second Cycle, he should get up after the “Imaam” says the "Salaam" - and after reciting the "Sanaa", "Taawuz", “Tasmiyah”, Surah alFatehah etc, complete the first Cycle and then sit for the Qaadah to complete his Prayer. If a person joins the Prayer in the third Cycle (of a four Cycle Prayer), he should offer 2 more “Rakaats” fully, to complete his Prayer i.e. he must recite the Surah alFatehah and a small Surah (or equivalent) after it, in each Cycle.

If he joins during the third Cycle after the bow, but before the bow of the fourth Cycle, he has to offer 3 Cycles more. He should get up after the “Imaam” says the "Salaam" - and the after reciting the "Sana", "Tawuz", “Tasmiyah”, Surah alFatehah plus a small Surah (or equivalent), complete the first Cycle which is in fact his second Cycle in counting - so he must then sit for the Qaadah to complete this Cycle. In the Qaadah he should recite only the “Tahiyyaat” and “Tashahhud”, and get up for the third Cycle. In this third Cycle he should recite the “Tasmiyah”, Surah alFatehah a small Surah (or equivalent) and complete it, and without offering Qaadah get up for the fourth Cycle. In this fourth Cycle he should recite “Tasmiyah” and only Surah alFatehah in his standing position (Qiyaam) - and then complete the Prayer ending with Salaam in the Qaadah.

The Masbook should not get up immediately upon the Imaam's proclamation of the first Salaam. He should wait to listen to the second Salaam and then get up in order to be sure that the “Imaam” will not offer the Sajdah Sahv (extra prostratons upon forgetting). (If the “Imaam” has to offer the Sajdah Sahv, the Masbook should follow the “Imaam” until the next Salaam).

If the Masbook unintentionally says the Salaam along with the “Imaam”, he need not offer Sajdah Sahv for this mistake. If he offers the Salaam after the “Imaam” has, Sajdah Sahv will become Essential upon him. He must complete his Prayer and offer the Sajdah Sahv at its end. 

The Witr Prayer and Qunoot Supplication:

It is reported in Saheeh Muslim by Abdullah ibn Abbas (may Allah be well pleased with him) that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) offered 3 Cycles (Rakaats) in the Witr Prayer. It is also reported in Abu Dawood and Tirmidhi hadith collections, by Hazrat Ayesha (may Allah be well pleased with her) that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to offer 3 Cycles in the Witr Prayer.

The Witr Prayer is Essential (Wajib) in the Night (Isha) Prayer.

At first complete 2 Cycles as normal, and get up for the 3rd Cycle immediately after reciting the “Tashahhud” in the Qaadah. In the 3rd Cycle, do not recite the "Sana" or "Tawuz". Recite Surah alFatehah plus a small Surah (or equivalent), and then proclaiming “Allahu Akbar”, raise both hands to the ears and then fold them again below the navel. Now recite the Qunoot Supplication, as under:-

Allahuma innaa nastaeenuka wa nastaghfiruka wa numinu bika wa natawakkalu alayka wa nusnee alaykal-khayra, wa nashkuruka wa laa nakfuruka wa nakhlaoo wa natruku maiy- yafjuruk, Allaahumma iyyaka nabudu wa laka nusallee wa nasjudu wa ilayka nasaa wa nahfidu wa narjoo rahmataka wa nakhshaa azaabaka inna azaabaka bilkuffari mulhiq.

"O Allah! We seek Your help and seek Your forgiveness - and we believe in You and rely on You - and we praise You with all goodness - and we are thankful to You and not ungrateful to You - and we separate from and forsake whoever offends You. O Allah! You alone we worship and for You only we offer the Prayer and the prostration. And towards You only do we rush, and present ourselves for service. And we hope for Your mercy and fear Your punishment. Indeed Your punishment will grasp the disbelievers."

Reciting the Qunoot Supplication and proclaiming the “Takbeer” for it – both these are Essential (Wajib). If one forgets to recite the Qunoot Supplication and proceeds for the bow, he should not return to it but should offer Sajdah Sahv at the end.

Those who are unable to recite Qunoot Supplication should recite the following supplication:

Rab-banaa Aatinaa Fid-dunyaa Hasanatan Wa Fil Aakhirati Hasanatan Wa Qinaa'Azaaban Naar.

"O our Rabb! We seek of You good in this world and good in the Hereafter and safety from the torment of Hell." Or they should recite “Allahummaghfirlana” thrice. 

* You dont have to memorise all the prayers immediately, you'll be pushing yourself too hard and you wont come out with any much results. I suggest you take it slowly; jot them down and take your time in memorising them. But you should keep the essentials, obligations, sunnah and makrooh of prayer in mind, and you should start to apply them. With time, memorise the Qunoot, supplications, and Qur'an verses. It took me some time to get it all too. 

* I'm telling you all of this (the obligations, sunnah, makrooh and essentials) because the Mallam who started to teach me about islam (before we moved away) didn't tell me all this initially. He just gave me a guide on how to pray. I wish he had told me all about the do's and dont's from the get go, then it would have been easy for me, but I found out all I had to in the end (that's all that matters). So, don't relent; read, read, read and read again! Look for blogs and websites like these and continue to find out more about the religion Allah has guided you to. Your reversion is the best thing that has and will ever happen to you! I wish you luck on your journey....!

In the next post, I'll tell you about how to pray... The movements, the things you'll say and all.

Islam 312: Things To Know About Salat (Part One)

Things To See To Before Praying:

Purity - The body and the clothes of the one offering Prayer must be pure. Further, the place of worship must be clean. One must either have a bath (if the bath is compulsory) or else just the ablution (which is a must).

Concealing the body - This is also called Satr-e-Aurat. That is to conceal / cover the necessary parts of the body. For men, this consists of the body between the navel up to and including the knees. For women this consists of the entire body, except the face, hands and soles of the feet. Women must hide their faces from strangers whilst not in Prayers. Wearing clothes that are so thin that body colour is exposed will make the Prayer void. Similar is the case of the head scarf if the shine of hair is revealed. In fact, wearing such clothes is prohibited even outside Prayer.

Direction towards the “Qiblah” (Kaaba) - this is called "Istiqbaal-e-Qiblah". The face and the chest must be directed towards the “Qiblah”, whilst offering Prayer.

The Time of Prayer - proper timing is the fourth condition of Prayer. The time for Dawn Prayer starts from actual dawn and ends at the beginning of sunrise. It should be offered within this period. The time for Afternoon Prayer starts from the time the sun crosses its zenith until the shadow of any object becomes double its actual length. (The actual length means the length of a shadow when the sun is at the meridian - i.e. half distance between sunrise and zenith.

The time for Evening (Asr) Prayer starts from the time the Afternoon (Zohr) Prayer ends, and finishes at sunset. The period of 20 minutes before sunset is undesirable (Makrooh), therefore one should complete the Evening Prayer before this. If the Prayer could not be offered before this due to some reason, then one should offer it during this period before sunset. The time for the Sunset (Maghrib) Prayer starts immediately after the setting of the sun, and ends upon the disappearance of twilight. The period for Night (Isha) Prayer begins upon the disappearance of twilight and lasts up to dawn. However, delaying it after midnight (half time between sunset and sunrise) is Disliked (Makrooh).

Intention (Niyah) - This is the fifth condition of Prayer. Shariah classifies “Niyah” as the firm intention within the heart. The lowest rank of such resolve is that when a person is asked about which Prayer he is offering, he should be able to answer the question promptly. If he answers after some consideration, the Prayer is void.

It is better (Mustahab) to declare the “Niyah” in a soft voice. There is no condition as to the language in which this should be said. It is better to have the intention in mind while proclaiming the “Takbeer Oola” (the first declaration of Allah's greatness, at beginning of Prayer).

“Takbeer Tahreemah” (declaration of Allah's greatness, which prohibits other actions except the Prayer.) - This is the sixth condition of Prayer. This means to recite aloud "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest) to begin the Prayer.

Prayer becomes void if the word "Allah" is pronounced as "Aaallah" or if the word "Akbar" is pronounced as "Akbaar". Rather the person will become an infidel if the words are purposely pronounced this way whilst knowing their derogatory meanings.

THE OBLIGATORY (FARZ) ACTS IN PRAYER:

An obligatory act is one that cannot be left out from Prayer, as it renders the Prayer void. There is no expiation for forgetting an obligatory act. The only solution is to offer the entire Prayer again.

There are seven Obligations in Prayer:

The “Takbeer-e-Tahreemah” i.e. pronouncing "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest). This is in fact one of the conditions of Prayer, but it has such a close relation with the actions of Prayer that it is also considered one of the Obligations of Prayer. If any of the conditions of Prayer are absent at the time of pronouncing “Takbeer-e-Tahreemah”, the Prayer will become void. If the Follower (Muqtadi) pronounces "Allah" along with the “Imaam”, but finishes saying "Akbar" before the “Imaam” does, then his Prayer will be void. If the follower finds the “Imaam” in bowing position, he must first say the “Takbeer-e-Tahreemah”, then again pronounce “Takbeer” and join the “Imaam” in bow. If a person secures the bow in the first “Rakaat”, he will get the reward of the “Takbeer Oola”.

Qiyaam (standing upright) is obligatory in Prayer. The person must remain standing as long as the Qur'an is being recited. Qiyaam will only be excused if the person cannot stand, or is unable to prostrate, or the illness may get aggravated or if the pain is unbearable. It is not permitted to forego standing due to ordinary fever or bearable pain. Its importance can be understood from the fact that if the patient can stand in Prayer with the help of a stick, or a servant or by leaning next to a wall, it becomes obligatory to do so. Further, if the patient can stand for a little while it becomes obligatory to stand and say "Allahu Akbar" and then complete the rest of the Prayer while seated.

Recitation of Qur'an. It is obligatory to properly pronounce each alphabet and vowel in such a manner that each one becomes distinct from another, and to recite it in such a way that the reciter can hear it. Just moving the lips does not suffice for recitation. Recitation means to recite with a voice loud enough to be heard at least by oneself. If there is no noise around (such as rain, moving machinery) and yet one cannot hear one's own recitation, then it will make the Prayer void. It is obligatory to recite one complete verse in the first two Cycles (Rakaats) of Obligatory (Farz) Prayer, and in every Rak’aat of Witr and Voluntary (Nafil) Prayers. Since the recitation by the “Imaam” suffices for all, it is prohibited for the follower to recite behind the “Imaam”, whether the “Imaam” is reciting audibly or softly (inaudible to others).

Ruku or bowing. The minimum requirement for Ruku is to bend at least to the extent that if one extends the hands they would reach the knees. The best is to straighten the back horizontally to the ground with the head in line, and the hands holding the knees.

Sujood i.e two prostations in each “Rakaat”. The essence of prostration is that the forehead and the nose bone must touch the ground. Keeping the under portion of one toe of each foot upon the ground is a condition in prostration. If the feet are lifted from the ground or if only the tip of the toes touch the ground during the entire prostration, the Prayer will become void.

Qaadah Akhirah or the Last Sitting Position. It is obligatory to sit in this position after completing all Cycles (Rakaats) for a period during which one can recite the entire “Tashahhud”. If one offers Sajdah Sahv (the prostrations upon forgetting an Essential act) it becomes obligatory to again remain seated for the same length of time in which one can recite the entire “Tashahhud”.

Khurooj bisun'ihi - that is to proclaim "Salaam" (peace) towards both sides, to end and exit from Prayer.

It is obligatory to maintain the chronological order in offering Qiyam, Ruku, Sujood, Qirat, and Qaadah Akhirah. Further it is obligatory to follow the “Imaam” in all obligatory matters. 

THE ESSENTIALS (WAAJIBAAT) OF PRAYER:

A “Wajib” is an act that is considered Essential in Prayer. Forgetting an Essential renders the Prayer void but there is an expiation for it, called the Sajdah Sahv (two prostrations upon forgetting). Abandoning an Essential on purpose will also render the Prayer void for which the only solution is to offer the entire Prayer again.

The following are Essential (Wajib) in Prayer:

Pronouncing “Allahu Akbar” for the “Takbeer Tahreemah”

Reciting the complete Surah alFatehah in the first two Cycles (Rakaats) of the Obligatory Prayer and in every “Rakaat” of other Prayers.

Reciting at least a small Surah or one or two verses which are equal to three small verses, in the first two Cycles (Rakaats) of the Obligatory Prayer and in every “Rakaat” of other Prayers.

Offering the Ruku only once in every “Rakaat”.

Offering the Sajdah only twice in every “Rakaat”

Offering the Qawmah (standing upright after the bow).

Offering the Jalsah (sitting upright between the two prostrations)

Resting the nose bone and the forehead both together on the ground, during prostration.

Resting the under portion of three toes (big toe and two adjacent toes) of each foot on the ground, during prostration.

Waiting during Ruku, Qawmah, Sajdah and Jalsa for at least the period in which one can recite "SubhaanAllah" once.

Offering "Qaadah Oola" - that is to sit after two “Rakaats” in the Prayer that has three or four “Rakaats”.

Reciting the "Tahiyyaat" and "Tashahhud" in both Qaadahs (sitting).

Not reciting anything after reciting “Tashahhud” in the first Qaadah.

Not offering Qaadah after the first “Rakaat” and not to offer Qaadah in the third “Rakaat” of any Prayer which has two or four “Rakaats”. (Please note Qaadah will be offered at end of third “Rakaat” in a Prayer having three “Rakaat”).

For the “Imaam” to recite the Qur'an audibly (in the first 2 “Rakaats” only) in the Dawn, Sunset and Night Prayers (in congregation) – and for Friday and Eid Prayers.

For the “Imaam” not recite the Qur'an aloud (but only softly) in the Afternoon and Evening Prayers (in congregation).

For the followers to remain silent when the “Imaam” is reciting the Qur'an, whether audibly or softly.

For the followers to emulate the “Imaam” in all matters except in reciting the Qur'an.

Not to have an unnecessary time gap between the offering of two Obligations, or between two Essentials or between an Obligation and an Essential. Gap is defined as the time in which one can recite "Subhaanallah" thrice.

Saying the word "Salaam" on both sides when offering the Salaam to exit from Prayer.

Reciting "Duae-Qunoot" (The supplication in reverence) in the Witr Prayer, and to say "Takbeer" (Allahu Akbar) before this supplication.

Offering six "Takbeer" (Allahu Akbar) for the Prayers of the two Eids, and to offer “Takbeer” before proceeding to bow in the second “Rakaat” of Eid Prayers.

Offering the Sajdah Tilawat (prostration in Qur'an recitation) upon reciting a verse having such a command.

Offering each Obligation and Essential at its proper assigned position

Offering all the components of Prayer with calm and confidence.

Sajdah Sahav

It becomes Essential (Wajib) to offer 2 (additional) prostrations, upon forgetting any of the Essential (Wajib) acts, or upon repeating any Essential act or upon delaying the offer of an Obligatory (Farz) act. Sajdah Sahav is offered in the last Qaadah after reciting the “Tashahhud”, by first saying the "Salaam" towards the right shoulder and then offering 2 prostrations, after which the entire Qaadah should be completed (including Tahiyyat, “Tashahhud”, Durood and Supplication) and ending with "Salaam" on both sides.

If a person remains silent between the recitation of an additional Surah (or equivalent) after having read the Surah al-fatihah for a time in which one can recite "SubhaanAllah" thrice, it will become “Wajib” to offer Sajdah Sahav. In the first Qaadah of the Obligatory (Farz), Essential (Wajib) or Emphasised Sunnah (Muakkadah) Prayers, if one recites the following words by mistake - "Allahumma Salle Ala Muhammad" or "Allahumma Salle Ala Syedna" - it will become Essential (Wajib) to offer Sajdah Sahav.

THE SUNNAH ACTS OF PRAYER:

Raising both hands up to the ears while saying the “Takbeer Tahreemah” (Allahu Akbar).

Keeping the palms facing the “Qiblah” while saying the “Takbeer Tahreemah”.

Keeping the face directed towards the “Qiblah”, while saying the “Takbeer Tahreemah”.

Folding the hands below the navel, by catching the wrist of the left hand with the right.

Softly reciting “Sanaa”, “Taawuz” and “Tasmiyah” and “Aameen” after Surah alFatehah.

Reciting “Tasmiyah” softly, at the beginning of each “Rakaat”.

Announcing “Takbeer” while moving from one position of Prayer, to another

For the “Imaam” to pronounce all “Takbeers”, “Tasmeey” and “Salaam” as audibly as required.

Reciting only Surah alFatehah in the third and the fourth Cycle of the Obligatory Prayer.

Reciting “Tasbeeh” (Purity) thrice during the bow (Ruku) and in the prostrations (Sujood).

Catching hold of the knees while bowing (Ruku), whilst keeping the fingers wide open.

Whilst in Ruku, to keep the legs straightened and the head and the back in a horizontal line.

For the “Imaam” to say the “Tasmeey” while rising up from the bow (Ruku) and the follower to say “Rabbanaa lakal-Hamd” after rising up from the bow.

For a person offering Prayer alone, to say both “Tasmeey” and “Rabbanaa lakal-Hamd” upon rising from the bow.

While proceeding for prostration, to first place the knees onto the ground, followed by the hands, the nose and lastly the forehead.

While getting up from prostration, to first lift the forehead, then the nose, followed by the hands and lastly the knees.

While in prostration, to keep the arms apart from the sides and the belly away from the thighs.

While in prostration, to keep all toes of both feet firmly pressed on the ground, and pointing towards the “Qiblah”.

To rise up for the 2nd (or following) Cycle by placing the hands on the knees and transferring the weight onto the feet.

In between the two prostrations, keeping the right foot erect, the left foot spread out and to sit upon it.

While sitting, to keep the hands on the thighs with the fingers in their natural position.

Raising the index finger when reciting “Tashahhud”, upon reaching the word “laa” and to put it down at bring all fingers back to normal position when reaching the word “Illa”.

Reciting “Durood Shareef” and any “Masura” supplication in the last Qaadah.

Saying “Salaam” first towards the right and then towards the left.

The acts listed above are the Sunnah (traditions) of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). If any of them are missed out by mistake or left out on purpose, it will not invalidate the Prayer. However it is not permitted to deliberately abandon the Sunnah.

The following actions break the Prayer, and the Prayer must be offered afresh:-

Talking to anyone, on purpose or by mistake.

Saluting anyone or replying to a greeting.

Coughing or clearing the throat, without a valid excuse.

Replying to someone's sneezing.

Eating or drinking whilst in Prayer.

Turning the chest away from the direction of the “Qiblah”, without a valid excuse.

Crying (or exclaiming) because of some pain or trouble.

Breaking of the ablution.

Reading the Qur’an while looking at it.

Making a serious mistake in Qur’an recitation or in the remembrances.

Committing an action with both hands which leads others to believe that the person is not in Prayer.

Performing an unrelated action thrice, in any one position of the Prayer, will invalidate it. For example to scratch by lifting the hand once and let it down, then again lift up the hand and let it down and then do it a third time - all this whilst in one position , would break the Prayer. If the hand is lifted just once and the person scratches more than once, it will be counted as only one action.

Clearing the throat without valid excuse or proper reason, where at least two syllables are heard (For example Aah) will make the Prayer invalid. If there is an excuse (such as body's urge to clear the throat) or if there is a proper reason (such as to clear his voice, or to remind the “Imaam” of his mistake, or to inform others that one is in Prayer) it would not invalidate the Prayer.

MAKROOH (DISLIKED/ UNDESIRABLE) ACTS DURING PRAYER:

Playing with ones clothes, beard or body.

Wrapping up the clothes, e.g. lifting the clothes from front or behind while proceeding for prostration.

Letting the clothes hang - e.g. placing a handkerchief or cloak over the head or shoulder in such a way that their edges are hanging down.

Having sleeves rolled up more than half way beyond the wrists.

Offering the Prayer while in acute need of relieving oneself of stool, urine, or needing to break wind.

Gazing upwards, or turning the face looking here and there.

Cracking the finger joints or inserting the fingers of one hand into the fingers of another.

Placing the hand on the waist. (This must be avoided even outside Prayer).

Laying the wrists flat on the ground while in prostration - this rule applies to men only.

Offering Prayer while someone is facing you.

Yawning purposely during Prayer.

Praying in clothes that have images of living objects on them.

Lifting up the lower garment - i.e. "Shalwar" (by folding and inserting its upper portion) or the pants (by folding its lower end).

Not tying the buttons of the upper garment, thereby exposing the chest.

The presence of an image (of living objects) in the front, right, left or above the head of the person offering Prayer.

Offering the bow or prostration, or rising from the prostration before the “Imaam” does.

Reciting the Qur’an in any position, except while in Qiyaam (standing).

Ending the Qur’an recitation in the bowing position.

Resting the hands on the ground before touching the knees while proceeding for prostration, without a valid reason. Similarly, raising the knees from the ground before the hands are raised from the ground, while rising from prostration.

Offering Prayer in front of a grave, without a barrier in between.

Not offering a “Wajib” (Essential act) properly. For example not straightening the back during the bow and prostrations, or proceeding for the next position before straightening up in the "Qawmah" or "Jalsah".

Reciting the Qur'an in an improper sequence. For example reciting Surah Kafiroon in the first “Rakaat” (Cycle) and Surah Kausar in the second. This is "Makrooh" since it is against the sequence.

Praying with eyes closed. However, it is better to do so if this increases one's reverence and devotion.

A “Makrooh” act makes the Prayer flawed. Such a Prayer should be offered again.

Praying without the head covered is against the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). Praying without the head covered because one deems wearing a cap as a burden, or due to heat, is a lesser “Makrooh” (tanzeehi). However, if it is done in contempt of Prayer (e.g. deeming that Prayer is not important enough to merit wearing a cap for it), it is Kufr (blasphemy). If it is done to increase one's reverence and devotion, it is “Mustahab” (recommended). 

Rules Regarding Someone Crossing Someone Involved In Prayer:

It is a grave sin to pass in front of someone who is involved in Prayer. The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “If the one who passes in front of someone involved in Prayer knew what sin it entails, he would prefer to stand for a hundred years rather than taking that single step." In another Hadith it is reported "He would deem it good to be driven into the ground, but would not pass in front of someone involved in Prayer."

If someone passes in front, it does not break the Prayer, but the one who passes will earn a great sin. Similarly one should avoid praying in a place where it becomes difficult for others who need to cross.

If a Sutrah (a thing which can act as a barrier) is placed in front of the worshipper, then there is no harm in crossing from a point beyond it. The barrier should be at least one arm in height and at least one finger in thickness.

In congregation, the barrier for the “Imaam” suffices for the followers. Therefore if one has to cross in front of a Follower (Muqtadi), there is no sin in it - provided one does not cross in front of the “Imaam”. 

ETIQUETTES OF THE MOSQUE:

The Mosque is a house of Allah. It is imperative for everyone - old or young - to have proper regard for it. One should wear clean clothes to the mosque. It is not permissible to enter the mosque when one's breath smells after having eaten raw onions or garlic. Similarly, the mosque should be kept clean from all smelly things.

It is forbidden to discuss worldly affairs or talk loudly in the mosque. It is reported in the Hadith that discussing worldly affairs in the mosque destroys good deeds the way a fire burns up dry wood-sticks. In another hadith it is reported "Do not sit with those who discuss worldly affairs in the mosque, for they have no concern with Allah."

It is not permitted for anyone - except the Mu'taqif (one in seclusion) - to eat, drink or sleep there. Therefore if one intends to do these, one must make the intention of Seclusion (I'tiqaf) before entering the mosque, and offer Prayer or do some Zikr (remembrance). It will now become legal for him to eat or drink due to necessity. It is forbidden to beg in the mosque. It is also prohibited to give alms to beggars inside a mosque or to search for lost property.

It is prohibited to defile the walls, ground, carpets etc., of the mosque with any dirt, saliva or nose refuse etc. Entering the mosque in a state of greater impurity (requiring a bath) is a severe crime. The etiquette of the mosque is so important that one must take care not to let water remaining on the body after ablution to drop inside it - nor should one run inside the mosque in order to join the congregation. 

- Kitab-ul-Salat

Islam 312: The Adhan (Call to Prayer)

   Image From: 30masjids

What is The Adhan?

The Adhan (or Azan as it is called in some parts of the world) is the call to worship recited by the muezzin. It is used to alert the people around to come physically to pray. The root of the word is "adhina" which means "be informed about, to listen, to hear". It is usually recited before each of the five mandatory prayers of the day begin.

After the Adhan, the second call known as Iqama then summons Muslims to line up for the beginning of the prayers. The imam then leads the prayers.

(Yahya narrated it on the authority of his uncle that he had been sitting in the company of Muawiya bin Abu Sufyan (may Allah be well pleased with them) when the “Muazzin” called (Muslims) to Prayer. Muawiya said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) saying The “Muazzin”s will have the longest necks on the Day of Resurrection. (They will be the more deserving of Allah's mercy and reward) (Sunan Abu Dawood)

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has said: “Whoever proclaims the “Azaan” for 7 years, for the sake of reward, Allah keeps him secure from the fire of hell.” (Tirmizi, Ibn Majah)

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has said: “The one who proclaims the “Azaan” only seeking reward, is like the blood stained martyr - and when he dies, his body will be safe from insects.” (Bahaare Shariat from Tibrani).)

The Adhan has some specific words, which are as follows:

Allahu Akbar: Allahu Akbar: Allahu Akbar : Allahu Akbar

Ash-hadu al-laa ilaaha illAllah: Ash-hadu al-laa ilaaha illAllah

Ash-hadu anna Muhammadar-Rasoolullah:Ash-hadu anna Muhammadar-Rasoolullah

Hayya alas-Salaah: Hayya alas-Salaah

Hayya alal-Falaah: Hayya alal-Falaah

Allahu Akbar: Allahu Akbar

Laa ilaaha illAllah

English Transliteration:

Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest;

I bear witness that there is no God except Allah, I bear witness that there is no God except Allah:

I bear witness that Mohammed is the Messenger of Allah, I bear witness that Mohammed is the Messenger of Allah:

Come towards Prayer, come towards Prayer; Come towards Success, come towards Success;

Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest; There is no God except Allah!

Upon hearing the “Azaan”, it is commanded to reply to it - i.e. to repeat the words which the Caller (Muazzin) is saying, except for the words “Hayya alas-Salaah Hayya alal-Falaah”, for which one must say "Laa hawla wa laa quwwata illaa Billah" (There is neither power nor strength, except with Allah).

In the “Azaan” for the Dawn Prayer, the Caller will say the following words twice after “Hayya alas-Salaah Hayya alal-Falaah” - "AsSalaatu Khairum-minun-Naum" (Prayer is better than sleep). The response to these words is "Sadaqta wa bararta, wa bilHaqqi Nataqta" (You have confirmed the truth and you did well - and you have spoken a fact.)

While the “Azaan” is being said, one must not indulge in any talk, recite Qur'an etc., nor indulge in other activities. Listen to the “Azaan” attentively and reply to it. The same applies to the “Iqamah”. For the one who stays engrossed in talk while the “Azaan” is being proclaimed, there is a danger of him dying an evil death. (We seek Allah's refuge)

When the Caller proclaims "Ash-hadu anna Muhammadar-Rasoolullah", one must respond by sending peace and blessings upon the Holy Prophet - "SallAllahu alayka yaa Rasool Allah" (Allah's blessings be upon you, O the Messenger of Allah). It is recommended (Mustahab) to kiss one's thumbnails and touch them on one's eyes while saying, "Qurratu ayni beka yaa Rasool-Allah - Allahumma Matteyni Bis-Samye wal-Basar" (The coolness of my eyes is due to you, O the Messenger of Allah! O Allah, grant me the usage of the ears and the eyes). The one who does this will be taken by the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) to Paradise.

The words proclaimed to announce the beginning of the congregational Prayers (with Jamaat), are called “Iqamah”. All words are the same as in the “Azaan”, except that after the second "Hayya alal-Falaah", the following words are said twice - "Qad QamatisSalaah" (The Prayer has been established). In response to this, one should say "AqamahAllah wa adamaha maa damatiSamawate walArd" (May Allah keep it established, and grant it permanence as long as the skies and the earth remain.)

It is undesirable (Makrooh) for a person who comes in at the time of “Iqamah” to remain standing and wait - he should sit down and stand up only when the Proclaimer (Mukabbir) has announced "Hayya alal-Falaah". Likewise those who are already present in the mosque must stand up at this moment. The same applies to the “Imaam”.

After The Adhan:

The following du'a is optionally read:

Allahumma rabba haazihi-daawatit-taammate was-salaatil-qaaemate aate sayyedenaa Muhammadan-ilWaseelata walFadeelata wad-darajatar-rafeeata wabas-hoo maqaamam-mahmoodanil-lazee wa-attahoo warzuqnaa shafaatahoo yawm-alqiyaamate, innaka laa tukhleful-meeaaad.

(O Allah, the Lord of this perfect call and of the Prayer to be established! Grant our leader Hazrat Mohammed, the highest point in Paradise, and Excellence, and the highest rank, and install him on the praiseworthy position which You have promised him - and grant us his intercession on the Day of Resurrection. Indeed You do not go against Your promise.) 

Islam 312: Understanding Salat: What is Salat? (meaning, effect, benefits)

What is Salat?

A pillar of religion.

The key to paradise.

The spiritual ascent of the faithful believer.

The greater Jihad (holy war).

A sign of faith.

Light of the heart.

The radiance of the face.

The nourishment of the soul.

A cause of blessings in the house.

A cause of abundance in provision.

Cure for ailments of the body and soul.

A light in the gloom of the grave.

A canopy in the hot sun on the Day of Resurrection.

An entertainer of the heart amidst the fear of the grave.

A swift carrier across the thin bridge on the Day of Resurrection.

A means of attaining forgiveness from sins.

A barrier between hell and the offerer of Prayers.

A repeller of the devil.

A bestower of Allah's proximity and His favour.

So, what is so important about prayer?

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has stated: "The first duty that Allah, the Supreme, has ordained upon my nation is that of offering Prayer, and indeed Prayer is the first thing that will be taken account of on the Day of Resurrection."

It is also reported in the Hadith that, "Whoever keeps the Prayer established, has kept his religion established - and whoever leaves Prayer has demolished religion".

It is reported by Syedna Abu Hurairah (may Allah be well pleased with him) that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Allah the Supreme states, 'O the son of Adam! Free yourself for My worship, I shall fill your heart with content - and if you do not do so, I shall make you busy in several affairs but not remove your poverty.' " (Mishkaat ul Masabeeh, Ibn Majah)

"Be content with five things before (the advent of) the other five: Youth before old age, good health before sickness, prosperity before poverty, spare time before indulgence in affairs, and life before death." (Hadith reported in Tirmizi)

Regrettably, the Muslims of this age have forgotten Prayer. Most people simply do not have the time for it, whereas some people do offer their Prayers but do not know the proper way of offering it. It is imperative to learn the correct way of offering the Prayer, and to offer all the 5 Obligatory Prayers with the congregation.

The importance of establishing Prayer has been mentioned in the Holy Qur'an and Hadith, on several occasions:-

Allah the Supreme states in the Holy Qur’an: “And keep the Prayer established, and pay the charity, and bow your heads with those who bow (in Prayer).”(Surah Baqarah)

On another occasion, it is stated: “Guard all your Prayers, and the middle Prayer; and stand with reverence before Allah.” (Surah Baqarah)

On yet another occasion, it is stated: “And keep the Prayer established at the two ends of the day and in some parts of the night.” (Surah Hud)

The "two ends of the day" mean the morning and evening. The time before noon is classified as morning and the time after it is classified as evening. The Morning Prayer is the Dawn (Fajr) Prayer, and the Prayers of the evening are the Afternoon (Zohr) and the Evening (Asr) Prayers. The Prayers for the night are the Sunset (Maghrib) and the Night (Isha) Prayers. (Tafseer Khazain ul Irfan)

The Holy Qur'an warns those who abandon Prayer, in the following words: “And after them came the unworthy successors who squandered Prayer and pursued their own desires, so they will soon encounter the forest of Gai in hell.” (Surah Maryam)

“Gai” is a well in the lowest part of hell, in which accumulates the pus of its inhabitants. It is also mentioned that “Gai” is the hottest and deepest part of hell. This is the well which Allah opens up whenever the heat of hell lessens, causing the fire of hell to rage again. This well is the destination of those who abandon Prayer – and adulterers, drunkards, usurers and those who hurt their parents.

The Holy Qur'an has mentioned a trait of the hypocrites, that they are lazy in offering Prayers, and that they deem it to be a burden. It therefore states: “Undoubtedly the hypocrites, in their fancy, seek to deceive Allah whereas He will extinguish them while making them oblivious; and when they stand up for Prayer, they do it unwillingly and for others to see, and they do not remember Allah except a little.” (Surah Nisaa). The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has said the following about the hypocrites: “The most burdensome Prayers for the hypocrites are the Night Prayer and the Dawn Prayer. If they were to know the blessings they have in store, they would have come to them, even slithering.” (Saheeh Bukhari and Saheeh Muslim)

The Holy Qur'an also explains that offering the Prayer is not at all a burden for those who believe in Allah and the Last Day. It says: “And seek help in patience and Prayer; and truly it is hard except for those who prostrate before Me with sincerity - Who know that they have to meet their Lord, and that it is to Him they are to return.” (Surah Baqarah). We therefore know from the Holy Qur'an, and from the Hadith, that it is obligatory on all Muslims to offer Prayers 5 times daily. To be lazy in Prayer, and especially not to offer the Night and Dawn Prayers, are the traits of hypocrites. We also know that not offering Prayer is the way of the disbelievers - this is why the Sahabah (the Companions of the Holy Prophet) did not deem the abandonment of any deed as disbelief, except the abandonment of Prayer.

The importance of Prayer can be gauged from the fact that it has been emphasised right from childhood. The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has said: “Command your children to pray when they become seven years old, and beat them for it (Prayer) when they become ten years old; and arrange their beds (to sleep) separately.

The Sin Of Letting The Prayer Lapse:

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has said: “Whoever lets the Prayer lapse, and then offers it after its due time, will burn in hell for not praying on time, for a period of one "Haqab".” One "Haqab" equals 80 years, and one year has 360 days, and the Day of Resurrection will equal a thousand years. Which means that one who lets just one Prayer lapse, will burn in hell for a period of 28,800,000 years! (May Allah protect us - Aameen).

Allamah Amjad Ali Aazmi (may Allah have mercy on him) mentions that abandoning Prayer is terrible in itself, but see what Allah the Supreme says about those who let it lapse: “So “vail” (or ruin) is to those offerers of Prayer - Those who are neglectful of their Prayer.” (Surah Maoon) “Vail” is the name of a dreadful valley in hell, from which hell also seeks refuge. This will be the destination of those who let their Prayers lapse. (Bahaare Shariat)

The Blessings Of Prayer:

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “If there was a river at the door of anyone of you and he took a bath in it five times a day, would you notice any dirt on him?" The Companions said: “Not a trace of dirt would be left." The Prophet added, "That is the example of the five Prayers with which Allah annuls evil deeds." (Saheeh Bukhari & Saheeh Muslim) Here “evil deeds” mean the lesser sins. The cardinal sins are forgiven only after repentance and giving the people their due rights.

It is recorded in Mishkaat Shareef that once during the winter season, the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) caught hold of a tree branch and shook it, causing its leaves to fall. He then said: “When a Muslim offers Prayer, seeking Allah's pleasure, his sins fall off like these leaves did."

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has also said: “For the one who is regular in his Prayer, the Prayer will become a light, a guide and the cause of his salvation on the Day of Resurrection. Whereas the one who is not regular in his Prayers, will not have any light, guide or salvation - and on the Day of Resurrection, he will be along with Qaroon, Firaun, Hamaan, Ubai bin Khalaf” - i.e. with the major infidels. (Mishkaat)

Another blessing of Prayer is that all hardships are resolved through it, and the offerer gains solace from it. Hazrat Huzaifah (may Allah be well pleased with him) says that whenever the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was faced with any difficulty, he used to turn his attention towards Prayer. (Abu Dawood) 

  

The Excellence Of Offering Prayer In Congregation (With Jamaat):

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has said: “The Prayer in congregation is twenty seven times superior to the Prayer offered by a person alone." (Bukhari & Muslim)

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) found some people absenting themselves from certain Prayers and he said: “I intend to order someone to lead people in Prayer, and then go to the persons who do not join the (congregational) Prayer and then order their houses to be burnt by the bundles of fuel. If one amongst them were to know that he would find a fat fleshy bone he would attend the Night Prayer.” (Muslim & Abu Dawood)

Abu Huraira (may Allah be well pleased with him) reported that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “A man's Prayer in congregation is more valuable by twenty degrees and some above them as compared with his Prayer in his house and his market, for when he performs ablution doing it well, then goes out to the mosque, and he is impelled (to do so) only by (the love of congregational) Prayer, he has no other objective before him but Prayer. He does not take a step without being raised a degree for it and having a sin remitted for it, till he enters the mosque, and when he is busy in Prayer after having entered the mosque, the angels continue to invoke blessing on him as long as he is in his place of worship saying: O Allah, show him mercy, and pardon him! Accept his repentance (and the angels continue this supplication for him) so long as he does not do any harm in it, or as long as his ablution is not broken.” (Saheeh Muslim)

Abdullah ibn Abbas (may Allah be well pleased with him) reported that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “If anyone hears him who makes the call to Prayer and is not prevented from joining the congregation by any excuse (he was asked what an excuse consisted of and replied that it was fear or illness) the Prayer he offers will not be accepted from him.” (Abu Dawood) 

If the one who misses the congregational Prayer knew what reward lay in it for him, he would come to it slithering. (Tibrani)

The Importance Of Reverence And Humility:

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) states: “Worship Allah as if you see Him, and if you cannot do this, then you must at least be certain that He is looking at you." (Saheeh Bukhari)

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) states: “Whoever offers all his Prayers on time after a perfect ablution, stands with humility and reverence, prostrates and bows with calm, and offers the entire Prayer in good manner - so that Prayer becomes a radiating one and prays for him thus: O the offerer of Prayer! May Allah guard you the way you have guarded me. And as regards the one who offers the Prayer poorly - that is without proper ablution, and not even prostrating and bowing correctly - then the Prayer curses him thus: May Allah ruin you the way you have ruined me. Then the Prayer is folded and thrown back at his face like a used (dirty) cloth.” (Tibrani).

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) once said: “The worst thief is one who steals during the Prayer.” The companions therefore asked "O the Messenger of Allah! How does he steal in Prayer?” He answered "He does not prostrate or bow correctly." (Musnad Imaam Ahmed & Tibrani)

In yet another Hadith, glad tidings of salvation have been given to those who regularly offer their Prayers with humility and reverence. (Abu Dawood).

Hazrat Abdullah Ibn Abbas (may Allah be well pleased with him) states: "The reverent ones are those who fear Allah and offer their Prayers with calm."

It is clear from the above that Prayer must be offered with reverence, humility and calm, keeping in mind all its requirements.

Prayer Makes One Pious:

Allah the Supreme states in the Holy Qur’an: “O dear Prophet (Mohammed – peace and blessings be upon him), recite from the Book which has been sent down to you, and establish the Prayer; indeed the Prayer stops from indecency and evil; and indeed the remembrance of Allah is the greatest; and Allah knows all what you do.” (Surah Ankabut)

The above verse reveals that Prayer stops from indecency and evil matters - which means that if one offers the Prayer regularly and properly, he shuns indecent matters in due course, and becomes pious.

A young man from the Ansar used to pray along with the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), and was simultaneously also given to involving himself in cardinal sins. The matter was reported to the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) who said: “His Prayer will some day prevent him from these evil acts". Very soon, he therefore repented and his state became better.

Hazrat Anas (may Allah be well pleased with him) said: “If the Prayer does not prevent one from indecency and evil, then that is not Prayer." (Tafseer Khazain ul Irfaan) 

Being Certain That The Prayer Has Been Accepted:

Do not ever get distracted by the worldly affairs that come to mind while offering Prayer. Rather do not care about them, and pay attention to the meanings of the words that are being said during the Prayer.

Some people question as to how they can be sure whether Allah has accepted the Prayer that they have offered. As an answer, just reflect upon the following Hadith: "Allah will deal with His bondman on the Day of Resurrection in the same manner as the bondman had thought about his Lord". It is therefore imperative, along with the fear of Allah, to have the good belief that our worship has been accepted.

Scholars say that if you have offered the Dawn Prayer and then later offered the Afternoon Prayer, then be well convinced that Allah has accepted your Dawn Prayer. Further, when you have offered the Evening Prayer, be convinced that the Afternoon Prayer has been accepted. Similarly, after each Prayer, be sure that the previous Prayer has been accepted - because if Allah had not accepted your Dawn Prayer, he would not guide you to offer the Afternoon Prayer. The Beneficent Lord's guidance to you to offer the next Prayer is a proof of His having accepted your previous one. 

The Prayers Of The Pious:

Every Prayer should be offered like a person who is certain that it is the last Prayer of his life. Hazrat Hatim Balkhi (may Allah have mercy upon him) was once questioned as to how he offered his Prayers. He answered, "When it is time for Prayer, I do a proper ablution and stand calmly on the prayer-mat. I imagine that the Holy Kaaba is in front of me, Paradise on my right, hell on my left, and that I am standing on the thin bridge (of the Day of Resurrection) - and that the angel of death is above me and that this is the last Prayer of my life. Then with utmost humility I proclaim "Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)" and keeping the meanings in mind, I recite the Holy Qur'an - and with extreme reverence and humility I complete the Prayers. I then hope that Allah will accept it by His mercy, and fear that it may be rejected because of the shortcomings of my deeds."

Such is the Prayer of the Friends of Allah! May Allah guide us to follow the footsteps of His friends. Aameen. 

  

- Culled From Kitaab-ul-Salaat (The Book of Prayers) By: Allamah Sayyed Shah Turab UlHaque Qadri

*We'll talk more about prayers and how to offer prayers in the next posts.

Islam 312: How To Perform Dry Ablution (At-Tayammum)

What is Tayammum?

Well, tayammum is the act of performing ablution using sand or dust if water is not available.

"O you who believe! When you intend to offer As-Salat (the prayer), wash your faces and your hands (forearms) up to the elbows, rub (by passing wet hands over) your heads, and (wash) your feet up to ankles . If you are in a state of Janaba (i.e. after a sexual discharge), purify yourselves (bathe your whole body). But if you are ill or on a journey, or any of you comes after answering the call of nature, or you have been in contact with women (i.e. sexual intercourse), and you find no water, then perform tayammum with clean earth and rub therewith your faces and hands. Allah does not want to place you in difficulty, but He wants to purify you, and to complete His Favour to you that you may be thankful." - Qur'an 4:43

Instances When Tayammum Is Permitted:

1. When one has searched earnestly for water, and has found that it is not available, or it is not sufficient enough for wudhu, Tayammum is permitted.

2. When water is nearby, but the person is not able to fetch it due to fear for his/her life, family and wealth, (e.g. from an enemy either beast or human in the vicinity) then, At-Tayammum may be performed.

3. If one is injured or ill and believes that the use of water will worsen his/her condition (one does not have to be absolutely sure about it, but the assumption must be based on a past experience or from what a well-informed person has said), Tayammum is allowed.

4. Tayammum is allowed when the water available is not enough for wudhu, or of the person is saving it up for cooking or drinking.

5. Tayammum is allowed when the water is too cold such that it may harm the person and there is no means of heating the water, or if a public bathroom is not available.

What Kind Of Soil Can Be Used For Tayammum?

It Must be pure soil (I.e., sand, stone, gypsum and so on... Anything that covers the earth that produces sand or dust when hit with the earth).

How To Perform Tayammum:

First and foremost, you must make the intention of performing Tayammum, and you must say bismillah (in the name of Allah) before you begin.

After making the intention in your heart, you then strike the soil with your hands, then you blow it (so that you are not covered with sand or dust), and then you wipe your face and hands (up to your wrist and starting with the right hand).

Then you finish with the dua as you usually do after wudhu ( "ashadu anla illahha illahu wadahu la shareeka lahu, wa ashadu Anna muhamadan abduhu wa rasulu")

And that is how you perform the At-Tayammum. There is no difference between it and the normal ablution (in terms of purification), it can also be performed when water is not available and one needs to perform ghusl (after sexual intercourse or wet dreams etc). You can also touch the Qur'an after performing at-Tayammum.

Abu Tharr reported that the Prophet (pbuh) said: "The soil is a purifier for a Muslim, even if he does not find water for ten years. Then if he finds water, that is, to make ablution, and so on, it becomes incumbent upon him to use it." [Ahmad and At-Tirmithi]

However, like wudhu, there are things that nullify Tayammum:

Things that come out of the anus or penis/vagina such as urine, feaces or gas etc.

Falling sound asleep.

Intoxication, insanity or fainting (unconsciousness).

Touching the uncovered private parts.

Vomiting.

Discharge of blood, pus or anything from the body.

Touching a woman in a way that leads to semen being emitted. A man can still touch, kiss and hug his wife and his wudhu will still be valid. It will only break if these actions lead to the emission of semen.