Prohibited timings for As Salat

The foundation of every religion is based on worship. Many worship idols in the shape of man made statues or even animals and celestial objects. While the followers of Divine religions worship their Creator, though soem add associates ro the one and only Creator called God, and Allah by Muslims. the form of worship has many forms like going to the synagogues, churches or majids (in case of Muslims). 

In Islam, however, the worship is not restriccted to masjids only. One can worship, callled As Salat in Islam, anywhere, though offering As Salat in a masjid is much preferred. Unlike other religions where worship is restriced to a particualr day of the week, Muslims are directed to offer As Salat five times a day strting from pre-dawn prayer to the night prayer. 

However, the timings of these five daily prayers / As Salat as explicitly laid down so that a beleiver remembers his Creator throughout the day even when one is busy in one's daily chores. The prescribed timings of the daily prayers (as-Ṣalāt) are an essential part of Islamic worship and carry deep spiritual, psychological, and social wisdom. These timings are divinely ordained in the Qur’an and Sunnah, and serve to connect a Muslim to Allah consistently throughout the day.

Narrated by Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri:

I heard Allah's Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم saying, "There is no prayer after the morning prayer till the sun rises, and there is no prayer after the `Asr prayer till the sun sets."

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الْعَزِيزِ بْنُ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا إِبْرَاهِيمُ بْنُ سَعْدٍ، عَنْ صَالِحٍ، عَنِ ابْنِ شِهَابٍ، قَالَ أَخْبَرَنِي عَطَاءُ بْنُ يَزِيدَ الْجُنْدَعِيُّ، أَنَّهُ سَمِعَ أَبَا سَعِيدٍ الْخُدْرِيَّ، يَقُولُ سَمِعْتُ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم يَقُولُ ‏ "‏ لاَ صَلاَةَ بَعْدَ الصُّبْحِ حَتَّى تَرْتَفِعَ الشَّمْسُ، وَلاَ صَلاَةَ بَعْدَ الْعَصْرِ حَتَّى تَغِيبَ الشَّمْسُ ‏"‏‏.‏

This instruction reflects a principle in Islamic worship related to timing and purpose of prayer. Here's why the Prophet (PBUH) gave this guidance:

1. To Avoid Resemblance to Sun Worship

In pre-Islamic times, and in some other religions, people used to worship the sun—especially at sunrise and sunset. Islam strongly emphasizes pure monotheism (tawhid), and the Prophet (PBUH) wanted to block any action that could resemble pagan practices.

So, Islam discourages praying during:

• Sunrise
• Zenith (when the sun is at its highest)
• Sunset

These times were commonly used by sun-worshippers, so the prohibition is a precaution against imitation (tashabbuh).

2. To Preserve the Uniqueness of Prescribed Prayers

Fajr and ‘Asr are significant prayers:

• Fajr opens the day and is heavily emphasized in hadith.
• ‘Asr is called "the middle prayer" (Qur'an 2:238) and holds a special place.

Avoiding extra prayers immediately after them helps ensure that people respect and preserve the structure of the obligatory acts, rather than being excessive in places where restraint is better.

3. To Follow the Sunnah Strictly

The Prophet (PBUH) demonstrated clear patterns of worship and rest. He specifically avoided nafl (voluntary) prayers during these periods, and told companions to do the same.

This became part of the Sunnah of prayer timings, which Muslims follow out of obedience and love for his example.

4. To Avoid Confusion and Overburden

If people were allowed to pray nafl prayers at all times, they might:

• Confuse them with the obligatory prayers.
• Overburden themselves spiritually, leading to burnout or ritual fatigue.
• By setting boundaries, Islam balances discipline with devotion.

Exceptions:

• These time restrictions apply to non-obligatory prayers, but there are exceptions:
• Missed obligatory prayers (qada') can be made up anytime.
• Two rak‘ahs after tawaf, or prayer after entering a mosque (tahiyyat al-masjid), are also permitted.
• Sujood or prayer out of strong emotional need, like gratitude or seeking help, may also be allowed depending on circumstances.

Summary

The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم  prohibited prayer at certain times to:

• Avoid resemblance to sun worship.
• Protect the special place of Fajr and Asr.
• Teach moderation in worship.
• Maintain clarity in the prayer system.
• It's an example of divine wisdom in shaping a spiritually sound and focused community.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door.  

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may refer to our reference page: As Salat / Prayers for any Q&A you may have with regard to prayers.

Photo | Source of Hadith: Sahi Al Bokhari 586 |

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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What is Sajda Sahw (Prostration of forgetfulness) - Why, How and When it is performed

As Salat / prayer is one of the five obligatory pillars of Islam. Every adult male and female is commanded to offer as Salat five times a day. We have already shared a number of posts on the importance of As salat and how it is performed. The information in these posts are based on Al Qur'an and authentic Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Links to these posts are given in our reference pages mentioned at the end of this post.

Today, we share a very useful post of As Salat related to forgetfullness while performing As Salat. Since man is overwhelmed with the worldly affairs or even domestic propblesm, he is likely to forget much rakah / cycles of As Salat he has compeleted or may overshoot the recommended cycles. Or even one's mindset is distrubed by the Satan and thus committing a mistake which neccessiates offering a penalty to correct one's mistake due to forgetfullness, called Sajda Sahw or the Prostration of Forgetfullness.

We will try to explain why, how and when Sajda Sahw is performed very briefly. Thereafter we are sharing a informative video which explains it all.

What is Sajda Sahw?

Sajda Sahw (Prostration of Forgetfulness) is a corrective action in Islamic prayer (Salat) performed when a mistake is made during the prayer. It helps to compensate for errors such as forgetting certain parts of the prayer, adding extra actions, or making mistakes in the sequence.

Why Sajda Sahw is important: It acts as a way of compensating for human mistakes during the prayer, ensuring that the prayer is valid.

When is Sajda Sahw performed?

Sajda Sahw is performed in the following situations:

• Addition: If you add something extra to the prayer unintentionally, like an extra rak’ah (unit) or extra prostration.
• Omission: If you forget a required action, such as a rak’ah, a sujood (prostration), or a recitation.
• Doubt: If you doubt whether you’ve performed a certain action correctly or not, but you're not sure whether it was right or wrong.
• Mistake in the order of actions: If there’s an error in the sequence of the prayer (e.g., performing a sujood before ruku' (bowing), or forgetting a necessary component like tashahhud).

How is Sajda Sahw performed?

Sajda Sahw involves two additional prostrations at the end of the prayer. Here's the process:

• Complete your prayer as usual — Perform all the regular actions of your Salat, including the final tashahhud (testification) before completing your prayer.
• Make the last tashahhud and then say “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah” (the salaam) to end the prayer as you normally would. However, instead of ending the prayer after saying the last tashahhud, you make two additional prostrations for forgetfulness before concluding.
• Perform two extra prostrations:
• After the last tashahhud, before finishing the prayer, you say “Allahu Akbar” and perform two extra sajdas (prostrations) as a correction.
• In each of these prostrations, you do the usual actions (e.g., saying "Subhana Rabbiyal A’la" while in sujood).
• Conclude with salam: After the two prostrations of forgetfulness, you conclude your prayer by saying the final “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah” (as usual).

Specific Examples of when and how to perform Sajda Sahw mentioned in Authentic Hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

• If we forget any part of Rakaat or a whole Rakaat during Prayer/Salat:
• Narrated by Abdullah bin Buhaina Al-Asdi (RA): “Allah's Messenger (S.A.W.) stood up for the Zuhr prayer and he should have sat (after the second rak`a but he stood up for the third rak`a without sitting for Tashah-hud) and when he finished the prayer he performed two prostrations and said Takbir on each prostration while sitting, before ending (the prayer) with Taslim; and the people too performed the two prostrations with him instead of the sitting he forgot.” (Sahih Bukhari: 1230)
• This hadith tells us that if we forget to pray At-Tahhiyat in second Rakaat of any prayer consisting of more than two Rakaat (i.e. Zuhr, Asr, Maghrib or Isha), we should do Sujood Sahw in last Rakaat before finishing the prayer with Taslim.
• On similar lines, if someone forgets a whole Rakaat or more than a Rakaat, then again Sujood Sahw has to be performed. 
• Refer to hadith: Abu Hurairah (R.A.) reported; The Prophet (S.A.W.) offered the noon prayer and he gave the salutation at the end of two rakahs. He was asked. Has the prayer been shortened? then he offered two rakahs of the prayer and made two prostrations (at the end of it). (Abu Dawud: 1014

NOTE: In other similar narrations it is mentioned that he performed prostrations after Taslim.

• If we pray additional Rakaat in Salat:
• Narrated Abdullah (RA): Once Allah's Messenger (S.A.W.) offered five rak`at in the Zuhr prayer, and somebody asked him whether there was some increase in the prayer. Allah's Messenger (S.A.W.) said, "What is that?" He said, "You have offered five rak`at." So Allah's Messenger (S.A.W.) performed two prostrations of Sahu after Taslim. (Sahih Bukhari: 1226)
• This narration tells us that the Prophet (S.A.W.) performed Sujood Sahw in this case after Taslim. The reason is simple, by the time he came to know that he has prayed additional Rakaat, he had completed his prayer. So he performed Sujood Sahw as soon as he came to know about his forgetfulness.
• What to do when in doubt about how many Rakaat we have prayed while in Salat?
• Forgetfulness is a normal thing which can happen with any human being. Shaitan/Satan/Devil leaves no stone unturned to keep our attentions diverted and distracted from good deeds. This is also one of those efforts of Devil/Shaitan and a Muslim is supposed to be well versed with the technique of combating these tactics of Devil/Shaitan.
• If during a prayer any of us forgets which number of Rakaat is he/she is praying (or how many Rakaat he/she has completed by that time), then he/she is supposed to act according to following advice from our beloved Prophet (S.A.W.):
• It was narrated from Abu Saeed Al-Khudri (R.A.) that: ‘The Prophet (S.A.W.) said: "If one of you does not know whether he prayed three or four (rak'ahs), let him pray a rak'ah then prostrate twice after that when he is sitting. Then if he prayed five (rak'ahs), they (the two prostrations) will make his prayer even-numbered, and if he had prayed four, they will annoy and humiliate the shaitan.”’ (An-Nasai: 1239)
• Therefore, in case of doubt, one should act upon whatever is certain. For example, if one is not sure how many Rakaat he/she has performed, two or three and four or five, he/she should take the lesser number as the basis. Based on the number, he/she should proceed to perform the remaining Rakaat and complete the prayer by performing two prostrations (of Sahw).
• Sujood Sahw is to be done before Taslim or after Taslim?
• After going through all the narrations mentioned above, we come across two scenarios: in one case we come to know that Messenger of Allah (S.A.W.) performed two prostrations before Taslim, while in other case he performed two prostrations after Taslim. Although, I see no point of confusion, still different views prevail about whether one should perform Sujood Sahw before or after Taslim?
• Imam Shafi’s view is that the prostrations should be performed before Taslim. However, this view cannot be made universal as there are narrations which prove that the Prophet (S.A.W.) performed it after Taslim as well.
• According to Imam Ahmad, whatever is reported from the Prophet (S.A.W.) about the prostrations for As-Sahw, is to be acted upon. It can be before Taslim or after Taslim, depending upon the cases as done by our beloved Prophet (S.A.W.). In cases where it is reported that the Prophet (S.A.W.) performed Sujood Sahw before Taslim, we should follow that way. For cases where it is reported that the Prophet (S.A.W.) performed Sujood Sahw after Taslim, we have to follow that way. In cases where nothing is reported about, then two prostrations should be followed before Taslim.
• Sujood Sahw is accompanied by Takbir: If we revert back to the Hadith mentioned above, we see that there is mention of Takbir (saying Allah-o-Akbar). Therefore, Takbir is to be said before performing Sujood Sahw.
• Tashahhud is not recited after performing Sujood Sahw: Narrated Salama bin Alqama (R.A.): ‘I asked Muhammad (bin Seereen) whether Tashah-hud should be recited after the two prostrations of Sahu. He replied, "It is not (mentioned) in Abu Huraira's narration."’ (Sahih Bukhari: 1228)
• Sujood Sahw should be performed for Nawafil prayers also.
• Imam Al-Bukhari has said in his Sahih Bukhari “Bab al-Sahw fi’l-fard wa’l-tatawwu’ [Chapter on forgetfulness in obligatory and voluntary (prayers)]. Ibn Abbas (R.A.) did two prostrations after Witr, and al-Haafiz said in al-Fath, commenting on the report of Ibn Abbas: this was narrated by Ibn Abi Shaybah with a saheeh isnaad.
• In the light is above mentioned Hadith, it is clear that Sujood Sahw should be performed if we commit an error during Nawafil prayers too.
• How many prostrations are to be performed for forgetfulness?  Number of prostrations for forgetfulness are two. Some schools of thoughts state that only one prostration is done for forgetfulness. However, almost all the narrations regarding the Prophet’s (S.A.W.) action in this context refers to two prostrations (refer to all narrations mentioned in this discussion). Hence, two prostrations are to be performed.
• It is wrong to say that Sujood Sahw cannot be performed if the person has talked after Salat. Some schools of thoughts are of the view that Sujood Sahw can be performed only till we have not talked after Salat. This is not correct, as several of the narrations mentioned above (first two cases) tell us that Rasool-Allah (S.A.W.) was reminded by others of his forgetfulness after he had completed his Salat and he talked to the persons who reminded him, confirmed his forgetfulness and then performed Sujood Sahw. Therefore, one is allowed to perform prostrations of forgetfulness even if he/she has talked after Salat.

To sum up, it should suffice to say that to err is human. Therefore, it is natural that one may make mistakes; it can happen during Salat too. However, as discussed above, a Muslim should be well versed about how to amend his/her mistake during a prayer so as not to let the prayer be affected. We have discussed the actions of our beloved Prophet (S.A.W.) which all of are supposed to follow.

• Remember, Sujood Sahw compensates for minor mistakes / errors / forgetfulness, like those mentioned in different narrations above. Bigger mistakes (like not reciting Surah Fatiha, or starting pray without Ablution (Wudu) etc.) should not be (or rather cannot be) compensated by Sujood Sahw.
• Also, more than one error during a prayer does not require additional prostrations. One set of prostrations for forgetfulness is enough.
• So, next time, when anyone of us commit any mistake (among those mentioned above), then he/she should not worry. Rather remember the procedure(s) for Sujood Sahw for each case and be assured.

Summing up Types of mistakes and when to do Sajda Sahw:

Adding extra actions (e.g., an extra rak’ah): Perform Sajda Sahw after the final tashahhud before saying salam.

• Forgetting a required action (e.g., forgetting to recite a certain portion of the prayer): Perform Sajda Sahw after the final tashahhud before saying salam.
• Doubt in prayer (e.g., unsure if you've performed 2 or 3 rak'ahs): Perform Sajda Sahw at the end of the prayer (before salam).

Sajda Sahw is a way to ensure that your prayer remains valid despite mistakes, and it’s part of the mercy and flexibility of Islamic prayer.

You may like tolsiten to eminent Muslim scholar, Sheikh Assim bin Luqman Al Hakeem, explaining the mecchanics of performing Sajda Sahw:

About Sheikh Assim bin Luqman Al Hakeem: Assim bin Luqman al-Hakeem (Arabic: عاصم بن لقمان الحكيم; born 23 November 1962) is a Saudi Arabian cleric of Indonesian descent. He is based primarily in the city of Jeddah, where he hosts programs dealing with Islam. Al-Hakeem mostly talks in English, and he is also known for his witty sarcasm and humorous approach to questions. He mostly preaches in English, delivering Islamic programs on social media channels, including Questions and Answers (ASK HUDA), Umdatul Ahkaam, Youth Talk, and Mercy to the Worlds. He also preaches on television and radio channels, such as Huda TV, Zad TV, Peace TV, Iqraa, and Saudi 2.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door.  

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may refer to our following reference pages for any Q&A you may have with regard to prayers: 

• As Salat / Prayers 
• Hadiths: Specific Subject - As Salat

Photo | More References: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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10 most commonly mistakes committed while performing Wudu / Ablution

As Salat / Prayer is mandatory and obligatory for every adult and healthy Muslim man and woman five times a day. It is the time when one stands in front of one's Creator seeking His mercy and forgiveness. This being such an ipirtant daily ritueal requires a worshipper to be wearing clean / unsoiled clothes (specially the stains of urine or any dirt one may pick on his clothes). Having ensured cleanliness of one's clothes, one has to perform Wudu / ablutuon by washing one's face, arms up to the albow, passing over wet hands over one's head and washing feet including ankles. 

This procedure of Wudu / ablution is mentioned in Qur'an as under:

“O you who have believed, when you rise to [perform] prayer, wash your faces and your forearms to the elbows and wipe over your heads and wash your feet to the ankles…” — Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:6)

The ablution this allows removal of any traces of dirt from one's visible body parts so that when one stands in front of his Creaotor, he is not only wearing clean clothes but as also washed his visible body parts as directed by Allah. Thus, Wudu is a pre-requisite for prayer, and obedience to Allah is central to Islamic life.

Wudu isn’t just physical — it is a spiritual act of cleansing. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“When a Muslim or a believer washes his face (in wudu), every sin which he committed with his eyes will be washed away… when he washes his hands, every sin they committed is washed away… until he comes out pure from sins.” — Sahih Muslim 244

This shows that wudu is a form of minor expiation for sins tied to our body parts. It also:

• Removes sweat, dust, and impurities
• Encourages hygiene multiple times daily
• Prevents disease and promotes overall health - not only for self, but also being in a state of purity when one offers prayer in the masjid standing close in t=ranks with others.

However, it is generally seen that people hurry up performing Wudu which may leave parts of their washable body parts, which may invalidate one's salat / prayer. Herein under, we share an informative video which lists down 10 commonly commited mistakes while performing wudu and one must pay attention to these mistakes so that their whole process of offering prayer is not invaidated:

Let us make sure that we take time in performing wudu for we have to present ourselves before our Lord and we would not like that our presence is nullified due to our hurried performance of wudeu.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door.  

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may refer to our reference page: As Salat / Prayers for any Q&A you may have with regard to prayers.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

What is Salat al Witr and offering of Qunut during Witr

Muslims observe five obligatory prayers / salat every  morning from pre dawn to late evening. These have to be performed for they have been commanded so by Allah in Qur'an. If they do, they will be rewarded for observing the Divine Directive. But if they don't, they will be penalized for disobeying their Creator.

However, there is one salat / prayer which is voluntary and observed late at night just sometime before the pre dawn prayer, the Fajr. This prayer is called Tahajjud or Qiyam al Lail. This is a voluntary prayer, yet it carries immense rewards for those who observe it and Allah promises that He is so near to them when they break their night sleep and get up only for the pleasure of their Lord. 

This form of prayer was obligatory for Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, but those believers who observe it voluntarily are equally blessed. The last part of the Tahajjud prayer is Salat al Witr. This salat can be performed in odd cycles in one go, may be 5, 3 or even one. The hallmark of Salt al Witr is Qunut (القنوت) which is a special supplication (du‘a) that is recited during the final rak‘ah of Witr.

Let us know what is Qunut with regard to the Salat al Witr and what is to be prayed during the final rak'ah. But first let us refresh ourselves about the Salat al Witr.

The Witr prayer holds a special place in Islam—it is considered one of the most beloved voluntary (Sunnah Mu'akkadah) prayers and was strongly emphasized by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. It’s not obligatory like the five daily prayers, but it’s so highly recommended for it carries immense rewards. Let us know more about it:

What is Witr Prayer?

"Witr" literally means "odd", referring to the number of rak‘ahs (units)—usually prayed as 1, 3, 5, etc. It is ideally prayed after Tahajjud, if you wake for night prayer. But those who think they cannot get up for the Tahajjud prayer, then it is prayed after the ‘Isha (night) prayer.

Importance of Witr in Islam:

• A Sunnah the Prophet Never Left
• The Prophet ﷺ was consistent in praying Witr—even while traveling, which shows its significance.
• "The Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to pray Witr with three rak'ahs." (Sahih Muslim, 737)
• A Form of Night Protection
• The Prophet ﷺ described it as a form of spiritual shield: "Make Witr your last prayer at night." (Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim)
• It serves as a spiritual closing to your day, asking for forgiveness, mercy, and protection from Allah.
• Includes Du‘a al-Qunut: As we discussed earlier, Witr is the only prayer that consistently includes Qunut, a powerful supplication that brings a deeply spiritual moment to the night prayer.
• Brings You Closer to Allah
• Witr is part of Qiyam al-Layl (night prayer), which the Qur’an praises: "And during the night, wake up for prayer—an extra offering for you. It may be that your Lord will raise you to a praised station." Surah Al-Isra (17:79)
• Night prayers, especially Witr, are a mark of the righteous, as mentioned in: "They used to sleep little by night, and in the hours before dawn they would seek forgiveness." Surah Adh-Dhariyat (51:17–18)
• A Reminder of Allah’s Oneness: Even the number—being odd—reminds us of Tawheed (the oneness of Allah). The Prophet ﷺ said: "Allah is One (Witr) and loves Witr, so perform Witr, O people of the Qur’an!" (Tirmidhi, 453 – Hasan Sahih)

Having known what is Tahajjud prayer and Salat al Witr, now let us share a Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ which educates us as what is Qunut prayer which is prayed in the final rak'ah of the Salat al Witr. 

The Qunut is mentioned in a Hadith noted in Sunan Abi Dawud (Book # 8  Prayer (Kitab Al-Salat): Detailed Injunctions about Witr / كتاب  الوتر / Chapter # 491 The Qunut During Witr / باب  الْقُنُوتِ فِي الْوِتْرِ as Hadith number # 1425, quoted herein under:

Narrated Al-Hasan ibn Ali:

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) taught me some words that I say during the witr. (The version of Ibn Jawwas has: I say them in the supplication of the witr.) They were: "O Allah, guide me among those Thou hast guided, grant me security among those Thou hast granted security, take me into Thy charge among those Thou hast taken into Thy charge, bless me in what Thou hast given, guard me from the evil of what Thou hast decreed, for Thou dost decree, and nothing is decreed for Thee. He whom Thou befriendest is not humbled. Blessed and Exalted art Thou, our Lord."

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا قُتَيْبَةُ بْنُ سَعِيدٍ، وَأَحْمَدُ بْنُ جَوَّاسٍ الْحَنَفِيُّ، قَالاَ حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو الأَحْوَصِ، عَنْ أَبِي إِسْحَاقَ، عَنْ بُرَيْدِ بْنِ أَبِي مَرْيَمَ، عَنْ أَبِي الْحَوْرَاءِ، قَالَ قَالَ الْحَسَنُ بْنُ عَلِيٍّ رضى الله عنهما عَلَّمَنِي رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم كَلِمَاتٍ أَقُولُهُنَّ فِي الْوِتْرِ قَالَ ابْنُ جَوَّاسٍ فِي قُنُوتِ الْوِتْرِ ‏ "‏ اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنِي فِيمَنْ هَدَيْتَ وَعَافِنِي فِيمَنْ عَافَيْتَ وَتَوَلَّنِي فِيمَنْ تَوَلَّيْتَ وَبَارِكْ لِي فِيمَا أَعْطَيْتَ وَقِنِي شَرَّ مَا قَضَيْتَ إِنَّكَ تَقْضِي وَلاَ يُقْضَى عَلَيْكَ وَإِنَّهُ لاَ يَذِلُّ مَنْ وَالَيْتَ وَلاَ يَعِزُّ مَنْ عَادَيْتَ تَبَارَكْتَ رَبَّنَا وَتَعَالَيْتَ ‏"‏ ‏

Grade: Sahih (Al-Albani)

Qunut (القنوت) in the context of the Witr prayer refers to a special supplication (du‘a) that is recited during the final rak‘ah of Witr.

Meaning of Qunut:

The word "Qunoot" in Arabic linguistically means obedience, humility, or devotion, especially shown during standing in prayer. In Islamic worship, it refers to a specific, formal supplication made during salah, particularly at times of need or regularly in certain prayers like Witr.

Qunut in Witr Prayer:

• When is it recited? 
• In the last rak‘ah of Witr prayer—usually after ruku‘ (according to the Hanafi and many other scholars). However, some recite it before ruku‘ (like in the Shafi‘i school). Both are acceptable.
• Dua Qunut is recited on the last unit of prayer (raka’at), after the I’tidal, while still standing, and before proceeding to the Sujud position. It is recommended to raise both hands upon reciting the Dua Qunut.
• "I'tidal" can refer to a few different things, but it most commonly refers to a specific prayer position in Islam. It's also an Arabic name that means "temperance" or "balance". In the context of prayer, "i'tidal" is the act of standing upright after bowing (ruku') and before kneeling (sujud). It's considered a fundamental part of the prayer ritual. 
• What is recited? There are a few authentic versions, but a common one is this du‘a narrated from Hasan ibn Ali (RA):
  

اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنِي فِيمَنْ هَدَيْتَ، وَعَافِنِي فِيمَنْ عَافَيْتَ، وَتَوَلَّنِي فِيمَنْ تَوَلَّيْتَ، وَبَارِكْ لِي فِيمَا أَعْطَيْتَ، وَقِنِي شَرَّ مَا قَضَيْتَ، فَإِنَّكَ تَقْضِي وَلَا يُقْضَى عَلَيْكَ، وَإِنَّهُ لَا يَذِلُّ مَنْ وَالَيْتَ، تَبَارَكْتَ رَبَّنَا وَتَعَالَيْتَ

Translation:

“O Allah, guide me among those You have guided, grant me security among those You have granted security, take me into Your charge among those You have taken into Your charge, bless me in what You have given, and protect me from the evil You have decreed. For You decree, and none can pass decree upon You. And he whom You protect is never humiliated. Blessed are You, our Lord, and Exalted.”

Purpose of Qunut in Witr:

• To seek guidance, protection, and blessings from Allah.
• To express humility and devotion during a critical moment of prayer.
• To build spiritual focus and a sense of closeness to Allah, especially at night.

Summary: Qunoot is a du‘a said during the Witr prayer, usually in the final rak‘ah.

• It reflects humility, submission, and sincere appeal to Allah.
• It's an established Sunnah—especially in Ramadan and Witr throughout the year.
• There are differences in when and how often it’s practiced, depending on the school of thought.

You may now like to watch a very informative video on Qunoot by Sheikh Assim Al Hakeem. In this video, Sheikh Assim Al Hakeem delves into the significance and rulings of Dua Qunoot in Witr prayer.  Discover the most authentic supplications, their proper recitation, and the scholarly perspectives on their practice.  This video serves as a comprehensive guide for those seeking to enhance their understanding and implementation of Qunoot in their nightly prayers.

Note: We have here only shared the basics regarding the Witr prayer and the Qunut. Those wanting to know more may consult the references given below.

| Source of Supplication | Resource References: | 1 | 2 |

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our exclusive reference page Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about As Salat for more Sunnah and Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad exclusive to As Salat.

Please refer to our reference page: Supplications attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for more prophetic Supplications attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

Please refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet ﷺ of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

Photo 

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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The Magic of Adhan at St Pancras Church, London that spellbound the audience

Music is one of the most fascinating form of art that soothes hearts and mind. It is for this very reason, most of the religions use music to sing rhymes to stir the body and mind of the worshippers. But imagine the magic and impact of Adhan, the Muslims' call of prayer, without the sound of any musical, has on those listening to it. It obviously attracts the Muslims, but also has a deep impact on the hearts and minds of the non Muslims who hardly know what is being said as Adhan is in Arabic, yet they can feel something Divine creeping into their minds.

There are many a video on social media showing immense emotions of the non Muslims when listening to Adhan. Some have even tears rolling from their eyes for the Adhan strikes softly at the hearts and really stirs it.

Today, we share the magic of Adhan which was called at St Pancras Church, London sometime back in 2018. The audience just had listened to a musical score played by a superb orchestra. Then came Hassen Rasool, who was specially invited to present the call of Adhan in a bid to develop inter faith harmony.  His fascinating voice spellbound the audience in a pin drop silenced church hall. 

Reacting to the Adhan by Hassen Rasool, one of the atheists responded on his YouTube page: I'm an atheist, but his voice was filled with so much love and inspiration that it made me understand more what believing in a god would feel like. Nothing but respect for this amazing man and his hypnotic voice! While another responder: I am a Christian believer, but I really like to hear your prayer. When I hear it it's really feel me like that I should surrender myself to God and I feels very connected to God.

Hassen Rasool is nationally acclaimed for his Call To Prayer televised on Channel 4. Also performed LIVE at venues such as the prestigious Royal Albert Hall, Shakespeare's Globe, V&A Museum, Eton College, Trafalgar Square, The House of Lords, House of Commons, Lords Cricket Ground and The Supreme Court to name but a few. While he is most popularly known for his emotive and powerful recitations of the majestic Arabic Quran, he is also an accomplished in a broad range of creative disciplines ranging from painting, sculpture, photography, theatrical performances to name but a few. (About Hassan Rasool)

Watch the soul searching and amazing Adhan by Hassen Rasool which he performed at  St Pancras Church, London. And then listen to the comments of those who listened to the Adhan and how they expressed their views:

Author's Note: The data above has been collected from the references as given below. If any one differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎)  help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

What are the prohibited timings for offering Obligatory and Voluntary prayers / As Salat

Man has been worshipping visible objects since time immemorial. These visible objects may take the shape of man made idols or celestial objects like the sun, moon or even the fire. But in Islam, and also like all Divine religions, the believers worship the unseen God, Who resembles like no other and is hidden from our eyes. Muslims, therefore, worship Allah, the One True God, five times a day with the belief that they are being watched and listened to by Allah.

However, the mode and timings of worship of Muslims differ from all others, even the people of the Book. And there is a reason for that. In Islam, there are specific times during the day when it is prohibited to perform Salat (prayer). These times are based on the movements of the sun and are avoided to prevent any resemblance to sun worship, which was a common practice in pre-Islamic times. Here are the three main times when Salat should not be offered.

The prohibition of offering Salat (prayer) during certain times of the day is rooted in both the Hadith (the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad) and, to some extent, can be inferred from the Quran. Here's an explanation of these timings and their basis in Islamic teachings:

Obligatory Prayers

Times when Obligatory prayers / Salat cannot be offered (in the light of Hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):

• When the Sun is Rising:
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Do not pray at the time of the rising of the sun or at the time of its setting."
• Reason: This time is avoided because it resembles the times when sun worshipers would worship the sun, thus preventing any similarity with their practices.
• When the Sun is at its Zenith (Midday):
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The sun rises between the two horns of Satan, and when it is at its zenith, Satan is present."
• Reason: This is a brief period when the sun is at its highest point in the sky before it begins to decline. Praying at this time is prohibited to distinguish Islamic practices from those of sun worshipers.
• When the Sun is Setting: 
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Do not pray at the time of the rising of the sun or at the time of its setting."
• Reason: This time is also avoided for the same reason as sunrise, to prevent any resemblance to sun worship.

Let us share the complete Hadith as mentioned in Sahi Muslim 612, wherein 'Abdullah b. 'Amr b. al-'As is quoted to have reported::

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was asked about the times of prayers. He said: The time for the morning prayer (lasts) as long as the first visible part of the rising sun does not appear and the time of the noon prayer is when the sun declines from the zenith and there is not a time for the afternoon prayer and the time for the afternoon prayer is so long as the sun does not become pale and its first visible part does not set, and the time for the evening prayer is that when the sun disappears and (it lasts) till the twilight is no more and the time for the night prayer is up to the midnight.

Arabic Text:

وَحَدَّثَنِي أَحْمَدُ بْنُ يُوسُفَ الأَزْدِيُّ، حَدَّثَنَا عُمَرُ بْنُ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ رَزِينٍ، حَدَّثَنَا إِبْرَاهِيمُ، - يَعْنِي ابْنَ طَهْمَانَ - عَنِ الْحَجَّاجِ، - وَهُوَ ابْنُ حَجَّاجٍ - عَنْ قَتَادَةَ، عَنْ أَبِي أَيُّوبَ، عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ عَمْرِو بْنِ الْعَاصِ، أَنَّهُ قَالَ سُئِلَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم عَنْ وَقْتِ الصَّلَوَاتِ فَقَالَ ‏ "‏ وَقْتُ صَلاَةِ الْفَجْرِ مَا لَمْ يَطْلُعْ قَرْنُ الشَّمْسِ الأَوَّلُ وَوَقْتُ صَلاَةِ الظُّهْرِ إِذَا زَالَتِ الشَّمْسُ عَنْ بَطْنِ السَّمَاءِ مَا لَمْ يَحْضُرِ الْعَصْرُ وَوَقْتُ صَلاَةِ الْعَصْرِ مَا لَمْ تَصْفَرَّ الشَّمْسُ وَيَسْقُطْ قَرْنُهَا الأَوَّلُ وَوَقْتُ صَلاَةِ الْمَغْرِبِ إِذَا غَابَتِ الشَّمْسُ مَا لَمْ يَسْقُطِ الشَّفَقُ وَوَقْتُ صَلاَةِ الْعِشَاءِ إِلَى نِصْفِ اللَّيْلِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Additional Prohibited Times for Non-Obligatory Prayers:

• After the Fajr Prayer Until the Sun Rises:
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "There is no prayer after the Fajr prayer until the sun rises." (Sahih Bukhari 586, Sahih Muslim 612)
• Reason: To emphasize the importance of the obligatory Fajr prayer and to prevent any confusion with non-obligatory prayers.
• After the Asr Prayer Until the Sun Sets: 
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "There is no prayer after the Asr prayer until the sun sets." 
• Reason: To emphasize the importance of the obligatory Asr prayer and to prevent any confusion with non-obligatory prayers.

Inferences from the Quran:

While the Quran does not explicitly list these specific times, it provides general guidance about prayer times and emphasizes regularity and consistency in offering prayers. For instance, in Surah Al-Baqara (2:238), it mentions: "Guard strictly (five obligatory) As-Salat (the prayers) especially the middle Salat (i.e., the best prayer - 'Asr). And stand before Allah with obedience."

The specific prohibition of performing Salat during certain times is based primarily on the Hadith, reflecting the Prophet Muhammad's guidance to distinguish Islamic practices from those of sun worshipers and to maintain the sanctity of obligatory prayers. By adhering to these guidelines, Muslims ensure their prayers are offered in a manner that aligns with the prophetic traditions and avoids any association with non-Islamic practices.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Photo | Source of Hadith:  Sahi Muslim 612a

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about As Salat - Prayers for more on As Salat.

For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

Reference Page: As Salat - Prayers

After entering the religion of Islam, it is obligatory on ever adult Muslim man and woman every to offer five prayers a day to glorify the dignity of Allah. Prayer or as Salat is the second most important pillar of Islam after Shahada (testimony of faith). 

At a number of places in the Qur'an, Allah has commanded believers to offer prayers for it prayers directly connect a believer to Allah:

اِنَّنِىۡۤ اَنَا اللّٰهُ لَاۤ اِلٰهَ اِلَّاۤ اَنَا فَاعۡبُدۡنِىۡ ۙ وَاَقِمِ الصَّلٰوةَ لِذِكۡرِىۡ‏ 

"Verily I am Allah. There is no god beside Me. So, serve Me and establish Prayers to remember Me." (Surah 20 Ta Ha :14) 

This is the real object of Salat. It has been prescribed to remind people that they should not become neglectful of Allah by worldly diversions and that they should remember that man is not an unbridled free being but a servant of Allah. Salat has been prescribed five times a day to remind man of Allah’s presence.

The five prayers are offered before dawn, noon, midafternoon, just after sunset and then at night.

Once a man asked the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) about the most virtuous deed. The Prophet (peace be upon him) stated that the most virtuous deed is prayer. The man asked again and again. The first three times, the Prophet (peace be upon him) again answered, "The prayer," then on the fourth occasion he stated, "Jihad in the way of Allah." [This is from a hadith recorded by Ahmad and ibn Hibban. According to al-Albani, the hadith is Hasan. Muhammad Nasir al-Din al-Albani, Sahih al-Targheeb wa al-Tarheeb (Beirut: al-Maktab al-Islami, 1982), vol. 1, p. 150]

The importance of offering prayers can be gauged from one of the saying of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him):

"The first matter that the slave will be brought to account for on the Day of Judgment is the prayer. If it is sound, then the rest of his deeds will be sound. And if it is bad, then the rest of his deeds will be bad." [Recorded by al-Tabarani. According to al-Albani, it is sahih. Al-Albani, Sahih al-Jami, vol.1, p. 503.

In view of the importance of prayers in Islam, we have initiated a number of posts regarding prayers / As Salat to guide those who have recently come under the fold of Islam and this reference page gives out reference to all such posts so that anyone having any questions regarding prayers and its method of offering could be guided. Remember: If your feet do not lead you to prayers (As Salat), these would not lead you to Jannah (Paradise) EITHER!!

Herein under are the posts related to As Salat / Prayers in general, followed by posts specific to Ṣalāt al-Jumuʿah (The Friday Congregational Prayer):

General Information / Q&A

• Prayer / As Salat
• Obligatory and Voluntary prayer rakat / cycles
• How to perform ablution before offering salat 
• How to perform Dry Ablution (Tayammum)
• How to offer prayer
• What is Taraweeh Prayer (during the month of Ramadan)?
• Offering congregational Prayers at home
• What is Sajda Sahw (Prostration of forgetfulness) - Why, How and When it is performed
• 10 benefits of Salat / Prayers
• How to develop Khushoo ( Humility / focused concentration ) when offering Salat
• How to make an amend to a mistake in Prayer / Salat
• Which three out of five daily prayers are more rewarding when offered in congregation (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī : Hadith 615) 
• Etiquette of joining a prayer - already in progress (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 908)
• When does a servant come nearest to his Lord (Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Hadith 482)
• Reward of Preserving the Prayer Times (Sunan Abi Dawud: Hadith 425)

Prohibitions

• Prohibited timings when As Salat is not to be performed

Adhan - The call for prayer

• Genesis of Adhan
• The Magic of Adhan at St Pancras Church, London that spellbound the audience
• The reward of calling prayers (Adhan) and attending prayers

Wudu / Ablution

• 10 most commonly mistakes committed while performing Wudu / Ablution

Salat ut Tahajjud

• What is Salat-ut-Tahajjud - The Night Prayer  (صلاة التهجد / قِيَامِ اللَّيْلِ) 
• The virtue of the Night Prayer (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 1145)
• Sleep Early to Wake up for Night Prayer (Tahajjad) (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 1146)
• How to offer Salat ut tahajjud

Ṣalāt al-Jumuʿah (The Friday Congregational Prayer)

• Why Friday (Youm ul Jumuʿah) assumes a special place in Islam
• Why Friday chosen for congregational prayer
• Importance of Ṣalāt al-Jumuʿah
• Reward for hurrying up for the Friday congregation
• Desirables before the Ṣalāt al-Jumuʿah
• What do we lose if we deliberately skip Ṣalāt al-Jumuʿah

You may also like to refer to our exclusive page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about As Salat - Prayers for knowing more about As Salat as attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

Please refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

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