Meaning, Importance & Significance of Salāh:
Salāh is the name given to the formal Islamic prayer. In Arabic language the basic meaning of Salāh is “Supplication”. In religious terminology, Salāh is used to refer to the acts of bowing and prostration, the remaining specified acts associated with it, specified at certain times, with those known conditions, and the characteristics, and requirements that are well-known about it.
The supreme importance of Salāh for Muslims is indicated by its status as one of the paradigmatic Five Pillars of Islam. Salāh is an important pillar of Islam, to the extent that it was legislated by Allah Himself directly to Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) without any mediator.
Offering Salāh is obligatory on all adult Muslims, with a few dispensations for those for whom it would be difficult. For those whom it is physically difficult they can perform Salāh in a way suitable for them. If the person cannot stand, they should pray sitting. If they cannot sit either, they should do so with gestures by hands or eyes.
In central and South Asian languages such as Persian, Urdu, Hindi, Bengali, Albanian language and Turkic languages Salāh is also called “Namāz” (نماز) from the Indo-European root meaning 'to bow or prostrate'. The person performing Salāh is a musallī (مصلى), while the traditional prayer mat on which prayer is performed is a musalla
Salāh is the name given to the formal Islamic prayer. In the Arabic language, the basic meaning of Salah is “Supplication”. In religious terminology, Salah is used to refer to the acts of bowing and prostration, the remaining specified acts associated with it, specified at certain times, with those known conditions, and the characteristics, and requirements that are well-known about it.
Its supreme importance for Muslims is indicated by its status as one of the paradigmatic Five Pillars of Islam. Salah is an important pillar of Islam, to the extendt, that it was legislated by Allah Himself directly to Prophet Muhammad without any mediator.
Offering Salāh is obligatory on all adult Muslims, with a few dispensations for those for whom it would be difficult. For those whom it is physically difficult they can perform Salah in a way suitable for them.
In central and South Asian languages such as Persian, Urdu, Hindi, Bengali, Albanian language and Turkic languages Salah is also called “Namāz” (نماز) from the Indo-European root meaning 'to bow or prostrate'. The person performing Salah is a musallī (مصلى), while the traditional prayer mat on which prayer is performed is a musalla
Clean clothes, body, place of prostration
Wudhu/Wudu (Ritual Ablution)
Praying in front of a Sutrah
Preparation
Permitted water types
Permitted water types are Rain water, Well water, Spring / sea or river water, Water of melting snow or hail, Water of a big tank or pond
Performing Tayammum
Tayammum consists of the following steps:
Finding a piece of ground which is free of najaasah (things regarded as ritually unclean). This could be any natural surface such as rock, sand, or dust.
The same conditions that invalidate wudu also invalidate tayammum. In addition, a person's tayammum is invalidated as and when water becomes available.
Permitted Items for Tayammum
Tayammum is permitted on the items like Taahir (pure) earth, Sand, Stone, Limestone, Baked earthen pots (unglazed), Walls of mud / stone / brick, Clay and all items which have thick dust on them.
Important Positions in Salāh
1. Qiyaam (Standing)
2. Ruku (To bow)
3. Sajda (Prostration)
4. Qai’da (Sitting)
1. Qai'da-e- Akhira (Last sitting)
Procedure of the Salāh
Position 1 (Qiyaam)
1. Stand upright facing the direction of Al-Kaaba (Makkah) from whichever place you are offering Salāh. This position is called Qiyaam and the direction is called Qiblah in Arabic. Note that the direction of the fingers on your feet should also be towards the Qiblah.
2. Make Niyyah (intention) in your heart for the Salāh you want to offer. Recite “Inni wajihatu wajiha lillazi fatarassamawaati wal arzi hanifau(n) wa ma aana minal mushrikeen”.
3. Commence the prayer by raising your hands up to your ears in a way that palms face Qiblah and the end of the thumbs either touch the lobes of the ears or come parallel to them and tell the Takbeer (Takbeeratul Ihram), which is "Allāhu 'Akbar" (meaning Allah is the Greatest). This is done before, with or after the Takbeer. This marks the commencement of the prayer.
4. Then using the thumb and the little finger of your right hand, make a circle round the wrist of your left hand and hold it. You should then spread out the three remaining fingers of your right hand on the back of your left hand so that these three fingers face the elbow. Place both hands slightly below the navel, folding them as explained above.
5. Look downward to the place where your forehead will touch the ground in the Sujood (prostration) and recite silently the Thana (Subhaanak-Allaahumma, wa bihamdika, wa tabaarakasmuka, wa ta'aalaa jadduka, wa laa ilaaha ghayruka). The Thana is recited only in the first Raka’ah of any prayer.
6. Then recite Aūdhu bi-llāhi min ash-shaythāni r-rajīm asking refuge of Allah from Shaitaan. Then recite B-ism illāhi r-rahmāni r-rahīm before beginning the recitation of the Quran.
7. Then recite 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. (Ameen)).
8. If this is the first or second raka'ah, then after the recitation of Al-Fatiha, recite a passage / chapter from any other section from the Quran.
Position 2 (Ruku)
9. After reciting Surah Al-Fatiha & the following Surah / section of a Surah, say the takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") and bow down and place your hands on your knees. This position is called Ruku. Bend the upper part of your body up to a point where the neck and back nearly level up. Now recite silently:"Subhana Rabbiyal Adhim" (meaning: Glorified is my Lord, the Almighty) at least thrice.
Position 3 (Qiyaam again)
10. Return to the Qiyaam position (Stand up) from the bowing position saying: "Sami'Allahu liman hamidah" (meaning: Allah hears those who praise Him). After standing say "Rabbana lakal hamd." (meaning: Our Lord, praise be to you).
Position 4 (Sajda)
11. Now say the takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") and prostrate on the floor with your forehead, nose, palms of both hands, your knees, and toes all touching the floor. Keep your arms away from the sides of the body and the ground. This position is called Sajda or Sujood. Now recite silently: "Subhana Rabbiyal Aa'la"(meaning: Glory to Allah, the Exalted) at least thrice.
Position 5 (Qaida)
12. Sit up from the floor saying the takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar"). Sit upright with your knees bent and palms placed on them. When sitting, put your left foot flat on the ground with its toes pointing towards the right and sit on this foot. The right foot should be upright, with the toes touching the ground and bent and pointing towards the Qiblah.
Sit for a time during which "Subhanul-Allah" could be said at least once. While sitting, let your eyes be on the lap. This position is called “Qaida”
Position 6 (Second Sajda)
13. Now say the takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") and again prostrate in the Sujood (Sajda) position. Recite "Subhana Rabbiyal A'la" atleast thrice. Then sit up from this position saying the takbeer.
This completes the first Rak'ah or unit of SalahSalāh. Now stand up for the second Rak'ah and perform it in the same way, except that you do not recite Thana (Subhaanak-Allaahumma, wa bihamdika, wa tabaarakasmuka, wa ta'aalaa jadduka, wa laa ilaaha ghayruka) in the beginning.
Position 7 (Qaida Again)
14. While in the position of Qaida, after the second Sujood (prostration) of the second Rak’ah, recite Tashahhud silently (At-Tahiyyatu lillahi was- Salawatu wat-Tayyibatu. As-Salamu ' alaika ayyuhannabiyyu wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu. Assalamu 'alaina wa’ala ibadil-Lahis –Salihin ashhadu an-La ilaha il-Lal-lahu wa ash hadu anna Muhammadan abduhu wa rasuluhu. When you reach at ashadu an-La raise the index finger of your right hand upward facing about 45 degrees by closing the fist, and drop it back and spread the hand to its original position at il-Lal-lahu.
15. If this is not the last Rak’ah (meaning that if you are offering more than two Rak’ahs prayer) then stand up after you have recited Tashahhud and continue the actions for the remaining Rak'ah(s).
16. If this is the last Rak’ah, then remain seated after Tashahhud and then recite silently Durood-e-Ibrahim. (Allahumma sal-li'ala Muhammadin wa'ala aali Muhammadin, Kama sal-layta 'ala Ibraheema Wa'ala aali Ibraheema innaka Hameedum Majeed. Allahumma baarik 'ala Muhammadin wa'ala ali Muhammadin, Kama barakta 'ala Ibraheema Wa'ala aali Ibraheema innaka Hameedum Majeed.)
17. After Durood-e-Ibrahim recite any one of the following dua 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."
"Allah Humma Rabbana Aatina Fid Dunya Hasanah Wa Fil Akhirate Hasanah Wa Qina Azaban Naar."
Allah Humma Inni Zwalam'tu Nafsi Zulman Kasira. Wala Yag'firuzunu Ba illah anta, fagah'firili magafiratam, min'indika, war'hamni, innaka antal gafur'rur raheem.
Types of prayers
Sequence of Janazah prayer
Before starting the prayer it is appropriate to observe the following:
Sequence:
1. Having the appropriate Niyyah in your heart, raise your hands in the usual manner and say the Takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar"). Then fold your hands as in Qiyaam position. Recite Surah Al-Fatiha, followed by some other recitation from the Quran, quietly.
2. Say the second takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") without raising the hands & recite Darood-e-Ibrahim as in Tashahhud.
3. Say the third takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") without raising the hands & make du'a for the deceased.
The best is to say: “Allaahumma ighfir lihaayina wa mayitina wa shaahidina wa ghaa’ibina wa sagheerina wa kabeerina wa dhakarina wa unthaana. Allaahumma man ahyaytahu minna fa ahyihi ‘ala’l-Islam wa man tawaffaytahu minna fa tawiffahu ‘ala’l-eemaan. Allaahumma ighfir lahu warhamhu wa ‘aafihi wa a’fu ‘anhu, wa akrim nuzulahu wa wassi’ madkhalahu waghsilhu bi’l-maa’ wa’l-thalj wa’l-barad, wa naqqihi min al-khataaya kama yunaqqa’ al-thawb al-abyad min al-danas. Allaahumma abdilhu daaran khayra min daarihi wa ahlan khayra min ahlihi. Allaahumma adkhilhu al-jannah wa a’idhhu min ‘adhaab il-qabri wa min ‘adhaab il-naar wa afsah lahu fi qabrihi wa nawwir lahu fihi. Allaahumma laa tahrimna ajrahu wa la tadillanaa ba’dahu”
(meaning: O Allaah, forgive our living and our dead, those who are present among us and those who are absent, our young and our old, our males and our females. O Allaah, whoever You keep alive, keep him alive in Islam, and whoever You cause to die, cause him to die with faith. O Allaah, forgive him and have mercy on him, keep him safe and sound and forgive him, honour the place where he settles and make his entrance wide; wash him with water and snow and hail, and cleanse him of sin as a white garment is cleansed of dirt. O Allaah, give him a house better than his house and a family better than his family. O Allaah, admit him to Paradise and protect him from the torment of the grave and the torment of Hell-fire; make his grave spacious and fill it with light. O Allaah, do not deprive us of the reward and do not cause us to go astray after this).” (Source unknown)
Du’’a can also be made with other words, for example, you could say,
“Allaahumma in kaana muhsinan fa zid fi ihsaanihi wa in kaana musee’an fa tajaawaz ‘an sayi’aatihi. Allaahumma ighfir lahu wa thabbit-hu bi’l-qawl il-thaabit”
(meaning: O Allaah, if he was a doer of good, then increase his good deeds, and if he was a wrongdoer, then overlook his bad deeds. O Allaah, forgive him and give him the strength to say the right thing).”
4. Say the fourth takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") without raising the hands, followed by a short pause. Then finally turn your face to the right saying: Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah (peace and the mercy of Allah be on you) and then to the left repeating the same words. This signifies the end of the Salāh.
It is clear from this description that all this prayer is done while one is standing - there is no ruku or sujud in it.
Wajib Salah
The literal meaning of the word “Wajib” is something that is compulsory (must do). In religious terminology it refers to that act which is established via evidence that is indefinite in its transmission AND/OR meaning (i.e., which has not been established by an absolute evidence).
The major difference between Farz & Wajib is that: Denying a Farz Salāh without a valid reason makes one a non-Muslim butand denying a Wajib Salāh without valid reason makes one a sinner.
One must make up any missed Farz or Wajib prayers.
Two Rak'at offered while/after performing the Tawaaf of K'aba.
This is a Nafl Salāh consisting of two Raka'ahs and performed after completing Tawaf offer 2 Rakats of Nafil Wajib-Al-Tawaf behind and close to Muqam-e-Ibrahim. The Salāh can be performed at any times where Salāh is not forbidden.
Tahiyat-ul-Wudhu
Tahiyat-ul-wudhu is a 2 Rak’ah Salāh offered after performing wudhu.
Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that once Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam asked Bilal (Radiyallahu 'anhu) at Fajr Salāh: O Bilal! Tell me that deed of yours which is most hopeful (for reward) after embracing Islam, for I heard your footsteps in front of me in Paradise (in my dream).
Bilal (Radiyallahu 'anhu) replied: I have not done anything extroadinary except that whenever I perform Wudu during the day or night, I offer Salāh (Tahiyatul-Wudu) after that, as much as was written or granted for me. (Sahih –al - Bukhari)
7.4.3 Tahiyat-ul-Masjid
This is a Nafl Salāh consisting of two Raka'ahs and performed when first entering a mosque. It is considered to be a way of greeting the place of worship in order to draw nearer to Allah.
Also called "masjidus salam", this is a highly recommended prayer consisting of two Raka'ahs and performed when first entering a mosque. It is considered to be a way of greeting the place of worship in order to draw nearer to Allah.
7.4.4 Ishraq
This is a Nafl Salāh consisting of two Raka'ahs, at the very least, and performed around 20 minutes after sunrise.
The Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) is reported to have said, 'He who performs Fajr Salāh with Jamaat and remains seated in the same place while engaging in Dhikr until after sunrise and thereafter performs 2 Rakaah Nafl Salāh, (Ishraq), he will obtain the reward of one Hajj and one Umrah.' (Tirmizi).
Istikhara means to ask Allah to guide one to the right thing concerning any affair in one’s life, especially when one has to choose between two permissible alternatives. SalatSalāt-ul-Istikhaarah is a prayer that one may pray if one must choose between permissible alternatives: It is two Rakahs non-obligatory prayer and can be performed at any times where Salāh is not forbidden.
It is recorded by al-Bukhari in Jabir’s hadith that “The Prophet sallallahu alehi wasallam would teach us al-istikhara for all of our affairs as he would teach us a surah from the Qur’an. He said: ‘If one of you is deliberating over an act, he should pray two non-obligatory rak’at and say:
Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi’ilmika, Wa astaqdiruka bi-qudratika, Wa asaluka min fazlika al-’azim Fa-innaka taqdiru Wala aqdiru, Wa ta’lamu Wala a’lamu, Wa anta ‘allamu l-ghuyub. Allahumma, in kunta ta’lam anna hadha-l-amra Khairun li fi dini wa ma’ashi wa’aqibati amri (or ‘ajili amri wa’ajilihi) Faqdirhu li wa yas-sirhu li thumma barik li Fihi, Wa in kunta ta’lamu anna hadha-lamra shar-run li fi dini wa ma’ashi wa’aqibati amri (or fi’ajili amri wa ajilihi) Fasrifhu anni was-rifni anhu. Waqdir li alkhaira haithu kana Thumma ardini bihi
(meaning: “O Allah, I consult You as You are All-Knowing and I appeal to You to give me power as You are Omnipotent, I ask You for Your great favor, for You have power and I do not, and You know all of the hidden matters. O Allah ! If you know that this matter (then he should mention it) is good for me in my religion, my livelihood, and for my life in the Hereafter, (or he said: ‘for my present and future life,’) then make it (easy) for me. And if you know that this matter is not good for me in my religion, my livelihood and my life in the Hereafter, (or he said: ‘for my present and future life,’) then keep it away from me and take me away from it and choose what is good for me wherever it is and please me with it.”)
When one is not clear about the result of the istikhara, the fuqaha mention that it is recommend to repeat it, upto 7 times if necessary (usually done on separate occasions). [cf: Radd al-Muhtar]
It is not necessary that you get a dream or even a "feeling." Rather, the istikhara is a prayer that Allah guide you towards that which is best (khayr) for you. If you do the prayer of guidance (istikhara) with the proper manners, the most important of which is to truly consign the matter to Allah and suspend your own inclinations, then Allah will make events unfold in the direction that is the best for your worldly and next-worldly affairs.
Prayer in congregation
One of the most important points about prayer is to offer the obligatory ones in congregation. Praying the obligatory ones in congregation is a strong tradition of the Prophet (peace be upon him) praying them in congregation except during the last days of his life when he was seriously ill.
Salāt al-Jamaat at means praying in congregation, with one person leading. The Person who leads is called the Imam, while those who follow him are called the Ma'mum or Ma'mumin (plural). As for the daily prayers, the minimum amount of people needed is two -one, Imam and one Ma'mum. For the Salāt al-Jumu'ah (Friday) there must be a minimum of five people, including the Imam.
Congregational prayer for men is one of the major symbols of Islam, the most emphasized of the Sunnah of Rasoolullah (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) and his joy in this world, and a means for individuals and communities to strengthen their relations with their Lord.
Allah says in the Quran “When you (O Messenger Muhammad) are among them, and lead them in As‑Salaah (the prayer), let one party of them stand up [in Salaah (prayer)] with you taking their arms with them; when they finish their prostrations, let them take their positions in the rear and let the other party come up which have not yet prayed, and let them pray with you”. [Surah an-Nisa’ 4:102]
Ibn Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, "Salāh in congregation is twenty-seven times more meritorious than a Salāh performed individually.'' [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Mode of Prayer (Salāh) For Women
There are some differences between how women and men’s way of performing Salāh. Prayer to be offered by women differs from that of men only in the practical manner of its offering and not in the spiritual sense. The Prayer times, the supplications, the number of prostrations, bows, etc., do not differ. The difference in the physical aspects of Prayer arise from the fact that women’s physique differs from that of men, and follow from the commands which Allah (The Supreme) has stipulated for them in the Holy Quran and through the Hadith of the Holy Prophet.
These are some of the differences.
1. Men raise their hands all the way to the ear for Takbeer while women raise their hands only up to their shoulders.
2. In Qayam (the standing posture) Men place their hands below Navel while women place their hands on their chest.
3. Men grasp their wrist while women do not. They only place right hand on the top of left with fingers intact together.
4. In Ruku (the bowing posture) Men’s back is horizontal while women suppose to bend their back only far enough to touch their knees. Looking from far it will look like a bow arc. They won’t flatten their back.
5. In Sajdah men’s back portion is raised from ground and hands apart from body and fingers of feet twisted while women suppose to be gathered in a way so that all their body parts are close together and abdomen placed over her thighs. Both feet and ankles sticking out to the right. Lower portion of back touching the ground.
6. During Jalsa and Qaida (sitting between Sajdah and during Qayam) men sit on their left ankle and their right foot’s fingers are twisted while women sit on floor and their both ankles and feet sticking out towards right hand side.
Allah says in the Quran:
“And stay in your houses, and do not display yourselves like that of the times of ignorance, and perform Salāh, and give Zakah, and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah wishes only to remove uncleanness from you, Oh people of the House, and to purify you with a thorough purification.” (Surah Ahzaab 33:33)
Abdullah ibn Umar (may Allah be well pleased with him) narrates that the Holy Prophet said, 'When a woman sits in Sajdah by putting one thigh upon the other (i.e. close to one another) and at the time of Sajdah (prostration) her stomach touches her thighs and she also takes full consideration of Hijaab, then Allah Taãla looks at her and says to the angels, 'Bear witness that I have forgiven her.' (Baihaqi, Kanzul Ummaal)
Once the Holy Prophet saw two women offering Prayer and he said, 'When you (women) make Sajdah (prostrate) then let the limbs of your body touch one another and make them touch the ground.' Surely in this (prostration posture) women are not similar to men.' (Masaail Abu Dawood)
Wail ibn Hajar (may Allah be well pleased with him) said that the Holy Prophet taught him to offer Prayer and he said, 'O ibn Hajar! When you begin your Prayer then lift your hands up to your ears and show the women that they should lift up to their chests.' (At-Tabarani)
References
Purpose of Salah:
http://www.themeaningofislam.org/five_pillars/salahSalāh/purpose.html
How to perform Salah: - looks like copied from Wikipedia
www.wikipedia.com, http://www.islamicity.com/mosque/salat/salat9.htm, http://www.sunniforum.com/forum/showthread.php?39550-How-to-perform-salah-correctly, http://islam1.org/how_to_pray/salah.htm, http://www.sunnidawateislami.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=22&Itemid=72, http://www.muslims.studentorgs.umich.edu/downloads/prayer%20times/Meaning%20of%20the%20Prayers.pdf
Types of prayer:
(http://alquraan.net/namaz/types.htm m)
Salat-ul-witr
http://www.islamintro.8m.com/wajibwitr.htm
Taraweeh:
http://islamqa.info/en/ref/65572
http://islam.about.com/cs/ramadan/a/taraweeh.htm
http://www.haqislam.org/the-1400-year-history-of-taraweeh-salaah/
Tahajjud:
http://www.sunniforum.com/forum/showthread.php?13945-Witr-and-Tahajjud
Salāt-ul-Istisqa
http://www.salatenglish.at-tahreek.com/salatenglish/18.html
http://www.ymsite.com/books/fiqhussunnah/fus2_22.html
Salāt-ul-Kusuf / SalatSalāt-ul-Khusuf
http://www.thewaytotruth.org/pillars/prayer2.html#specific
Overall:
www.wikipedia.com
Mode of Prayer (Salāh) For Women-
http://www.alahazrat.net/islam/the-mode-of-prayer-(salaat)-for-women.phphttp://www.alahazrat.net/islam/the-mode-of-prayer-(salaat)-for-women.php
Salāh is the name given to the formal Islamic prayer. In Arabic language the basic meaning of Salāh is “Supplication”. In religious terminology, Salāh is used to refer to the acts of bowing and prostration, the remaining specified acts associated with it, specified at certain times, with those known conditions, and the characteristics, and requirements that are well-known about it.
The supreme importance of Salāh for Muslims is indicated by its status as one of the paradigmatic Five Pillars of Islam. Salāh is an important pillar of Islam, to the extent that it was legislated by Allah Himself directly to Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) without any mediator.
Offering Salāh is obligatory on all adult Muslims, with a few dispensations for those for whom it would be difficult. For those whom it is physically difficult they can perform Salāh in a way suitable for them. If the person cannot stand, they should pray sitting. If they cannot sit either, they should do so with gestures by hands or eyes.
In central and South Asian languages such as Persian, Urdu, Hindi, Bengali, Albanian language and Turkic languages Salāh is also called “Namāz” (نماز) from the Indo-European root meaning 'to bow or prostrate'. The person performing Salāh is a musallī (مصلى), while the traditional prayer mat on which prayer is performed is a musalla
Salāh is the name given to the formal Islamic prayer. In the Arabic language, the basic meaning of Salah is “Supplication”. In religious terminology, Salah is used to refer to the acts of bowing and prostration, the remaining specified acts associated with it, specified at certain times, with those known conditions, and the characteristics, and requirements that are well-known about it.
Its supreme importance for Muslims is indicated by its status as one of the paradigmatic Five Pillars of Islam. Salah is an important pillar of Islam, to the extendt, that it was legislated by Allah Himself directly to Prophet Muhammad without any mediator.
Offering Salāh is obligatory on all adult Muslims, with a few dispensations for those for whom it would be difficult. For those whom it is physically difficult they can perform Salah in a way suitable for them.
In central and South Asian languages such as Persian, Urdu, Hindi, Bengali, Albanian language and Turkic languages Salah is also called “Namāz” (نماز) from the Indo-European root meaning 'to bow or prostrate'. The person performing Salah is a musallī (مصلى), while the traditional prayer mat on which prayer is performed is a musalla
Purpose of Salāh:
The chief purpose of Salāh in Islam is to act as a person's communication with and remembrance of Allah. It enables one to stand in front of Allah (SWT), praise Him, thank Him, and ask (forgiveness and Jannah) of Him. In addition, daily worship reminds Muslims to give thanks for Allah's blessings and that submission to Allah takes precedence over all other concerns, thereby revolving their life around Allah and submitting to His will.
The chief purpose of Salāh in Islam is to act as a person's communication with and remembrance of Allah. It enables one to stand in front of Allah (SWT), praise Him, thank Him, and ask (forgiveness and Jannah) of Him. In addition, daily worship reminds Muslims to give thanks for Allah's blessings and that submission to Allah takes precedence over all other concerns, thereby revolving their life around Allah and submitting to His will.
The chief purpose of Salah in Islam is to act as a person's communication with and remembrance of God. It enables one to stand in front of Allah (SWT), praise Him, thank Him, and ask (forgiveness and Jannah) of Him. In addition, daily worship remind Muslims to give thanks for God's blessings and that submission to God takes precedence over all other concerns, thereby revolving their life around God and submitting to His will.
Citations / Verses about Salāh in Quran
Citations / Verses about Salāh in Hadeeth
Conditions
Belief (in Islam)
Age
Mental Condition
Physical condition
Direction
Citations / Verses about Salāh in Quran
- “O you who believe! Seek help in patience and prayer. Truly! Allah is with the patient.” (Quran 11:153)
- “Truly, those who believe and do righteous deeds, and perform Salāh, and give Zakah, they will have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.” (Quran 2:277)
- “This is the Book in which there is no doubt, a guidance for those who have taqwa; who believe in the unseen, and who establish Salāh, and spend out of what we have provided for them” (Quran 2: 2-3)
- “The believers, men and women, are protecting friends of one another; they enjoin good and forbid evil, and they establish Salāh, and give Zakah, and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah will have His Mercy on them, and surely, Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.” (Quran 9: 71)
- "Verily, the prayer keeps onefrom the great sins and evil deeds" Qur'an , Surah Al Ankabut 45
- “Recite that which has been revealed to you of the Book, and perform Salāh. Verily, Salāh prevents from lewdness and evils. And indeed, the remembrance of Allah (by you) is greatest. And Allah knows what you do.” (Quran 29:45)
- “Oh you who believe! When the call is made for the Salāh on Friday, come to the remembrance of Allah, and leave off business. That is better for you, if you only knew! And when the Salāh has ended, you may disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Allah, and remember Allah much so that you may be successful.” (Quran 629-10)
- “Indeed, your protecting friend (Wali) is none other than Allah, His Messenger, and the Believers who establish Salāh, and give Zakat, and bow down (in prayer). (Quran 5: 55)
- “(And remain always) turning to Him (only), and be fearful and dutiful towards Him, and perform Salāh and be not of those who commit Shirk.” (Quran 30: 31)
- “(And remain always) turning to Him (only), and be fearful and dutiful towards Him, and perform Salāh and be not of those who commit Shirk.”(Quran 30: 31)
Citations / Verses about Salāh in Hadeeth
- Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) was asked: "Which of the actions is best?" He replied: "Observing prayer early in its period." (Abu Dawud 2: 426)
- On the authority of Hadrat Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him), who said that Allah's Messenger (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) said: The first of his actions for which a servant of Allah (The Glorified and the Exalted) will be held accountable on the Day of Resurrection will be his prayers. If they are in order, then he will have prospered and succeeded; and if they are wanting, then he will have failed and lost. If there is something defective in his obligatory prayers, the Lord (The Glorified and the Exalted) will say: See if My servant has any optional prayers with which may be completed that which was defective in his obligatory prayers. Then the rest of his actions will be judged in like fashion. (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud, an-Nasai, Ibn Majah and Ahmad).
- Hazrat Abu Darda (may Allah be pleased with him) said: They Holy Prophet (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) said, "If they are three persons in a habitation or in a jungle and they do not say their prescribed prayers jointly, it would mean that the devil has gained ascendency over them. Therefore, make a rule for yourselves to say congregational prayers, for a goat which leaves the flock is devoured by the wolf." (Ahmad, Abu Dawud, an-Nasai)
- Hazrat Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) said, "Let anyone tell me; if a stream flows by the house of any person and he baths in it five times a day, whether any dirt will remain on his body." The companions replied that no dirt would remain in such a case. He said, "So is the case with prescribed prayers. Allah forgives men's sins (minor) on their account." (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Muslim)
- Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "Salāh is a pillar of the religion (Islam). He who establishes it, establishes religion; and he who destroys it, destroys religion." (At-Tabarani)
Conditions
Belief (in Islam)
- The person offering Salāh has to be a Muslim (Has to believe in the oneness of Allah and that none other than Him is worthy of worship).
- The person offering Salah has to be a Muslim (Has to believe in the oneness of Allah and that none other than Him is worthy of worship).
Age
- The person offering Salāh has to have reached puberty (at least of 10 yrs age)
- The person offering Salah has to have reached puberty (at least of 10 yrs age)
Mental Condition
- The person offering Salāh has to be of a sound mind.
- The person offering Salah has to be of a sound mind.
Physical condition
- In a few cases where blood is leaving the body, Salāh is forbidden until a later time. Women are not allowed to pray during their menses nor for a period after childbirth.
- For those whom it is physically difficult they can perform Salāh in a way suitable for them (sitting or even sleeping). If the person cannot stand, they should pray sitting. If they cannot sit either, they should do so with gestures by hands or eyes.
- In a few cases where blood is leaving the body, Salah is forbidden until a later time. Women are not allowed to pray during their menses nor for a period after childbirth. For those whom it is physically difficult they can perform Salah in a way suitable for them (sitting or even sleeping). (Include citation about this in Hadeeth).
Direction
- The person offering Salāh has to face the “Qibla”, with the chest facing the direction of the Kaaba (Makkah).
- The person offering Salah has to face the “Qibla”, with the chest facing the direction of the Kaaba (Makkah).
Clean clothes, body, place of prostration
- Islam advises that Salāh be performed in a ritually clean environment. Also the clothes worn & the person offering Salāh himself have to be neat and clean.
- Islam advises that Salah be performed in a ritually clean environment. Also the clothes worn & the person offering Salah himself have to be neat and clean.
Wudhu/Wudu (Ritual Ablution)
- Before conducting Salāh, a Muslim has to perform a ritual ablution. Wudhu is a ceremonial act of washing and wiping the hands, face, arms, head and feet.
- Before conducting Salah, a Muslim has to perform a ritual ablution. Wudhu is a ceremonial act of washing and wiping the hands, face, arms, head and feet.
- Wudhu is performed by Muslims by washing the hands, mouth, nose, arms, face, hair, ears,(often washing the hair is merely drawing the already wet hands from the fringe to the nape of the neck) and feet three times each in that order. (It is not obligatory to wash the hair three times, once is sufficient, and men must also wash their beards and mustaches when washing the face).
Praying in front of a Sutrah
- Sutrah is an object used by a person performing Salāh as a barrier between himself and one passing in front of him.
- Sutrah is an object used by a person performing Salah as a barrier between himself and one passing in front of him.
Preparation
Cleanliness and dress
Islam advises that Salāh be performed in a ritually clean environment. When worshipping, the clothes that are worn and the place of prayer must be clean. Both men and women are required to cover their bodies (awrah) in reasonably loose-fitting garments. The well-known adage or hadith by al-Nawawi that "purity is half the faith"[21] illustrates how Islam has incorporated and modified existing rules of purity in its religious system.
Islam advises that Salah be performed in a ritually clean environment. When worshipping, the clothes that are worn and the place of prayer must be clean. Both men and women are required to cover their bodies (awrah) in reasonably loose-fitting garments. The well-known adage or hadith by al-Nawawi that "purity is half the faith"[21] illustrates how Islam has incorporated and modified existing rules of purity in its religious system.
Islam advises that Salāh be performed in a ritually clean environment. When worshipping, the clothes that are worn and the place of prayer must be clean. Both men and women are required to cover their bodies (awrah) in reasonably loose-fitting garments. The well-known adage or hadith by al-Nawawi that "purity is half the faith"[21] illustrates how Islam has incorporated and modified existing rules of purity in its religious system.
Islam advises that Salah be performed in a ritually clean environment. When worshipping, the clothes that are worn and the place of prayer must be clean. Both men and women are required to cover their bodies (awrah) in reasonably loose-fitting garments. The well-known adage or hadith by al-Nawawi that "purity is half the faith"[21] illustrates how Islam has incorporated and modified existing rules of purity in its religious system.
Wudhu (Ablution)
Meaning and importance
The literal meaning of the Arabic term ‘Wudhu’ means to do something to become pure, or clean, or to shine, or be beautiful. When the term ‘Wudhu’ is used in Islamic terminology, it means the rite or act to wash or wipe the specific parts of the body as guided by Allah and His Messenger (saws) before one can make themselves available for prayer.
Wudhu is performed before praying or touching the text of the Quran. Without wudhu those activities would be void and unlawful.
Allah (SWT) says in the Quran, "O you who believe! when you rise up to prayer, wash your faces and your hands as far as the elbows, and wipe your heads and your feet to the ankles; and if you are under an obligation to perform a total ablution, then wash (yourselves) and if you are sick or on a journey, or one of you come from the privy, or you have touched the women, and you cannot find water, betake yourselves to pure earth and wipe your faces and your hands therewith, Allah does not desire to put on you any difficulty, but He wishes to purify you and that He may complete His favor on you, so that you may be grateful."
— Qur'an, sura 5 (Al-Ma'ida), ayat 6
Narrated Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him): Prophet (Peace be upon him) said: The Prayer of anyone of you breaching purification is not accepted unless he makes wudhu. [Al-Bukhaai, (Fath ul-Baaree, 1/206), Muslim (no.225) and others].
Narrated Ibn 'Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) said: Indeed I heard Prophet (Peace be upon him) say: Allah does not accept Prayer without purification, nor Sadaqah from illegally attained wealth. [Muslim (1/160)].
The literal meaning of the Arabic term ‘Wudu’ means to do something to become pure, or clean, or to shine, or be beautiful. When the term ‘Wudu’ is used in Islamic terminology, it means the rite or act to wash or wipe the specific parts of the body as guided by Allah and His Messenger (saws) before one can make themselves available for prayer.
The literal meaning of the Arabic term ‘Wudhu’ means to do something to become pure, or clean, or to shine, or be beautiful. When the term ‘Wudhu’ is used in Islamic terminology, it means the rite or act to wash or wipe the specific parts of the body as guided by Allah and His Messenger (saws) before one can make themselves available for prayer.
Wudhu is performed before praying or touching the text of the Quran. Without wudhu those activities would be void and unlawful.
Allah (SWT) says in the Quran, "O you who believe! when you rise up to prayer, wash your faces and your hands as far as the elbows, and wipe your heads and your feet to the ankles; and if you are under an obligation to perform a total ablution, then wash (yourselves) and if you are sick or on a journey, or one of you come from the privy, or you have touched the women, and you cannot find water, betake yourselves to pure earth and wipe your faces and your hands therewith, Allah does not desire to put on you any difficulty, but He wishes to purify you and that He may complete His favor on you, so that you may be grateful."
— Qur'an, sura 5 (Al-Ma'ida), ayat 6
Narrated Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him): Prophet (Peace be upon him) said: The Prayer of anyone of you breaching purification is not accepted unless he makes wudhu. [Al-Bukhaai, (Fath ul-Baaree, 1/206), Muslim (no.225) and others].
Narrated Ibn 'Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) said: Indeed I heard Prophet (Peace be upon him) say: Allah does not accept Prayer without purification, nor Sadaqah from illegally attained wealth. [Muslim (1/160)].
The literal meaning of the Arabic term ‘Wudu’ means to do something to become pure, or clean, or to shine, or be beautiful. When the term ‘Wudu’ is used in Islamic terminology, it means the rite or act to wash or wipe the specific parts of the body as guided by Allah and His Messenger (saws) before one can make themselves available for prayer.
Wudhu is performed before praying or touching the text of the Quran. Without wudhu those activities would be void and unlawful.
Allah says in the Quran, "O you who believe! when you rise up to prayer, wash your faces and your hands as far as the elbows, and wipe your heads and your feet to the ankles; and if you are under an obligation to perform a total ablution, then wash (yourselves) and if you are sick or on a journey, or one of you come from the privy, or you have touched the women, and you cannot find water, betake yourselves to pure earth and wipe your faces and your hands therewith, Allah does not desire to put on you any difficulty, but He wishes to purify you and that He may complete His favor on you, so that you may be grateful."
Qur'an, sura 5 (Al-Ma'ida), ayat 6
Allah says in the Quran, "O you who believe! when you rise up to prayer, wash your faces and your hands as far as the elbows, and wipe your heads and your feet to the ankles; and if you are under an obligation to perform a total ablution, then wash (yourselves) and if you are sick or on a journey, or one of you come from the privy, or you have touched the women, and you cannot find water, betake yourselves to pure earth and wipe your faces and your hands therewith, Allah does not desire to put on you any difficulty, but He wishes to purify you and that He may complete His favor on you, so that you may be grateful."
Qur'an, sura 5 (Al-Ma'ida), ayat 6
Narrated Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him): Prophet (Peace be upon him) said: The Prayer of anyone of you breaching purification is not accepted unless he makes wudoo. [Al-Bukhaaree, (Fath ul-Baaree, 1/206), Muslim (no.225) and others].
Narrated Ibn 'Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) said: Indeed I heard Prophet (Peace be upon him) say: Allah does not accept Prayer without purification, nor Sadaqah from illegally attained wealth. [Muslim (1/160)].
How to perform Wudhu
Rain water
Well water
Spring, sea or river water
Water of melting snow or hail
Water of a big tank or pond
Narrated Ibn 'Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) said: Indeed I heard Prophet (Peace be upon him) say: Allah does not accept Prayer without purification, nor Sadaqah from illegally attained wealth. [Muslim (1/160)].
How to perform Wudhu
- Start by making niyyah (intention) to perform wudu and cleanse the self of impurities.
- Say bismillah.
- Wash the right hand up to the wrist (and between the fingers) three times, then similarly for the left hand.
- Rinse the mouth and spit out the water three times and rub the teeth with a miswak. If a miswak is not available then one should use the finger.
- Gently put water into the nostrils with the right hand, pinch the top of the nose with the left hand to exhale the water. This is performed three times.
- Wash the face (from the hairline on the forehead to where facial hair begins and ear to ear). This is to be performed three times.
- Wash the entire right arm, including the hand, up to and including the elbow three times; then the left arm three times. Pass fingers of one hand between the fingers of the other hand. If wearing a ring it should be moved freely to allow water to pass under it.
- Then perform masah. Wet hands should be passed all over the head; then the first finger of the right and left hand should be moved in the right and left ears respectively and in the same operation thumbs should be passed around the ears; then pass the backs of the hands over the hind part of the neck only. Hands should not be passed around the fore-neck as it is prohibited. This is only done once. One may not make masah over a Muslim head cap. Fresh water need not be taken for performing the masah of the ears.
- Starting with the right foot, wash both feet from the toes up to and including the ankles thrice. The little finger of the left hand should be passed between the toes of both the feet beginning from the little toe of the right foot and ending with the little toe of the left foot.
Rain water
Well water
Spring, sea or river water
Water of melting snow or hail
Water of a big tank or pond
Permitted water types
Permitted water types are Rain water, Well water, Spring / sea or river water, Water of melting snow or hail, Water of a big tank or pond
Prohibited water types
Prohibited water types are unclean or impure water, water extracted from fruit and trees, water that has changed its colour / taste / smell and becomes thick because something was soaked in it, small quantity of water in which something unclean has fallen e.g. urine / blood / stool / wine or some animal had died after falling into it, water left over after drinking by haraam animals e.g. pigs or predatory animals, used water of Wudhu or ghusl (according to the opinion of the Hanbali School).
Prohibited water types are unclean or impure water, water extracted from fruit and trees, water that has changed its colour / taste / smell and becomes thick because something was soaked in it, small quantity of water in which something unclean has fallen e.g. urine / blood / stool / wine or some animal had died after falling into it, water left over after drinking by haraam animals e.g. pigs or predatory animals, used water of Wudhu or ghusl (according to the opinion of the Hanbali School).
- Unclean or impure water
- Water extracted from fruit and trees
- Water that has changed its colour, taste and smell and becomes thick because something was soaked in it
- Small quantity of water in which something unclean has fallen, e.g. urine, blood, stool or wine or some animal had died after falling into it
- Water left over after drinking by haraam animals, e.g. pigs or predatory animals.
Ways by which Wudu/Wudhu is invalidated
Traditionally Muslims believe that certain acts invalidate the wudu (often referred to as "breaking wudu") and these can be stated generically thus, although the Quran does not explain most of these:
Traditionally Muslims believe that certain acts invalidate the wudu (often referred to as "breaking wudu") and these can be stated generically thus, although the Quran does not explain most of these:
- Defecation, passing gas or urination
- Emission of semen (ghusl is required)
- Sleep while reclining
- Vomiting
- Loss of senses
- Fainting
- Laughing aloud whilst in Salāh
- Sexual contact with another person (ghusl is required)
- Touching the private parts with the bare hands
- Blood or pus leaving the body so that it leaves the point of exit (however if the blood or pus exits from the private parts then any amount breaks wudu)
When to perform Tayammum (Dry Ablution)
http:// www.wikipedia.com
Allah Says: "O you who believe! When you intend to offer As-Salāhat (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: Surah 5 (Al-Mai'da), Ayat 6
Tayammum is the Islamic act of dry ablution using sand or dust, which may be performed in place of ritual washing (wudhu or ghusl) if no clean water is readily available.
Tayammum may be substituted for wudu or ghusl when access to water is restricted or impractical, namely:
http:// www.wikipedia.com
Allah Says: "O you who believe! When you intend to offer As-Salāhat (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: Surah 5 (Al-Mai'da), Ayat 6
Tayammum is the Islamic act of dry ablution using sand or dust, which may be performed in place of ritual washing (wudhu or ghusl) if no clean water is readily available.
Tayammum may be substituted for wudu or ghusl when access to water is restricted or impractical, namely:
- When sufficient amounts of water for ritual washing are not available, including when using the available water for wudu or ghusl would leave insufficient water for drinking.
- When obtaining water is hazardous or prohibitively expensive.
- When using water poses a health risk.
- When the water available is impure.
Performing Tayammum
Tayammum consists of the following steps:
Finding a piece of ground which is free of najaasah (things regarded as ritually unclean). This could be any natural surface such as rock, sand, or dust.
- Recite the Bismillah.
- Make niyyah, or intention to make Tayammum.
- Place the hands on the surface of the ground.
- Lift hands with palms downwards, ensuring that no dust remains, may rub them together.
- Rub face with hands.
- Press hands to ground and touch sides of hands together.
- Rub right arm with left hand, from the fingers to the elbow, and back along the inner arm to the hand. Do the same with the other arm.
The same conditions that invalidate wudu also invalidate tayammum. In addition, a person's tayammum is invalidated as and when water becomes available.
Permitted Items for Tayammum
Tayammum is permitted on the items like Taahir (pure) earth, Sand, Stone, Limestone, Baked earthen pots (unglazed), Walls of mud / stone / brick, Clay and all items which have thick dust on them.
Prohibited Items for Tayammum
Items on which Tayammum is not permitted on the items like Wood, Metal, Glass, Food Items, all items which rot / melt / burn to ash.
Intention (Niyyath)
The person should be conscious and aware of the particular SalahSalāh that is being offered, whether it is obligatory, if it is a missed (qadha) worship, performed individually or among the congregation, a shortened traveller's worship etc. The explicit verbalization of this intention is not required, though it can be helpful. The person should think his worship to be the Last Worship so that he may perform the best he can.
How to perform Salāh
Items on which Tayammum is not permitted on the items like Wood, Metal, Glass, Food Items, all items which rot / melt / burn to ash.
Intention (Niyyath)
The person should be conscious and aware of the particular SalahSalāh that is being offered, whether it is obligatory, if it is a missed (qadha) worship, performed individually or among the congregation, a shortened traveller's worship etc. The explicit verbalization of this intention is not required, though it can be helpful. The person should think his worship to be the Last Worship so that he may perform the best he can.
How to perform Salāh
Important Positions in Salāh
1. Qiyaam (Standing)
2. Ruku (To bow)
3. Sajda (Prostration)
4. Qai’da (Sitting)
1. Qai'da-e- Akhira (Last sitting)
Procedure of the Salāh
Position 1 (Qiyaam)
1. Stand upright facing the direction of Al-Kaaba (Makkah) from whichever place you are offering Salāh. This position is called Qiyaam and the direction is called Qiblah in Arabic. Note that the direction of the fingers on your feet should also be towards the Qiblah.
2. Make Niyyah (intention) in your heart for the Salāh you want to offer. Recite “Inni wajihatu wajiha lillazi fatarassamawaati wal arzi hanifau(n) wa ma aana minal mushrikeen”.
3. Commence the prayer by raising your hands up to your ears in a way that palms face Qiblah and the end of the thumbs either touch the lobes of the ears or come parallel to them and tell the Takbeer (Takbeeratul Ihram), which is "Allāhu 'Akbar" (meaning Allah is the Greatest). This is done before, with or after the Takbeer. This marks the commencement of the prayer.
4. Then using the thumb and the little finger of your right hand, make a circle round the wrist of your left hand and hold it. You should then spread out the three remaining fingers of your right hand on the back of your left hand so that these three fingers face the elbow. Place both hands slightly below the navel, folding them as explained above.
5. Look downward to the place where your forehead will touch the ground in the Sujood (prostration) and recite silently the Thana (Subhaanak-Allaahumma, wa bihamdika, wa tabaarakasmuka, wa ta'aalaa jadduka, wa laa ilaaha ghayruka). The Thana is recited only in the first Raka’ah of any prayer.
6. Then recite Aūdhu bi-llāhi min ash-shaythāni r-rajīm asking refuge of Allah from Shaitaan. Then recite B-ism illāhi r-rahmāni r-rahīm before beginning the recitation of the Quran.
7. Then recite 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. (Ameen)).
8. If this is the first or second raka'ah, then after the recitation of Al-Fatiha, recite a passage / chapter from any other section from the Quran.
Position 2 (Ruku)
9. After reciting Surah Al-Fatiha & the following Surah / section of a Surah, say the takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") and bow down and place your hands on your knees. This position is called Ruku. Bend the upper part of your body up to a point where the neck and back nearly level up. Now recite silently:"Subhana Rabbiyal Adhim" (meaning: Glorified is my Lord, the Almighty) at least thrice.
Position 3 (Qiyaam again)
10. Return to the Qiyaam position (Stand up) from the bowing position saying: "Sami'Allahu liman hamidah" (meaning: Allah hears those who praise Him). After standing say "Rabbana lakal hamd." (meaning: Our Lord, praise be to you).
Position 4 (Sajda)
11. Now say the takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") and prostrate on the floor with your forehead, nose, palms of both hands, your knees, and toes all touching the floor. Keep your arms away from the sides of the body and the ground. This position is called Sajda or Sujood. Now recite silently: "Subhana Rabbiyal Aa'la"(meaning: Glory to Allah, the Exalted) at least thrice.
Position 5 (Qaida)
12. Sit up from the floor saying the takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar"). Sit upright with your knees bent and palms placed on them. When sitting, put your left foot flat on the ground with its toes pointing towards the right and sit on this foot. The right foot should be upright, with the toes touching the ground and bent and pointing towards the Qiblah.
Sit for a time during which "Subhanul-Allah" could be said at least once. While sitting, let your eyes be on the lap. This position is called “Qaida”
Position 6 (Second Sajda)
13. Now say the takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") and again prostrate in the Sujood (Sajda) position. Recite "Subhana Rabbiyal A'la" atleast thrice. Then sit up from this position saying the takbeer.
This completes the first Rak'ah or unit of SalahSalāh. Now stand up for the second Rak'ah and perform it in the same way, except that you do not recite Thana (Subhaanak-Allaahumma, wa bihamdika, wa tabaarakasmuka, wa ta'aalaa jadduka, wa laa ilaaha ghayruka) in the beginning.
Position 7 (Qaida Again)
14. While in the position of Qaida, after the second Sujood (prostration) of the second Rak’ah, recite Tashahhud silently (At-Tahiyyatu lillahi was- Salawatu wat-Tayyibatu. As-Salamu ' alaika ayyuhannabiyyu wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu. Assalamu 'alaina wa’ala ibadil-Lahis –Salihin ashhadu an-La ilaha il-Lal-lahu wa ash hadu anna Muhammadan abduhu wa rasuluhu. When you reach at ashadu an-La raise the index finger of your right hand upward facing about 45 degrees by closing the fist, and drop it back and spread the hand to its original position at il-Lal-lahu.
15. If this is not the last Rak’ah (meaning that if you are offering more than two Rak’ahs prayer) then stand up after you have recited Tashahhud and continue the actions for the remaining Rak'ah(s).
16. If this is the last Rak’ah, then remain seated after Tashahhud and then recite silently Durood-e-Ibrahim. (Allahumma sal-li'ala Muhammadin wa'ala aali Muhammadin, Kama sal-layta 'ala Ibraheema Wa'ala aali Ibraheema innaka Hameedum Majeed. Allahumma baarik 'ala Muhammadin wa'ala ali Muhammadin, Kama barakta 'ala Ibraheema Wa'ala aali Ibraheema innaka Hameedum Majeed.)
17. After Durood-e-Ibrahim recite any one of the following dua 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."
"Allah Humma Rabbana Aatina Fid Dunya Hasanah Wa Fil Akhirate Hasanah Wa Qina Azaban Naar."
Allah Humma Inni Zwalam'tu Nafsi Zulman Kasira. Wala Yag'firuzunu Ba illah anta, fagah'firili magafiratam, min'indika, war'hamni, innaka antal gafur'rur raheem.
Allahum-Maghfirli wali walidayya wali ustadi wali jamee-il momineena wal-mominaati wal muslimeena wal-muslimati al-ahya min amwati innaka mujeebud dawati birahmatika ya Arhamar Rahimeen
Salam
18. Now turn your face to the right saying: Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah (peace and the mercy of Allah be on you) and then to the left repeating the same words. This signifies the end of the SalahSalāh.
Note 1: In three or four Rak'ah Farz SalahSalāh (Zuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha) , after Tashahhud (on the completion of 2nd Rak’ah), you say Takbeer and stand up and only recite Surah Al-Fatiha and no other Surah, then continue doing the rest of the actions to complete the remaining SalahSalāh.
Five Daily Prayers
Allah Subhana Wa Ta’ala has commanded muslims to perform prayers five times a day. These prayers are obligatory on every Muslim who have reached the age of puberty, with the exception being those who are mentally ill, too physically ill for it to be possible, menstruating, or experiencing postnatal bleeding. Those who are ill or otherwise physically unable to offer their prayers in the traditional form are permitted to offer their prayers while sitting or lying, as they are able. The five prayers are each assigned to certain prescribed times(al waqt) at which they must be performed, unless there is a compelling reason for not being able to perform them on time.
The five daily prayers are as below:
Salam
18. Now turn your face to the right saying: Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah (peace and the mercy of Allah be on you) and then to the left repeating the same words. This signifies the end of the SalahSalāh.
Note 1: In three or four Rak'ah Farz SalahSalāh (Zuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha) , after Tashahhud (on the completion of 2nd Rak’ah), you say Takbeer and stand up and only recite Surah Al-Fatiha and no other Surah, then continue doing the rest of the actions to complete the remaining SalahSalāh.
Five Daily Prayers
Allah Subhana Wa Ta’ala has commanded muslims to perform prayers five times a day. These prayers are obligatory on every Muslim who have reached the age of puberty, with the exception being those who are mentally ill, too physically ill for it to be possible, menstruating, or experiencing postnatal bleeding. Those who are ill or otherwise physically unable to offer their prayers in the traditional form are permitted to offer their prayers while sitting or lying, as they are able. The five prayers are each assigned to certain prescribed times(al waqt) at which they must be performed, unless there is a compelling reason for not being able to perform them on time.
The five daily prayers are as below:
Sl. No.
|
Salāh
|
Prescribed time period
(waqt)
|
1
|
Fajr
|
Dawn to sunrise,
should be read at least 10–15 minutes before sunrise
|
2
|
Zuhr
|
Noon time after the
sun has surpassed its highest above you
|
3
|
Asr
|
Evening
|
4
|
Maghrib
|
After sunset until
dusk
|
5
|
Isha
|
Dusk until dawn
|
Types of prayers
Farz As-salat
Farz prayers are obligatory prayers that have to be performed unless circumstances allow otherwise. Not performing these prayers is considered a serious sin to the extent that denying a Farz Prayer makes one equal to a non-Muslim.
Allah says in the Quran “(And remain always) turning to Him (only), and be fearful and dutiful towards Him, and perform Salāh and be not of those who commit Shirk.” (Surah Room 30: 31)<Include Citations from Hadeeth about missing Farz Salah>
7.1.1 Farz in the five daily prayers
The following are the Farz prayers in the daily Salāh.
Jumu'ah
The second type of Farz Salāh is attending the special Jum’ah (Friday) prayers.
Salāt-ul-Jum'ah is a 2 Rak’ah congregational prayer on Friday which replaces the Farz Salāh of Zuhr prayer (only on Friday). It is compulsory upon men to perform it in congregation, while women may perform it so or may perform Zuhr Salāath at home. Salāt-ul-Jum'ah consists of a sermon (Khutba) given by the speaker (Khatib) after which 2 Raka'ah Salāh is performed. There is no Salāt-ul-Jum'ah without a Khutba.
Allah says in the Quran:
“O ye who believe! When the call is heard for the prayer of the day of congregation (i.e. Jumaah), haste unto remembrance of Allah and leave your trading. That is better for you if ye did but know. And when the prayer is ended, then disperse in the land and seek of Allah's bounty, and remember Allah much, that ye may be successful. But when they spy some merchandise or pastime they break away to it and leave thee standing (giving Khutba). Say: That which Allah hath is better than pastime and than merchandise, and Allah is the Best of providers.” (The Holy Quran 62:9-11)
Abu Huraira Radiyallahu ‘anhu reported Allah’s Messenger Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam as saying: “Any person who takes a bath on Friday like the bath of Janaba and then goes for the prayer (in the first hour i.e. early), it is as if he had sacrificed a camel (in Allah’s cause); and whoever goes in the second hour it is as if he had sacrificed a cow; and whoever goes in the third hour, then it is as if he had sacrificed a horned ram; and if one goes in the fourth hour, then it is as if he had sacrificed a hen; and whoever goes in the fifth hour then it is as if he had offered an egg. When the Imam comes out (i.e. starts delivering the Khutba), the angels present themselves to listen to the Khutba.”
(Bukhari)
Farz prayers are obligatory prayers that have to be performed unless circumstances allow otherwise. Not performing these prayers is considered a serious sin to the extent that denying a Farz Prayer makes one equal to a non-Muslim.
Allah says in the Quran “(And remain always) turning to Him (only), and be fearful and dutiful towards Him, and perform Salāh and be not of those who commit Shirk.” (Surah Room 30: 31)<Include Citations from Hadeeth about missing Farz Salah>
7.1.1 Farz in the five daily prayers
The following are the Farz prayers in the daily Salāh.
Sl. No
|
Salāh
|
Farz Salāh
|
1
|
Fajr
|
2 Rakaah
|
2
|
Zuhr
|
4 Rakaah
|
3
|
Asr
|
4 Rakaah
|
4
|
Maghrib
|
3 Rakaah
|
5
|
Isha
|
4 Rakaah
|
Jumu'ah
The second type of Farz Salāh is attending the special Jum’ah (Friday) prayers.
Salāt-ul-Jum'ah is a 2 Rak’ah congregational prayer on Friday which replaces the Farz Salāh of Zuhr prayer (only on Friday). It is compulsory upon men to perform it in congregation, while women may perform it so or may perform Zuhr Salāath at home. Salāt-ul-Jum'ah consists of a sermon (Khutba) given by the speaker (Khatib) after which 2 Raka'ah Salāh is performed. There is no Salāt-ul-Jum'ah without a Khutba.
Allah says in the Quran:
“O ye who believe! When the call is heard for the prayer of the day of congregation (i.e. Jumaah), haste unto remembrance of Allah and leave your trading. That is better for you if ye did but know. And when the prayer is ended, then disperse in the land and seek of Allah's bounty, and remember Allah much, that ye may be successful. But when they spy some merchandise or pastime they break away to it and leave thee standing (giving Khutba). Say: That which Allah hath is better than pastime and than merchandise, and Allah is the Best of providers.” (The Holy Quran 62:9-11)
Abu Huraira Radiyallahu ‘anhu reported Allah’s Messenger Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam as saying: “Any person who takes a bath on Friday like the bath of Janaba and then goes for the prayer (in the first hour i.e. early), it is as if he had sacrificed a camel (in Allah’s cause); and whoever goes in the second hour it is as if he had sacrificed a cow; and whoever goes in the third hour, then it is as if he had sacrificed a horned ram; and if one goes in the fourth hour, then it is as if he had sacrificed a hen; and whoever goes in the fifth hour then it is as if he had offered an egg. When the Imam comes out (i.e. starts delivering the Khutba), the angels present themselves to listen to the Khutba.”
(Bukhari)
Salāt-ul-Janazah (Funeral Prayer)
Salāt-ul-Janazah is the funeral prayer held by Muslims before the burial but after the shrouding of the body. The prayer is performed in congregation to seek pardon for the deceased and all dead Muslims. The Salāt-ul-Janazah is a collective obligation upon Muslims (Farz Kifayah).
Salāt-ul-Janazah is the funeral prayer held by Muslims before the burial but after the shrouding of the body. The prayer is performed in congregation to seek pardon for the deceased and all dead Muslims. The Salāt-ul-Janazah is a collective obligation upon Muslims (Farz Kifayah).
Sequence of Janazah prayer
Before starting the prayer it is appropriate to observe the following:
- It is better that those praying divide themselves into three rows facing the qibla with the Imam in front.
- Put the body (or bodies) in front of the Imam.
- The Imam should stand by the middle of the body if the deceased is a man and by the shoulder if she is a woman.
- If there is more than one body, then they should be put one in front of the other, those of the men nearest to the Imam and those of the women furthest from him.
Sequence:
1. Having the appropriate Niyyah in your heart, raise your hands in the usual manner and say the Takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar"). Then fold your hands as in Qiyaam position. Recite Surah Al-Fatiha, followed by some other recitation from the Quran, quietly.
2. Say the second takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") without raising the hands & recite Darood-e-Ibrahim as in Tashahhud.
3. Say the third takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") without raising the hands & make du'a for the deceased.
The best is to say: “Allaahumma ighfir lihaayina wa mayitina wa shaahidina wa ghaa’ibina wa sagheerina wa kabeerina wa dhakarina wa unthaana. Allaahumma man ahyaytahu minna fa ahyihi ‘ala’l-Islam wa man tawaffaytahu minna fa tawiffahu ‘ala’l-eemaan. Allaahumma ighfir lahu warhamhu wa ‘aafihi wa a’fu ‘anhu, wa akrim nuzulahu wa wassi’ madkhalahu waghsilhu bi’l-maa’ wa’l-thalj wa’l-barad, wa naqqihi min al-khataaya kama yunaqqa’ al-thawb al-abyad min al-danas. Allaahumma abdilhu daaran khayra min daarihi wa ahlan khayra min ahlihi. Allaahumma adkhilhu al-jannah wa a’idhhu min ‘adhaab il-qabri wa min ‘adhaab il-naar wa afsah lahu fi qabrihi wa nawwir lahu fihi. Allaahumma laa tahrimna ajrahu wa la tadillanaa ba’dahu”
(meaning: O Allaah, forgive our living and our dead, those who are present among us and those who are absent, our young and our old, our males and our females. O Allaah, whoever You keep alive, keep him alive in Islam, and whoever You cause to die, cause him to die with faith. O Allaah, forgive him and have mercy on him, keep him safe and sound and forgive him, honour the place where he settles and make his entrance wide; wash him with water and snow and hail, and cleanse him of sin as a white garment is cleansed of dirt. O Allaah, give him a house better than his house and a family better than his family. O Allaah, admit him to Paradise and protect him from the torment of the grave and the torment of Hell-fire; make his grave spacious and fill it with light. O Allaah, do not deprive us of the reward and do not cause us to go astray after this).” (Source unknown)
Du’’a can also be made with other words, for example, you could say,
“Allaahumma in kaana muhsinan fa zid fi ihsaanihi wa in kaana musee’an fa tajaawaz ‘an sayi’aatihi. Allaahumma ighfir lahu wa thabbit-hu bi’l-qawl il-thaabit”
(meaning: O Allaah, if he was a doer of good, then increase his good deeds, and if he was a wrongdoer, then overlook his bad deeds. O Allaah, forgive him and give him the strength to say the right thing).”
4. Say the fourth takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") without raising the hands, followed by a short pause. Then finally turn your face to the right saying: Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah (peace and the mercy of Allah be on you) and then to the left repeating the same words. This signifies the end of the Salāh.
It is clear from this description that all this prayer is done while one is standing - there is no ruku or sujud in it.
Wajib Salah
The literal meaning of the word “Wajib” is something that is compulsory (must do). In religious terminology it refers to that act which is established via evidence that is indefinite in its transmission AND/OR meaning (i.e., which has not been established by an absolute evidence).
The major difference between Farz & Wajib is that: Denying a Farz Salāh without a valid reason makes one a non-Muslim butand denying a Wajib Salāh without valid reason makes one a sinner.
One must make up any missed Farz or Wajib prayers.
Three Rak'at SalatSalāt-ul-Witr in Isha
Salāt-ul Witr is offered after the Farz and Sunnatul-mu'akkadah of Isha Prayers. It contains Three Rak'ahs.
The first two Rak’ahs are offered in the usual manner. In the third Rak'ah, before bowing down for Ruku', say the Takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar"), raising the hands up to the ears, and after placing them in the former position below the navel (as in Qiyaam). Then recite the following Du'a called Du'a-e-Qunoot:
"Allahumma inna nasta'eenuka wa nastaghfiruka wa nu'minu bika wa natawakkalu 'alaika wa nusni 'alaikal khaira wa nashkuruka wa la nakfuruka wa nakhla'u wa natruku manyyakfiruka ; Allahumma iyyaka na'budu wa laka nusalli wa nasjudu wa ilaika nas'aa wa nahfidu wa narjoo rahmataka, wa nakhsha 'azabaka inna 'azabaka bilkuffari mulhiq. "
(meaning: 'O Allah ! we besech Thy help and in Thee pardon and believe in Thee and Trust in Thee, and we praise Thee in the best manner to Thee, and we cast off and forsake one who disobeys Thee. O Allah ! Thee alone do we serve and to Thee do we pray and make obeisance and to Thee do we flee and we are quick (in doing so), and we hope for Thy mercy and fear Thy chastisement; surely Thy chastisement overtakes the unbelievers'.)
Then say the takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") and bow down for Ruku and continue to complete the last Rak’ah and complete the prayer.
Two Salāt-ul-Eid (Rak'at of Eid-ul-Fitr / Eid-ul-Azha )
Salāt-ul-Eid has Two Rak'ahs to perform in the normal way, with the only addition of six takbeers, three of them in the beginning of the first rak'ah, and three of them just before ruku' in the second rak'ah.
1. The detailed way of performing the 'Eid prayer is as follows:
The Imam will begin the prayer without Adhan or Iqamah. He will begin the prayer by reciting takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar"). You should raise your hands up to the ears, and reciting the takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar"), you give a little pause during which you should recite Thana' (Subhanak Allahumma.......)·
2. After the completion of Thana' the Imam will recite takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") three times, and for each of the takbeers you should raise your hands up to the ears, and after saying Allāhu 'Akbar bring them down and leave them earthwards.
3. After the third takbeer, you should set them at the level of your navel as you do in the normal prayer (as in Qiyaam). Now the Imam will recite the Holy Quran (Surah Al Fatiha followed by another section of the Quran), which you should listen quietly. The rest of the Rak'ah will be performed in the normal way.
4. In the second rak'ah, after the Imam finishes the recitation of Quran, before bowing down for Ruku the Imam will say three takbeers once again. At each takbeer you should raise your hands up to the ears, and after saying Allāhu 'Akbar bring them down and leave them earthwards.
5. After these three takbeers have been called and completed, the Imam will say another takbeer for bowing down into the ruku' position. At this takbir you need not raise your hands. You just bow down for your ruku' saying, Allāhu 'Akbar.
6. The rest of the Salāh will be performed in its usual way.
Salāt-ul Witr is offered after the Farz and Sunnatul-mu'akkadah of Isha Prayers. It contains Three Rak'ahs.
The first two Rak’ahs are offered in the usual manner. In the third Rak'ah, before bowing down for Ruku', say the Takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar"), raising the hands up to the ears, and after placing them in the former position below the navel (as in Qiyaam). Then recite the following Du'a called Du'a-e-Qunoot:
"Allahumma inna nasta'eenuka wa nastaghfiruka wa nu'minu bika wa natawakkalu 'alaika wa nusni 'alaikal khaira wa nashkuruka wa la nakfuruka wa nakhla'u wa natruku manyyakfiruka ; Allahumma iyyaka na'budu wa laka nusalli wa nasjudu wa ilaika nas'aa wa nahfidu wa narjoo rahmataka, wa nakhsha 'azabaka inna 'azabaka bilkuffari mulhiq. "
(meaning: 'O Allah ! we besech Thy help and in Thee pardon and believe in Thee and Trust in Thee, and we praise Thee in the best manner to Thee, and we cast off and forsake one who disobeys Thee. O Allah ! Thee alone do we serve and to Thee do we pray and make obeisance and to Thee do we flee and we are quick (in doing so), and we hope for Thy mercy and fear Thy chastisement; surely Thy chastisement overtakes the unbelievers'.)
Then say the takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") and bow down for Ruku and continue to complete the last Rak’ah and complete the prayer.
Two Salāt-ul-Eid (Rak'at of Eid-ul-Fitr / Eid-ul-Azha )
Salāt-ul-Eid has Two Rak'ahs to perform in the normal way, with the only addition of six takbeers, three of them in the beginning of the first rak'ah, and three of them just before ruku' in the second rak'ah.
1. The detailed way of performing the 'Eid prayer is as follows:
The Imam will begin the prayer without Adhan or Iqamah. He will begin the prayer by reciting takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar"). You should raise your hands up to the ears, and reciting the takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar"), you give a little pause during which you should recite Thana' (Subhanak Allahumma.......)·
2. After the completion of Thana' the Imam will recite takbeer ("Allāhu 'Akbar") three times, and for each of the takbeers you should raise your hands up to the ears, and after saying Allāhu 'Akbar bring them down and leave them earthwards.
3. After the third takbeer, you should set them at the level of your navel as you do in the normal prayer (as in Qiyaam). Now the Imam will recite the Holy Quran (Surah Al Fatiha followed by another section of the Quran), which you should listen quietly. The rest of the Rak'ah will be performed in the normal way.
4. In the second rak'ah, after the Imam finishes the recitation of Quran, before bowing down for Ruku the Imam will say three takbeers once again. At each takbeer you should raise your hands up to the ears, and after saying Allāhu 'Akbar bring them down and leave them earthwards.
5. After these three takbeers have been called and completed, the Imam will say another takbeer for bowing down into the ruku' position. At this takbir you need not raise your hands. You just bow down for your ruku' saying, Allāhu 'Akbar.
6. The rest of the Salāh will be performed in its usual way.
Two Rak'at of Eidul-Adha
Two Rak'at offered while/after performing the Tawaaf of K'aba.
This is a Nafl Salāh consisting of two Raka'ahs and performed after completing Tawaf offer 2 Rakats of Nafil Wajib-Al-Tawaf behind and close to Muqam-e-Ibrahim. The Salāh can be performed at any times where Salāh is not forbidden.
Sunnah
The word Sunnah literally means a clear and well trodden path. In religious terminology, Sunnah denotes the practice of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam)(peace be upon him) that he taught and practically instituted as a teacher of the Sharī‘ah and the best exemplar. (It is the name given to the habits of the beloved Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam), peace be upon him).
Sunnah Salāh are optional and were additional voluntary prayers performed by the Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam)(SAW).
Certain Sunnah prayers have prescribed waqts associated with them. Those ordained for before each of the farz prayers must be performed between the first call to prayer (azaan) and the second call (iqaamah) which signifies the start of the farz prayer.[43] Those Sunnah ordained for after the farz prayers can be performed any time between the end of the farz prayers and the end of the current prayer's waqt. Any amount of extra raka'ah may be offered, but most madha'ib prescribe a certain number of rak'ah for each Sunnah SalahSalāh.
They are of two types— Sunnah Muakkadah, and the Sunnah Ghair Muakkadah.
The word Sunnah literally means a clear and well trodden path. In religious terminology, Sunnah denotes the practice of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam)(peace be upon him) that he taught and practically instituted as a teacher of the Sharī‘ah and the best exemplar. (It is the name given to the habits of the beloved Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam), peace be upon him).
Sunnah Salāh are optional and were additional voluntary prayers performed by the Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam)(SAW).
Certain Sunnah prayers have prescribed waqts associated with them. Those ordained for before each of the farz prayers must be performed between the first call to prayer (azaan) and the second call (iqaamah) which signifies the start of the farz prayer.[43] Those Sunnah ordained for after the farz prayers can be performed any time between the end of the farz prayers and the end of the current prayer's waqt. Any amount of extra raka'ah may be offered, but most madha'ib prescribe a certain number of rak'ah for each Sunnah SalahSalāh.
They are of two types— Sunnah Muakkadah, and the Sunnah Ghair Muakkadah.
Sunnaht-e- Muakkadah Maukada
These are the Sunnah prayers which are practiced on a regular basis, which if abandoned cause the abandoner to be regarded as sinful by the Hanafi School.
These are the Sunnah prayers which are practiced on a regular basis, which if abandoned cause the abandoner to be regarded as sinful by the Hanafi School.
Sunnah Ghair Mauakkadah
These are the Sunnah prayers which are practiced on a semi-regular practice by Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam), abandonment of which doesn't render one sinful.
Sunnah in the five daily Prayers
Taraweeh
During Ramadan, special prayers are conducted daily after Isha during which long portions of the Qur'an are recited. These special prayers are known as Taraweeh. Sunni Muslims regard the Taraweeh prayers as Sunnat al-Mu'akkadah.
It is recommended that Muslims attend the taraweeh prayers in the mosque (after Isha), to pray in congregation. However, one may also perform the prayers individually at home. According to tradition, the Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) initially prayed the taraweeh in congregation during Ramadan which is evident in ahaadith. He prayed in congregation for three consecutive nights but discontinued this practice fearing that it would be made mandatory for the Ummah, rather than Sunnah. During the time when Hazrath Umar (RA) was the caliph, he reinstated the praying of Taraweeh in congregation since the Prophet (peace be upon him) had passed away and as such there was no longer any misapprehension of it being made mandatory or not (since everyone was clear that is Sunnah and not Farz or Wajib).
Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1129. According to the version narrated by Muslim (761): “But I feared that night prayers would be made obligatory for you and you would not be able to do them.”
During the standing portions of the prayer (Qiyaam), long sections of the Qur'an are read. The Qur'an is divided into 30 equal parts (called Juz) for the purpose of reading sections of equal length during each of the Ramadan nights. Thus, usually 1/30th of the Qur'an is read in successive nights in Taraweeh prayers, so that by the end of the month the entire Qur'an has been completed. The prayer can be very long (well over an hour), during which one stands upright to read from the Qur'an and performs many cycles of movement (standing, bowing, prostrating, sitting) during the Rak’ahs. After each four Rak’ahs, one sits for a brief period of rest before continuing -- this is where the name taraweeh ("rest prayer") comes from.
Procedure:
It is a 20 Rak’ah prayer offered in the divisions of 2 Rak’ahs at a time. After every 4 Rak’ahs one sits (rests) for a brief period during which he/she has to recite “Subhanal Malikil Quddus. Subhana zil Mulki wal Malakuti, Subhana zil izzati wal azmati wal haybati wal Qudrati, wal kibriyaa'i wal jabaroot Subhanal Malikil hayyil lazi, la yanaamu wa la yamutu, Subbuhun, Quddusun, Rabbuna wa Rabbul malaa'ikati war-rooh. Allahumma ajirna min-an-naar. Ya mujeeru, ya mujeeru, ya mujeer”.
Nafl
( http://www.islamiccentre.org/presentations/naflprayers.pdf )
Nafl salahalāh is a type of optional SalahSalāh in Islam. They are not considered obligatory but are thought to confer extra benefit on the person performing them.
Nafl Salāh are voluntary, and one may offer as many as he or she likes almost any time. There are many specific conditions or situations when one may wish to offer nafl prayers. They cannot be offered at sunrise, true noon, or sunset. The prohibition against salatSalāh at these times is to prevent the practice of sun worship.
Nafl in the five daily Prayers
These are the Sunnah prayers which are practiced on a semi-regular practice by Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam), abandonment of which doesn't render one sinful.
Sunnah in the five daily Prayers
Sl. No
|
Salāh
|
Sunnah
(Before Farz) |
Sunnah
(After Farz) |
1
|
Fajr
|
2
(Muakkadah) |
0
|
2
|
Zuhr
|
4
(Muakkadah) |
2
(Muakkadah) |
3
|
Asr
|
4
(Ghair Muakkadah) |
0
|
4
|
Maghrib
|
0
|
2
|
5
|
Isha
|
4
(Ghair Muakkadah) |
2
(Ghair Muakkadah) |
Taraweeh
During Ramadan, special prayers are conducted daily after Isha during which long portions of the Qur'an are recited. These special prayers are known as Taraweeh. Sunni Muslims regard the Taraweeh prayers as Sunnat al-Mu'akkadah.
It is recommended that Muslims attend the taraweeh prayers in the mosque (after Isha), to pray in congregation. However, one may also perform the prayers individually at home. According to tradition, the Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) initially prayed the taraweeh in congregation during Ramadan which is evident in ahaadith. He prayed in congregation for three consecutive nights but discontinued this practice fearing that it would be made mandatory for the Ummah, rather than Sunnah. During the time when Hazrath Umar (RA) was the caliph, he reinstated the praying of Taraweeh in congregation since the Prophet (peace be upon him) had passed away and as such there was no longer any misapprehension of it being made mandatory or not (since everyone was clear that is Sunnah and not Farz or Wajib).
Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1129. According to the version narrated by Muslim (761): “But I feared that night prayers would be made obligatory for you and you would not be able to do them.”
During the standing portions of the prayer (Qiyaam), long sections of the Qur'an are read. The Qur'an is divided into 30 equal parts (called Juz) for the purpose of reading sections of equal length during each of the Ramadan nights. Thus, usually 1/30th of the Qur'an is read in successive nights in Taraweeh prayers, so that by the end of the month the entire Qur'an has been completed. The prayer can be very long (well over an hour), during which one stands upright to read from the Qur'an and performs many cycles of movement (standing, bowing, prostrating, sitting) during the Rak’ahs. After each four Rak’ahs, one sits for a brief period of rest before continuing -- this is where the name taraweeh ("rest prayer") comes from.
Procedure:
It is a 20 Rak’ah prayer offered in the divisions of 2 Rak’ahs at a time. After every 4 Rak’ahs one sits (rests) for a brief period during which he/she has to recite “Subhanal Malikil Quddus. Subhana zil Mulki wal Malakuti, Subhana zil izzati wal azmati wal haybati wal Qudrati, wal kibriyaa'i wal jabaroot Subhanal Malikil hayyil lazi, la yanaamu wa la yamutu, Subbuhun, Quddusun, Rabbuna wa Rabbul malaa'ikati war-rooh. Allahumma ajirna min-an-naar. Ya mujeeru, ya mujeeru, ya mujeer”.
Nafl
( http://www.islamiccentre.org/presentations/naflprayers.pdf )
Nafl salahalāh is a type of optional SalahSalāh in Islam. They are not considered obligatory but are thought to confer extra benefit on the person performing them.
Nafl Salāh are voluntary, and one may offer as many as he or she likes almost any time. There are many specific conditions or situations when one may wish to offer nafl prayers. They cannot be offered at sunrise, true noon, or sunset. The prohibition against salatSalāh at these times is to prevent the practice of sun worship.
Nafl in the five daily Prayers
Sl. No
|
Salāh
|
Nafl
(after Farz and Sunnah) |
1
|
Fajr
|
0
|
2
|
Zuhr
|
2
|
3
|
Asr
|
0
|
4
|
Maghrib
|
2
|
5
|
Isha
|
2
|
Tahiyat-ul-Wudhu
Tahiyat-ul-wudhu is a 2 Rak’ah Salāh offered after performing wudhu.
Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that once Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam asked Bilal (Radiyallahu 'anhu) at Fajr Salāh: O Bilal! Tell me that deed of yours which is most hopeful (for reward) after embracing Islam, for I heard your footsteps in front of me in Paradise (in my dream).
Bilal (Radiyallahu 'anhu) replied: I have not done anything extroadinary except that whenever I perform Wudu during the day or night, I offer Salāh (Tahiyatul-Wudu) after that, as much as was written or granted for me. (Sahih –al - Bukhari)
7.4.3 Tahiyat-ul-Masjid
This is a Nafl Salāh consisting of two Raka'ahs and performed when first entering a mosque. It is considered to be a way of greeting the place of worship in order to draw nearer to Allah.
Also called "masjidus salam", this is a highly recommended prayer consisting of two Raka'ahs and performed when first entering a mosque. It is considered to be a way of greeting the place of worship in order to draw nearer to Allah.
7.4.4 Ishraq
This is a Nafl Salāh consisting of two Raka'ahs, at the very least, and performed around 20 minutes after sunrise.
The Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) is reported to have said, 'He who performs Fajr Salāh with Jamaat and remains seated in the same place while engaging in Dhikr until after sunrise and thereafter performs 2 Rakaah Nafl Salāh, (Ishraq), he will obtain the reward of one Hajj and one Umrah.' (Tirmizi).
Chasht (Dhuha)
This is a Nafl SalahSalāh consisting of two Rakahs, at the very least, and performed when the sun has risen high and there is heat in its rays. Chasht (Dhuha) Salāh is generally thought to include at least two rakahs, though in some traditions the number is four or even twelve.
This is a Nafl SalahSalāh consisting of two Rakahs, at the very least, and performed when the sun has risen high and there is heat in its rays. Chasht (Dhuha) Salāh is generally thought to include at least two rakahs, though in some traditions the number is four or even twelve.
Awwabeen
This is a Nafl SalahSalāh consisting of six Rakaah and performed after Maghrib SalahSalāh. It is optional to offer with one, two or even three salaams if reading six rakaah. But it is better to say salaam after every two rakaah.
This is a Nafl SalahSalāh consisting of six Rakaah and performed after Maghrib SalahSalāh. It is optional to offer with one, two or even three salaams if reading six rakaah. But it is better to say salaam after every two rakaah.
Tahajjud
Allah says in the Quran:
And during a part of the night, pray Tahajjud beyond what is incumbent on you; maybe your Rabb will raise you to a position of great glory. 17:79
Tahajjud SalahSalāh, also known as the "night prayer", is a Nafl SalahSalāh consisting of two Rakahs at the very least. The time of Tahajjud extends from the time of Isha until Subah Sadiq [true dawn] but it is considered the later into the night that it is prayed, the more rewarding it is, since it's more tempting to sleep the later it gets into the night.
It has been recorded that Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi wassalamWasallam) performed it regularly and encouraged his companions to offer it for its many rewards and benefits.
`Amr ibn `Absah claimed that he heard Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi wassalam) Muhammad saying:
The closest that a servant comes to his Lord is during the middle of the latter portion of the night. If you can be among those who remember Allah the Exalted One at that time, then do so. (At-Tirmidhi)
Ahadith related from Hadhrat Aa'isha (RA) state that Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi wassalam) sometimes performed Tahajjud in the early portion of the night and on some occasions when half the night had passed. However, towards the latter part of his life he frequently performed it in the last portion of the night. As the night progresses, Allah Ta'ala's Mercy and Blessings increase. Hence, the last sixth of the night is most preferred. [Maktoobat Shaikh ul Islaam 77 p 202 - Fatawa Rahimiya vol 2 p 376]
The tahajjud prayer is performed by getting up at night after having a sleept for a while after isha prayer. This is a Sunnah of Muhammad (Sallallahu alahi wassalam)
Narrated Al-Aswad:
I asked 'Aisha "How is the night prayer of the Prophet?" She replied, "He used to sleep early at night, and get up in its last part to pray, and then return to his bed. When the Muadh-dhin pronounced the Adhan, he would get up. If he was in need of a bath he would take it; otherwise he would perform ablution and then go out (for the prayer)."
(Bukhari Volume 2, Book 21, Number 247)
Allah says in the Quran:
And during a part of the night, pray Tahajjud beyond what is incumbent on you; maybe your Rabb will raise you to a position of great glory. 17:79
Tahajjud SalahSalāh, also known as the "night prayer", is a Nafl SalahSalāh consisting of two Rakahs at the very least. The time of Tahajjud extends from the time of Isha until Subah Sadiq [true dawn] but it is considered the later into the night that it is prayed, the more rewarding it is, since it's more tempting to sleep the later it gets into the night.
It has been recorded that Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi wassalamWasallam) performed it regularly and encouraged his companions to offer it for its many rewards and benefits.
`Amr ibn `Absah claimed that he heard Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi wassalam) Muhammad saying:
The closest that a servant comes to his Lord is during the middle of the latter portion of the night. If you can be among those who remember Allah the Exalted One at that time, then do so. (At-Tirmidhi)
Ahadith related from Hadhrat Aa'isha (RA) state that Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi wassalam) sometimes performed Tahajjud in the early portion of the night and on some occasions when half the night had passed. However, towards the latter part of his life he frequently performed it in the last portion of the night. As the night progresses, Allah Ta'ala's Mercy and Blessings increase. Hence, the last sixth of the night is most preferred. [Maktoobat Shaikh ul Islaam 77 p 202 - Fatawa Rahimiya vol 2 p 376]
The tahajjud prayer is performed by getting up at night after having a sleept for a while after isha prayer. This is a Sunnah of Muhammad (Sallallahu alahi wassalam)
Narrated Al-Aswad:
I asked 'Aisha "How is the night prayer of the Prophet?" She replied, "He used to sleep early at night, and get up in its last part to pray, and then return to his bed. When the Muadh-dhin pronounced the Adhan, he would get up. If he was in need of a bath he would take it; otherwise he would perform ablution and then go out (for the prayer)."
(Bukhari Volume 2, Book 21, Number 247)
Salāt-ul-Istikhaarah
Istikhara means to ask Allah to guide one to the right thing concerning any affair in one’s life, especially when one has to choose between two permissible alternatives. SalatSalāt-ul-Istikhaarah is a prayer that one may pray if one must choose between permissible alternatives: It is two Rakahs non-obligatory prayer and can be performed at any times where Salāh is not forbidden.
It is recorded by al-Bukhari in Jabir’s hadith that “The Prophet sallallahu alehi wasallam would teach us al-istikhara for all of our affairs as he would teach us a surah from the Qur’an. He said: ‘If one of you is deliberating over an act, he should pray two non-obligatory rak’at and say:
Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi’ilmika, Wa astaqdiruka bi-qudratika, Wa asaluka min fazlika al-’azim Fa-innaka taqdiru Wala aqdiru, Wa ta’lamu Wala a’lamu, Wa anta ‘allamu l-ghuyub. Allahumma, in kunta ta’lam anna hadha-l-amra Khairun li fi dini wa ma’ashi wa’aqibati amri (or ‘ajili amri wa’ajilihi) Faqdirhu li wa yas-sirhu li thumma barik li Fihi, Wa in kunta ta’lamu anna hadha-lamra shar-run li fi dini wa ma’ashi wa’aqibati amri (or fi’ajili amri wa ajilihi) Fasrifhu anni was-rifni anhu. Waqdir li alkhaira haithu kana Thumma ardini bihi (meaning: “O Allah, I consult You as You are All-Knowing and I appeal to You to give me power as You are Omnipotent, I ask You for Your great favor, for You have power and I do not, and You know all of the hidden matters. O Allah ! If you know that this matter (then he should mention it) is good for me in my religion, my livelihood, and for my life in the Hereafter, (or he said: ‘for my present and future life,’) then make it (easy) for me. And if you know that this matter is not good for me in my religion, my livelihood and my life in the Hereafter, (or he said: ‘for my present and future life,’) then keep it away from me and take me away from it and choose what is good for me wherever it is and please me with it.”)
When one is not clear about the result of the istikhara, the fuqaha mention that it is recommend to repeat it, upto 7 times if necessary (usually done on separate occasions). [cf: Radd al-Muhtar]
It is not necessary that you get a dream or even a "feeling." Rather, the istikhara is a prayer that Allah guide you towards that which is best (khayr) for you. If you do the prayer of guidance (istikhara) with the proper manners, the most important of which is to truly consign the matter to Allah and suspend your own inclinations, then Allah will make events unfold in the direction that is the best for your worldly and next-worldly affairs.
Salāt-ul-Istisqa
‘Istisqa’ means seeking of drinking water. SalatSalāt ul istasqa is a prayer consisting of two rakaah performed during the times of comprehensive drought or no rain to ask Allah for rain (water) and can be performed at any times where salahSalāh is not forbidden. It was introduced first in Madina in the Month of Ramazan of 6th hijrah.
Procedure:
The crowd should proceed to any open field (preferably early in the morning immediately after sun-rise) wearing poorly but clean dress.
Then the crowd offers two Rakah in congregation without Azaan or Iqamah. In the first rak'ah, the imam recites (loudly) Surah Al-A'la after Surah Al-Fatihah and in the second rak'ah, he reads Surah Al-Ghashiyah after Surah Al-Fatihah, and the Imam delivers a khutbah before or after the salahSalāh (with religious instructions about the importance of ‘Istisqa’ to the musallis). After finishing the khutbah, the people present should turn their outer garments around, each placing its left side on his right side and its right side on his left, face the Qiblah for supplication (Dua). Then the two hands will have to be kept straight upward with palms down-ward along with the face.
‘Istisqa’ means seeking of drinking water. SalatSalāt ul istasqa is a prayer consisting of two rakaah performed during the times of comprehensive drought or no rain to ask Allah for rain (water) and can be performed at any times where salahSalāh is not forbidden. It was introduced first in Madina in the Month of Ramazan of 6th hijrah.
Procedure:
The crowd should proceed to any open field (preferably early in the morning immediately after sun-rise) wearing poorly but clean dress.
Then the crowd offers two Rakah in congregation without Azaan or Iqamah. In the first rak'ah, the imam recites (loudly) Surah Al-A'la after Surah Al-Fatihah and in the second rak'ah, he reads Surah Al-Ghashiyah after Surah Al-Fatihah, and the Imam delivers a khutbah before or after the salahSalāh (with religious instructions about the importance of ‘Istisqa’ to the musallis). After finishing the khutbah, the people present should turn their outer garments around, each placing its left side on his right side and its right side on his left, face the Qiblah for supplication (Dua). Then the two hands will have to be kept straight upward with palms down-ward along with the face.
Summary of the Five Daily Prayers
Salāh
|
Prescribed time period
(waqt)
|
Sunnah
(Before Farz) |
Farz
|
Sunnah
(After Farz) |
Nafl
|
Witr
|
Fajr
|
Dawn to sunrise,
should be read at least 10–15 minutes before sunrise
|
2
(Muakkadah) |
2 Rakaah
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
Zuhr
|
Noon time after the
sun has surpassed its highest above you
|
4
(Muakkadah) |
4 Rakaah
|
2
(Muakkadah) |
2
|
0
|
Asr
|
Evening
|
4
(Ghair Muakkadah) |
4 Rakaah
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
Maghrib
|
After sunset until
dusk
|
0
|
3 Rakaah
|
2
(Muakkadah) |
2
|
0
|
Isha
|
Dusk until dawn
|
4
(Ghair Muakkadah) |
4 Rakaah
|
2
(Ghair Muakkadah) |
2
|
3
(Wajib) |
Qada / Qaza (Missed Prayers)
Performing an obligatory prayer (salahSalāh) after its specified time has elapsed (i.e. if they have missed performing it during its specified time) is called compensation (qada)
The scholars agree that it is obligatory for one who has forgotten the salahSalāh or slept through its time to make up the missed (qada') prayer. This opinion is based on the hadith of the Prophet mentioned earlier: "There is no negligence while one is asleep but forgetfulness occurs when one is awake. If one of you forgets the prayer or sleeps through its time, then he should perform the Salāh when he recalls it." The Salāh can be performed at any times where salāh is not forbidden.
Qasr and Jam' bayn as-Salaatayn
When travelling over long distances, one may shorten some prayers, a practice known as qasr. Furthermore, several prayer times may be joined, which is referred to as Jam' bayn as-Salaatayn. Qasr involves shortening the obligatory components of the Dhuhr, Asr, and Isha'a prayers to two raka'ah. Jam' bayn as-Salaatayn combines the Dhuhr and Asr prayers into one prayer offered between noonand sunset, and the Maghrib and Isha'a prayers into one between sunset and Fajr. Neither Qasr nor Jam' bayn as-Salaatayn can be applied to the Fajr prayer.
There is no reference to Qasr during travel within the Qur'an itself; the Qur'an allows for Qasr when there is fear of attack, but does not forbid it for travel in non-hostile circumstances.
Sajdah Sahu (Sajdah of forgetfulness)
There are times in our prayers when we may forget something, or we may have doubt that we have completed an action, etc. Sajda Sahu is made in order to compensate for these types of mistakes occurring in the prayer due to forgetfulness (sahu). It has three causes: 1. Having added something (az-ziyadah), 2. Having omitted something (an-naqs) and 3. Having been in a state of doubt (ash-shak).
If the person praying deliberately adds an extra standing, sitting, bowing or prostration, then his prayer is nullified. If however, he does so due to forgetfulness and does not remember the addition until having completed it, then he can perform Sajda Sahu to compensate it, whereupon his prayer will be rectified. If however, he remembers whilst performing that addition, then it is obligatory upon him to leave that addition and also to perform Sajda Sahu (at the end of the prayer), and then his prayer will be correct. Sajda Sahu is also obligatory in case of mistakes in prayer either regarding the number of rak’ats prayed by the worshipper or regarding the verses read.
Sajdah Sahu can be done in the last rakat after tashahhud right side salaam is done and after that two sajdah are done and again tashahhud, darood and dua is recited and salaam is done on both sides.
It is reported by Abu Sayeed Khadri that the Prophet said, “Whenever anyone amongst you forget in the namaz and is confused as to whether he has offered three rakats or four, it is essential for him to remove this doubt and offer two sajdahs before salaam, in this way his namaz will be set right and it will be a curse on the evil spirit (satan). [Ahmed, Muslim]
Adhān (or Azan)
The Adhān or Azan (as pronounced in India, Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey) is the Islamic call to prayer, recited by the Muazzin before each of the five daily prayers at prescribed times of the day. Muazzin is the person who recites the Adhān in the masjid to call muslims for Prayer.
The Adhan consists of the reciting the following text.
الله أكبر
Allahu Akbar
Allah is greatest
الله أكبر
Allahu Akbar
Allah is greatest
الله أكبر
Allahu Akbar
Allah is greatest
الله أكبر
Allahu Akbar
Allah is greatest
أشهد أن لا اله إلا الله
Ash-hadu an-la ilaha ill-Allah
I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah.
أشهد أن لا اله إلا الله
Ash-hadu an-la ilaha ill-Allah
I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah.
أشهد أن محمدا رسول الله
Ash-hadu anna Muhammad-ar-Rasoolullah
I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.
أشهد أن محمدا رسول الله
Ash-hadu anna Muhammad-ar-Rasoolullah
I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.
حي على الصلاة
Hayya 'ala s-salah
Come to prayer ('Salah').
حي على الصلاة
Hayya 'ala s-salah
Come to prayer ('Salah').
حي على الفلاح
Hayya 'ala 'l-falah
Come to success (Glory).
حي على الفلاح
Hayya 'ala 'l-falah
Come to success (Glory).
الله أكبر
Allāhu Akbar
God is greatest.
الله أكبر
Allāhu Akbar
God is greatest.
لا إله إلا الله
La ilaha ill-Allah
There is none worthy of worship except Allah.
While listening to the adhan, Muslims repeat the same words silently, except when the muezzin says ḥayya 'alas-salāh or ḥayya 'alal-falāḥ they silently say lā hawla wa lā quwata illā billāh (there is no strength or power except from God).
During the Friday prayer (SalatSalāt Al Jumu'ah), there are two adhans; the first is to call the people to the mosque, the second is said before the Imam begins the khutbah (sermon). Just before the prayers start, someone amongst the praying people recites the iqama as in all prayers. The basis for this is that at the time of the Caliph Uthmaan he ordered two adhans to be made, the first of which was to be made in the marketplace to inform the people that the Friday prayer was soon to begin, and the second adhan would be the regular one held in the mosque. Not all Sunnis prefer two adhans as the need for warning the people of the impending time for prayer is no longer essential now that the times for prayers are well known.
Salah timings
Performing an obligatory prayer (salahSalāh) after its specified time has elapsed (i.e. if they have missed performing it during its specified time) is called compensation (qada)
The scholars agree that it is obligatory for one who has forgotten the salahSalāh or slept through its time to make up the missed (qada') prayer. This opinion is based on the hadith of the Prophet mentioned earlier: "There is no negligence while one is asleep but forgetfulness occurs when one is awake. If one of you forgets the prayer or sleeps through its time, then he should perform the Salāh when he recalls it." The Salāh can be performed at any times where salāh is not forbidden.
Qasr and Jam' bayn as-Salaatayn
When travelling over long distances, one may shorten some prayers, a practice known as qasr. Furthermore, several prayer times may be joined, which is referred to as Jam' bayn as-Salaatayn. Qasr involves shortening the obligatory components of the Dhuhr, Asr, and Isha'a prayers to two raka'ah. Jam' bayn as-Salaatayn combines the Dhuhr and Asr prayers into one prayer offered between noonand sunset, and the Maghrib and Isha'a prayers into one between sunset and Fajr. Neither Qasr nor Jam' bayn as-Salaatayn can be applied to the Fajr prayer.
There is no reference to Qasr during travel within the Qur'an itself; the Qur'an allows for Qasr when there is fear of attack, but does not forbid it for travel in non-hostile circumstances.
Sajdah Sahu (Sajdah of forgetfulness)
There are times in our prayers when we may forget something, or we may have doubt that we have completed an action, etc. Sajda Sahu is made in order to compensate for these types of mistakes occurring in the prayer due to forgetfulness (sahu). It has three causes: 1. Having added something (az-ziyadah), 2. Having omitted something (an-naqs) and 3. Having been in a state of doubt (ash-shak).
If the person praying deliberately adds an extra standing, sitting, bowing or prostration, then his prayer is nullified. If however, he does so due to forgetfulness and does not remember the addition until having completed it, then he can perform Sajda Sahu to compensate it, whereupon his prayer will be rectified. If however, he remembers whilst performing that addition, then it is obligatory upon him to leave that addition and also to perform Sajda Sahu (at the end of the prayer), and then his prayer will be correct. Sajda Sahu is also obligatory in case of mistakes in prayer either regarding the number of rak’ats prayed by the worshipper or regarding the verses read.
Sajdah Sahu can be done in the last rakat after tashahhud right side salaam is done and after that two sajdah are done and again tashahhud, darood and dua is recited and salaam is done on both sides.
It is reported by Abu Sayeed Khadri that the Prophet said, “Whenever anyone amongst you forget in the namaz and is confused as to whether he has offered three rakats or four, it is essential for him to remove this doubt and offer two sajdahs before salaam, in this way his namaz will be set right and it will be a curse on the evil spirit (satan). [Ahmed, Muslim]
Adhān (or Azan)
The Adhān or Azan (as pronounced in India, Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey) is the Islamic call to prayer, recited by the Muazzin before each of the five daily prayers at prescribed times of the day. Muazzin is the person who recites the Adhān in the masjid to call muslims for Prayer.
The Adhan consists of the reciting the following text.
الله أكبر
Allahu Akbar
Allah is greatest
الله أكبر
Allahu Akbar
Allah is greatest
الله أكبر
Allahu Akbar
Allah is greatest
الله أكبر
Allahu Akbar
Allah is greatest
أشهد أن لا اله إلا الله
Ash-hadu an-la ilaha ill-Allah
I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah.
أشهد أن لا اله إلا الله
Ash-hadu an-la ilaha ill-Allah
I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah.
أشهد أن محمدا رسول الله
Ash-hadu anna Muhammad-ar-Rasoolullah
I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.
أشهد أن محمدا رسول الله
Ash-hadu anna Muhammad-ar-Rasoolullah
I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.
حي على الصلاة
Hayya 'ala s-salah
Come to prayer ('Salah').
حي على الصلاة
Hayya 'ala s-salah
Come to prayer ('Salah').
حي على الفلاح
Hayya 'ala 'l-falah
Come to success (Glory).
حي على الفلاح
Hayya 'ala 'l-falah
Come to success (Glory).
الله أكبر
Allāhu Akbar
God is greatest.
الله أكبر
Allāhu Akbar
God is greatest.
لا إله إلا الله
La ilaha ill-Allah
There is none worthy of worship except Allah.
While listening to the adhan, Muslims repeat the same words silently, except when the muezzin says ḥayya 'alas-salāh or ḥayya 'alal-falāḥ they silently say lā hawla wa lā quwata illā billāh (there is no strength or power except from God).
During the Friday prayer (SalatSalāt Al Jumu'ah), there are two adhans; the first is to call the people to the mosque, the second is said before the Imam begins the khutbah (sermon). Just before the prayers start, someone amongst the praying people recites the iqama as in all prayers. The basis for this is that at the time of the Caliph Uthmaan he ordered two adhans to be made, the first of which was to be made in the marketplace to inform the people that the Friday prayer was soon to begin, and the second adhan would be the regular one held in the mosque. Not all Sunnis prefer two adhans as the need for warning the people of the impending time for prayer is no longer essential now that the times for prayers are well known.
Salah timings
Prayer in congregation
One of the most important points about prayer is to offer the obligatory ones in congregation. Praying the obligatory ones in congregation is a strong tradition of the Prophet (peace be upon him) praying them in congregation except during the last days of his life when he was seriously ill.
Salāt al-Jamaat at means praying in congregation, with one person leading. The Person who leads is called the Imam, while those who follow him are called the Ma'mum or Ma'mumin (plural). As for the daily prayers, the minimum amount of people needed is two -one, Imam and one Ma'mum. For the Salāt al-Jumu'ah (Friday) there must be a minimum of five people, including the Imam.
Congregational prayer for men is one of the major symbols of Islam, the most emphasized of the Sunnah of Rasoolullah (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) and his joy in this world, and a means for individuals and communities to strengthen their relations with their Lord.
Allah says in the Quran “When you (O Messenger Muhammad) are among them, and lead them in As‑Salaah (the prayer), let one party of them stand up [in Salaah (prayer)] with you taking their arms with them; when they finish their prostrations, let them take their positions in the rear and let the other party come up which have not yet prayed, and let them pray with you”. [Surah an-Nisa’ 4:102]
Ibn Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, "Salāh in congregation is twenty-seven times more meritorious than a Salāh performed individually.'' [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Mode of Prayer (Salāh) For Women
There are some differences between how women and men’s way of performing Salāh. Prayer to be offered by women differs from that of men only in the practical manner of its offering and not in the spiritual sense. The Prayer times, the supplications, the number of prostrations, bows, etc., do not differ. The difference in the physical aspects of Prayer arise from the fact that women’s physique differs from that of men, and follow from the commands which Allah (The Supreme) has stipulated for them in the Holy Quran and through the Hadith of the Holy Prophet.
These are some of the differences.
1. Men raise their hands all the way to the ear for Takbeer while women raise their hands only up to their shoulders.
2. In Qayam (the standing posture) Men place their hands below Navel while women place their hands on their chest.
3. Men grasp their wrist while women do not. They only place right hand on the top of left with fingers intact together.
4. In Ruku (the bowing posture) Men’s back is horizontal while women suppose to bend their back only far enough to touch their knees. Looking from far it will look like a bow arc. They won’t flatten their back.
5. In Sajdah men’s back portion is raised from ground and hands apart from body and fingers of feet twisted while women suppose to be gathered in a way so that all their body parts are close together and abdomen placed over her thighs. Both feet and ankles sticking out to the right. Lower portion of back touching the ground.
6. During Jalsa and Qaida (sitting between Sajdah and during Qayam) men sit on their left ankle and their right foot’s fingers are twisted while women sit on floor and their both ankles and feet sticking out towards right hand side.
Allah says in the Quran:
“And stay in your houses, and do not display yourselves like that of the times of ignorance, and perform Salāh, and give Zakah, and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah wishes only to remove uncleanness from you, Oh people of the House, and to purify you with a thorough purification.” (Surah Ahzaab 33:33)
Abdullah ibn Umar (may Allah be well pleased with him) narrates that the Holy Prophet said, 'When a woman sits in Sajdah by putting one thigh upon the other (i.e. close to one another) and at the time of Sajdah (prostration) her stomach touches her thighs and she also takes full consideration of Hijaab, then Allah Taãla looks at her and says to the angels, 'Bear witness that I have forgiven her.' (Baihaqi, Kanzul Ummaal)
Once the Holy Prophet saw two women offering Prayer and he said, 'When you (women) make Sajdah (prostrate) then let the limbs of your body touch one another and make them touch the ground.' Surely in this (prostration posture) women are not similar to men.' (Masaail Abu Dawood)
Wail ibn Hajar (may Allah be well pleased with him) said that the Holy Prophet taught him to offer Prayer and he said, 'O ibn Hajar! When you begin your Prayer then lift your hands up to your ears and show the women that they should lift up to their chests.' (At-Tabarani)
References
Purpose of Salah:
http://www.themeaningofislam.org/five_pillars/salahSalāh/purpose.html
How to perform Salah: - looks like copied from Wikipedia
www.wikipedia.com, http://www.islamicity.com/mosque/salat/salat9.htm, http://www.sunniforum.com/forum/showthread.php?39550-How-to-perform-salah-correctly, http://islam1.org/how_to_pray/salah.htm, http://www.sunnidawateislami.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=22&Itemid=72, http://www.muslims.studentorgs.umich.edu/downloads/prayer%20times/Meaning%20of%20the%20Prayers.pdf
Types of prayer:
(http://alquraan.net/namaz/types.htm m)
Salat-ul-witr
http://www.islamintro.8m.com/wajibwitr.htm
Taraweeh:
http://islamqa.info/en/ref/65572
http://islam.about.com/cs/ramadan/a/taraweeh.htm
http://www.haqislam.org/the-1400-year-history-of-taraweeh-salaah/
Tahajjud:
http://www.sunniforum.com/forum/showthread.php?13945-Witr-and-Tahajjud
Salāt-ul-Istisqa
http://www.salatenglish.at-tahreek.com/salatenglish/18.html
http://www.ymsite.com/books/fiqhussunnah/fus2_22.html
Salāt-ul-Kusuf / SalatSalāt-ul-Khusuf
http://www.thewaytotruth.org/pillars/prayer2.html#specific
Overall:
www.wikipedia.com
Mode of Prayer (Salāh) For Women-
http://www.alahazrat.net/islam/the-mode-of-prayer-(salaat)-for-women.phphttp://www.alahazrat.net/islam/the-mode-of-prayer-(salaat)-for-women.php
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