Following the Sunnah- Righteous deeds

Necessary Conditions for the Righteous Deeds to be Accepted
I Seek refuge in Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD), from the Shaitan.
      Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)’s name I begin, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.
      All praise be to Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD), Lord of the worlds,
      Who has disposed all matters through His arrangements thereof?
      Who has fairly composed His creation and given it excellent form, good structure and proportion.
     And may blessings and salutation be invoked upon Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam), the bondsman of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD),
May Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) make us all from those whose deeds are done in accordance with the Sunnah, deeds that are done sincerely for the sake of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)?

The Prophet (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) said: “Abu Dharr R.A., with the passing of days and nights, your age decreases and your deeds are recorded.
Death comes suddenly. One who sows good will soon harvest good, and one who sows evil will soon harvest regret.
In fact, each sower will gain that which he sows.”

 Righteous deeds" (amelunsalihan):
The righteous deeds (amelunsalihan) include every thing that Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) loves and accepts from sayings and the physical acts;
The hidden (acts by heart) and the openly (acts by limbs).man’s whims prompt him, in nature, towards gaining earnings and tangible pleasures as well as the affairs that preclude him from acting righteous deeds and readying for the life to come,
Many texts from the Quran and hadith have enjoined him to arrange for his life to come:

“Whoever has done an atom's weight of good, will see it and whoever has done an atom's weight of evil, will also see it (99-8).”

“All righteous-doers among the believing male or female will be granted a blessed happy life and will receive their due reward and more. (16:97)”

“Whoever commits evil deeds will be recompensed to the same degree.
The righteously striving believer, male or female, will enter Paradise wherein they will receive their sustenance without any account being kept (40:40).”

“One who acts righteously does so for his /she own benefit and one who commits evil does so against his/her own soul.
To your Lord you will all return (45:15).”

              "Love for Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) and His messenger (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam)”
The acts by heart include the love for Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) and His messenger,
 Fear of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD),
Asking Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) for forgiveness,
 Having sincerity to Him alone in deen,
Being patient, (May Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) give us the courage to be patient, indeed is the best of deeds but also very difficult).
Thanking Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) for His blessings,
 Accepting Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) His judgment,
Depending on Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD),
Hoping for Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)'s mercy,
 Fear of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)'s punishment,
And all things of this nature are the righteousness."

The acts by limbs include saying "La Illaha Illallaah Muhammadan Rasulullah",
, prayers, Zakat, fasting, hajj,
Following the Sunnah
Lots of Durood, salawat sent to Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) and Istighfar and continuing to remain hopeful and continue to make Halaal earnings,
Eat Halaal and work Halaal as well as fulfill all the rights of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) and then do dua.
InshaAllah Allah SWT always answers your dua in a way that is best for you!
Straight talk,
 Loyalty (returning someone’s possessions to them),
Kindness with parents, having good accord with relatives,
Keeping promises and treaties, enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil,
Jihad in the cause of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD),
 Learning, teaching Islam to others
Kindness with the neighbor,
With the orphan,
With the poor,
With the wayfarer,
With the animals,
Supplication,
Remembering Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) and reciting Qur’an."

What are the necessary conditions for the righteous deeds to be accepted?
Every righteous deed must meet two conditions to be accepted by Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD):
1. The first is sincerity. This is achieved when the righteous is for the sake of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) alone.
2. The second is following The Prophet (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam).
This is achieved when the righteous deeds are done exactly as prescribed by The Prophet (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam).
 If these two conditions are met, the righteous deed will be accepted by Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD).
 In this case, the doer of righteous deeds will deserve the reward in this life and in the Hereafter as promised by Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD).

"Each person's every joint must perform a charity -
On the authority of Abu Hurairah, who said: The messenger of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) said?
"Each person's every joint must perform a charity every day the sun comes up:
 To act justly between two people is a charity;
To help a man with his mount, lifting him onto it or hoisting up his belongings onto it is a charity:
A good word is a charity,
Every step you take to prayers is a charity
And removing a harmful thing from the road is a charity."... (Related by: - Bukhari and Muslim).

Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) said in Surat An-Nahl, (Verse 97), what can be translated as,
"Whoever works righteousness, whether male or female, while he (or she) is a true believer, verily?
To him We will give a good life (in this world) with respect, and We shall pay them certainly a reward in proportion to the best of what they used to do."

Ibn Kathir says: "In this great verse, there is a promise from Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) –
And He does not break his promise - for everyone, man or woman, who does a good deed and whose heart believes in Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) and His Messenger.
Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) promises to give good life for such a person in this life as a quick reward for the righteous deed.
 Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) also promises to give more rewards to this person in the Hereafter.

The good life in this life as promised by Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) comprises all aspects of comfort including Halaal Rizq, self-satisfaction, Happiness and contentment.
The Prophet (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) says: "He Who submitted himself to Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD),
And is provided enough sustenance, and Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) made him content with what He gave him, he indeed succeeded." {Imams Ahmad}.
The Prophet (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) said:
“Allah does not deal unjustly with a believer about a good deed because he is given blessings for it in the Hereafter;
But the disbeliever is given in the world the reward for good deeds, he has performed and when he comes to the Hereafter,
There is no good deed for which he can be rewarded." {Imam Muslim}.

     What do you have for me, today?'
“When a servant is on his last day in this world and first step to the life to come,
His wealth, sons, and deeds are presented before him.
 As he turns to his wealth, he says, ‘I was very stingy and niggardly for you,
What do you have for me, today?'
His wealth will answer, 'Well, you can take from me only your coffin.'
 He then turns to his sons and says, 'I have loved you very much,
And I have protected you so excessively,
What do you have for me, today?’
His sons will answer, ‘Well, we will see you off to your grave to bury you there.
’ He then turns to his deeds and says, ‘By Allah, I have neglected you and you were so unwelcome for me, what do you have for me, today?’
His deed will answer, ‘Well, I am your companion in your grave and on the day of your resurrection until you, as well as I, will be stopped before your Lord (for interrogation).’

If that servant has acted righteously in this world and has been one of the disciples of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD),
 His deed will come to him in the form of a sweet-smelling handsome man and will say to him,
‘I bear to you the good tidings of enjoying rest, happiness, and the beautiful Paradise,
And you are coming to the best abode. When that servant asks about his personality, his good deed will answer,
‘I am your righteous deed, and I will move you from this world to the world to come.’”

One thing which might be useful in achieving heart's presence is -remembrance of death.
If a person thinks about death, and pays attention to the fact that neither timings nor the circumstances of death’s arrival are known,
 it may occur at any time any place, under any situation, even it is quite possible that this prayer might be the last one.
In that case he would not offer prayer with negligence.
 It is recommended that a prayer offerer should think about death before the prayer;
Should imagine that the moment of death has arrived;
The death angel Israel for receiving the soul has already arrived,
And it is only a limited time; say, an hour or few minutes have been left for him,
After which his deeds' register will be closed forever, and he will be transferred to Eternal World.
    Over there, his deeds will be scrutinized and the result would be both eternal prosperity and happy living near Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)’s favorites or adversity, Cruelty, punishment, and torture inside the Hell.
 By imagining and picturing dying one may better concentrate, may witness himself standing in front of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)-Almighty,
And thus may offer prayer with more humility and humbleness as his farewell prayer.
Before beginning prayer create such conditions for yourself and then prolong it during entire length of prayer.

“As soon as a dead is put in his grave, a person comes to him and says,
‘We were three; one was your sustenance who ceased when your age was ceased.
The other was your family who left you.
 The third was I; your deed, and I will stay with you. Nevertheless, I was the most disrespectful in your sight.”

The Prophet (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) has said:
“Worship Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)-Almighty as though you are actually seeing Him, and even if you do not see Him, He sees you."
Man's attention towards Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)-Almighty depends in proportion to his knowledge and enlightenment relative to Him.
If the faith has reached to the degree of certainty, has completely comprehended Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)'s Majesty,
Power, Presence, Dominion, and Knowledge, naturally will show humility and humbleness in front of him,
And there would be no room left for negligence and forgetfulness.
Some one, who sees Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)'s existence everywhere as his overseer, regards himself continuously before His presence,
While standing in prayer -a place of talking with Him, will never be negligent from His remembrance.

Wabasha bin Ma’bad, (Radiyallaahu anhu)., who said:
I came to the messenger of Allah and he said:
"You have come to ask about righteousness?”.
I said:" Yes." He said: "Consult your heart.
Righteousness is that about which the soul feels tranquil and the heart feels tranquil,
And wrongdoing is that which wavers in the soul and moves to and from in the breast even though people again and again have given you their legal opinion [in its favor]."
Ahmed bin Hanbal

 Righteous deeds" (amelunsalihan):
"Righteous deeds" (amelunsalihan) are one of the key concepts of the Qur'an.
 In Arabic, the word "righteousness" comprises the meanings of good, beneficial and right.
In Arabic, the verb "to amend"(islah) is also derived from the same root.
Consequently, in English, every type of beneficial and good work or action done for the good of religion is expressed by the word "Righteous deed." In terms of the Qur'an, on the other hand, each act and all behavior designed to seek the favour of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) is a "righteous deed".

The salvation of an individual is not attained only through faith; righteous deeds, the signs of sincere faith, also save the soul.
Saying "I believe" yet failing to comply with the commandments of religion does not lead man to salvation.
In the Qur’an Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) states the following about this issue:

Do men think that they will be left alone on saying, "We believe", and that they will not be tested?
We tested those before them, and Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) will certainly know those who are true from those who are false. (Al-Ankaboot, 2-3)

The way a believer does a righteous deed proves his mettle.
His deeds indicate his perseverance, stability, determination and loyalty-in other words the depth of his faith.

Nawas bin Sam’ an (radiyallaahu anhu) that the Prophet (Sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said:
Righteousness is in good character/morality, and wrong doing is that which wavers in your soul, and which you dislike people finding out about.
It was related by Muslim.

The guidance and coming out of the darkness of (Falsehood) into the light of (Truth).
Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) said in Surat Yunus, (Verse 9), what can be translated as,
"Verily, those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness, their Lord will guide them by their faith…"

And also Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) said in Surat At-Alaq, (Verse 11), what can be translated as,
"…that He may take out, those who believe and do righteous good deed from the darkness to the light…"

Love for them from Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)
 And in the hearts of the believers Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) said in Surat Maryam, (Verse 96), what can be translated as,
“Verily, those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness, the Most Beneficent will bestow love for them (in the hearts of the believers)."

And also Imams Bukhari and Muslim reported that,
The Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"If Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) love's a person, He calls Jibraeel (Gabriel) saying: Allah love so and so; O Jibraeel love him.
 Jibraeel would love him, and then Jibraeel would make an announcement among the resident of the heavens,
Allah loves so and so, therefore, you should love him also.
So, all the resident of the heavens would love him and he is granted the pleasure of the people of the earth."

Whipping away there bad deeds. Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) said in Surat Al-Ankaboot, (Verse 7), what can be translated as,
" Those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness, surly, We shall remit from them their evil deeds and shall reward them according to the best of that which they used to do."

Allah’s protection: In the Qudsi (Holy) Hadith, reported by Imams Bukhari and Muslim that, the prophet The Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) said:
My servant draws near to Me with supererogatory works so that I shall love him.
When I love him I am his hearing with which he sees, his hand with which he strikes and his foot with he walks…"
Narrated: - Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri (Radiyallaahu anhu). And Abu Huraira (Radiyallaahu anhu):
     The Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) said, "No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim,
Even if it were the prick he receives from a thorn, but that Allah expiates some of his sins for that."

A good deed has its sure reward, and that reward will be better than the merits of the doer.
An evil deed will not be punished with a severer penalty than justice demands.
On tope of that, sins and evil deeds may be forgiven by making repentance at the right time.

"Allah accepts the repentance of those who do evil in ignorance and repent soon afterwards; to them, Allah turns in mercy...” 4/17

“Of no effect is the repentance of those who continue to do evil until death faces one of them and he says:
"Now I repent". Nor of those who die rejecting Faith. For them We have prepared a most grievous punishment.4/18

Repentance from bad deeds and Kufr, when facing death, is no good.
That is too late. Those who miss the opportunity to repent will stand at the Day of Judgment before their Lord bending their heads saying:

"Our Lord: We have seen and we have heard. Let us go back to the world. We will work righteousness for now we do believe indeed". 32/12

For those, there is no going back; there is no return to this world.
There is no second chance for them to work righteousness.
They had their time. They had their opportunity.
They missed it. Now it is time to face the consequences of their deeds and action.
Now is the time to be paid for their evil and their sins.
Let us pray to Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD): To increase and strengthen our faith, Ameen!
To Guide us and help us to work righteous deeds acceptable and pleasing to Him so that we may gain His Mercy and Grace. Ameen!

Sayidina 'Umar ibn al-Khattab (Radiyallaahu anhu): Was heard weeping and saying:
'You are more to me than my father and mother, O Messenger of Allah!
There was once a palm tree stump on which you used to stand when you addressed the people.
But when the people grew in number, you adopted a pulpit to let them all hear you.
 The tree stump then mourned your separation, until you laid your hand upon it and it was reassured.
Still greater right has your Community to pine for you now you have parted from them.

'You are more to me than my father and mother,
O Messenger of Allah! So great is your merit in His sight that He has equated obedience to you with obedience to Himself:
 For He said, Great and Glorious is He: "Whoever obeys the Messenger, obeys Allah." (Al-Nisa', 4:80).

WA Khair ul Hadyi Hadyu Muhammad (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam).
And the best advice is the advice of The Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam).

Pray and do Dhikr in good times and tense times, and hold tight to the rope of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) at all times.
Try to give up some dunya and replace with Dhikr and Salat, InshaAllah it will help.
Alhamdullilah! Sabr is the secret door to Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)’s presence.
It is the code that tells Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) that we truly submit to His will, whatever it may be.
May Allah Subhanawataala grant us what is best in this world and the next!
Action speaks louder then words my friend’s practice Islam the way of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) did.
 May Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) help us to do that which He loves and which pleases Him?
May Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) make our efforts sincere and keep us all on the straight path...........
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P.S.: "Have fun praying don’t forget to make dua for me...

He bestows them as He wishes

      Prayer is judged based on action......
Prayer is judged based on action as this is what a person can control. Of course a person's mind should be focused on what they are doing especially when it is worship.

The position of all four madhaahib–Maalikis, Shadflies, Hannibal’s, and Hanafis–with no difference of opinion–is that a person who does not pray, ever, is not a Muslim.

However, Allah is the most Merciful and is fully aware that Shaitan will try and discourage you from praying and therefore he will use all types of distraction.

Every choice we make moves us closer to or farther away from something we love.
Complete acceptance of the teachings and guidance of God 'Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala  ' as revealed to His Messengers Muhammad sallallaahu-alaihi-wasallam) is the religion of Islam.

 Islam enjoins faith in the oneness and sovereignty of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD), which makes man aware of meaningfulness of the Universe and of his place in it.

This belief frees him from all fears and superstitions by making him conscious of the presence of the Almighty Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) and of man's obligations towards Him.

This faith must be expressed and tested in actions, faith alone is not enough. Belief in one Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) God requires that we look upon all Humanity as one family under the universal Omnipotence of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) the Creator and Nourishes of all. Islam rejects the idea of chosen people, making belief in Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) and good actions the only way to heaven.

Thus, a direct relationship in established with Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD), without any intercessor.

Belief in the Oneness of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) creates an attitude of peace and contentment, purges the mind of subtle passions and jealousy, envy and greed, and keeps away the ideas of resorting to base and unfair means for achieving success.

The believer understands that wealth is in Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) ’s hands, that honor, power, reputation and authority are  subjected to His Will, and that He bestows them as He wishes; and that man’s duty is only to endeavor and struggle fairly.

He knows that success and failure depend upon Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)’s grace; if He wills to give, no power in the world can prevent Him from doing so; and if He does not will it, no power can force Him but the believer never forgets that it is incumbent upon him to try his hardest to Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)’s grace. On the other hand, the polytheists and atheists consider success and failure to come solely from their own efforts or by the help of earthly powers without taking Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)’s grace and Will into consideration. Therefore they always remain slaves to cupidity and envy. To achieve success, they never hesitate to have recourse to bribery, flattery, conspiracy, and other kinds of base and unfair means.  

THE FUNDAMENTAL ARTICLES OF FAITH IN ISLAM

The true faithful Muslim believes in the following Principal articles of faith:-

    He believes in One God 'Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala ‘, Supreme and Eternal, Infinite and Mighty, Merciful and Compassionate, Creator and Provider.
   
He believes in all Messengers of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) without any discrimination among them.

Every known nation had a Warner or Messenger from Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD).

They were chosen by Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) to teach mankind and deliver His divine message. The Quran mentions the name of twenty five of them. Muhammad sallallaahu-alaihi-wasallam) stands as the last Messenger and the crowning glory of the foundation of Prophet Hood.
  
 Muslin believes in all scriptures and revelations of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD).

They were the guiding light which the Messengers received to show their respected peoples the Right Path of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD).

In the Quran a special reference is made to the books of Abraham (Alayhi Salaam), Moses, David and Jesus. (Alayhi Salaam).

 The true Muslim believes in the Angels of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD).

 They are purely spiritual and splendid beings whose nature requires on food, drink or sleep.

They spend their days and nights in the worship of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD).

    Muslim believes in the last Day of Judgment. This world will come to an end someday, and the dead will rise to stand for their final and fair trial. 

 People with good records will be generously, rewarded and warmly welcomed to the Heaven of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD), and those with bad records will be punished and cast into Hell.

    Muslim believes in the timeless knowledge of Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) and His power to plan and execute His planes and nothing could happen in His Kingdom against His will.

 His knowledge and power are in action at all times and command over His creation. He is wise and merciful, and whatever He does must have a meaningful purpose.

If this is established in our mind and hearts, we should accept with good faith all that He does, although we may fail to under stand it fully, or think it is bad.

THE FIVE PILLARS OF ISLAM

      There are five pillars of Islam:

      The declaration of faith:

     To bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD), and that Muhammad sallallaahu-alaihi-wasallam) is His Messenger to all human beings till the Day of Judgment.

     The Prophet Hood of Muhammad sallallaahu-alaihi-wasallam obliges the Muslims to follow, His exemplary life as a model. (SUNNA)
  
      Prayers: Daily, prayers are offered five times a day as a duty towards Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD).

     They strengthen and enliven the belief in Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) and inspire man to a higher morality.

They purify the heart and prevent temptation towards wrong - doings and evil.
   
Fasting in the month of Ramadan: The Muslims during the month of Ramadan not only abstain from food, drink and sexual intercourse from dawn to sunset but also sincerity and devotion.

 It develops a sound social conscience, patience, unselfishness and will - Power.
  
 Zakat: The literal and simple meaning of Zakat is purity.

The technical meaning of this word designates the annual amount in kind or coin which a Muslim with means must distribute among the rightful beneficiaries.

But the religious and spiritual significance of Zakat is much deeper and livelier. So it has humanitarian and sociopolitical values.

When it is not out of practice or out of use, it quickly loses its liveliness and motivation power

  (Remember the orphan’s look around where you live if there is one,” Do something for him or her

"They have no one but Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD)   who is testing those who are fit and have been lucky to have there mums and dads to care for them. 

Hajj (Pilgrimage to Makkah): It is to be performed once in a lifetime, if one can afford it financially and physically.

Faith by nature is very sensitive and can be most effective.

When it is not out of practice or out of use, it quickly loses its liveliness and motivation power

Ghufraanaka Rabbanaa WA ‘alaika masiyr

WA sallallaahu Ta’aala ‘alaa Sayidina WA Mawlana Muhammadin WA Alayhi WA Sahabihi wasallam

May Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) make our efforts sincere and keep us all on the straight path...........

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And earn Sawab-e-Jariya...May Allah Subhanahu WA Ta’aala (GOD) make it a source of Sawab-e-Jariya for u and me .Ameen
                 
P.S.: "Have fun praying don’t forget to make dua for me.

"The key to HEAVEN is SALAH.

Mu'adh ibn Jabal narrated that the Messenger of Allah ? said, "The uppermost level of the matter is Islam, its pillar is salah and the top of its hump is jihad." [Tirmidhi]

Salah, we are to understand, is the main pillar of Islam. If you can imagine a tent with five "pillars" or poles--four around the outside, at the corners, and one in the center. That center pole is the one which gives the tent its shape, and that is the salah in Islam. It is the very first obligation on a Muslim after the shahadah, based on a hadith I've related earlier from Mu'adh. It was prescribed in the heavens during the Israa' wal-Mi'raaj, without any intermediaries.

The Salah has a public call, five times a day, to remind the people. This also indicates that we should be mindful of the time, and that the call is made publicly and regularly shows the value of salah--everyone hears it, regardless of where they are or what they are doing. The men and women, young and old, all hear the reminder.

Another indication of the value of salah in Islam is that there is an obligatory state of purification necessary before beginning--wudhu. A person cannot come to prayer unless he or she is ritually pure, having washed after going to the bathroom, being intimate with a spouse, or coming clean from menstruation (for a woman.)

The fact that the obligation of salah remains even if a person is sick or traveling also indicates the importance of salah. There is a hadith to the effect that salah is the best of all deeds of worship. And the first thing we will be held to account for between us and Allah on the Day of Judgment is our salah.
Salah is a practical sign of obedience to the commands of Allah (s.w.t.). Its importance has been emphasized about 500 times in the Holy Qur’an.


Power of Prayers

Prayer is related to purity of heart. As we forgive others, God perpetually forgives us. Forgiveness is one of the deepest parts of love because it is one of the most difficult to give. But anger is devastating to prayer. The prayers of children are extremely powerful. Their faith is pure.
Salah is the name for the obligatory prayers that are performed five times a day, and are a direct link between the worshipper and God. There is no hierarchical authority in Islam and there are no priests. Prayers are led by a learned person who knows the Qur'an and is generally chosen by the congregation.
Prayer Points:

Surrender your problem entirely to God.
Be humble.
 Forgive all your enemies.
Have faith. Do not doubt.
Thank God in advance and praise Him.
Pray from the heart.

 Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said,
(Sahih Al-Bukhari)

The generality of the Prophet’s (SAW) statement includes women. Therefore, all the actions of the prayer apply equally to men and women. There is nothing in the Sunnah to necessitate the exception of women from any of these descriptions. It's a major misconception in Islam, that women pray different than men. Outside of the dress code, women do not pray different then men. Men and women pray equally in the same manner. There is no difference between the way a man prays and the way a woman prays.

..............................................What is a Rakat?..............................
 2 Rakat Example

Beginning First Rakah

"ALLAHU AKBAR"

(Allah is the Greatest)

"SUBHANA KALLAH HUMMA WABI HAMDIKA WATABARA KASMUKA WATA'ALA JAD-DUKA WALA ILAHA GHAVRUK"

(You are Glorified, Oh Allah, and Praised, Your Name is Blessed, Your Majesty is Exalted, and none has the right to be worshipped but You)

"A'U'THU BILLAHI MINASH-SHAITAN-IR-RAJEEM"

(I seek refuge with Allah from Shaitan the cursed one)
Reciting Surah Al-Fatiha

"BISMILLAHIR RAHMANIR RAHEEM"

(In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful)

"ALHAMDU LIL-LAHI RAB-BIL 'ALAMEEN" (Pause)

"AR RAHMA NIR-RAHEEM" (Pause)

"MALIKI YAWMID-DEEN" (Pause)

"IYYAKA NA'BUDU WA IYYAKA NASTA'EEN" (Pause)

"IHDINAS SIRATAL MUSTAQEEM" (Pause)

"SIRATAL LATHENA AN'AMTA 'ALAYHIM" (Pause)

"GHAYRIL MAGHDUBI 'ALAYHIM WALAD THAL-LEEN"

"AMEEN"

[All the praise and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of the 'Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists.) The Most Beneficient, the Most Merciful. The Only Owner (and the Only Ruling Judge) of the Day of Recompense (i.e. the Day of Resurrection). You (Alone) we ask for help (for each and everything). Guide us to the Straight Way. The Way of those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, not (the way) of those who earned Your Anger (such as the Jews), nor of those who went astray (such as the Christians)] (Oh Allah Answer)
Reciting Surah Al-Ikhlas

"BISMILLAHIR RAHMANIR RAHEEM" (Pause)

(In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful)

"QUL HUWAL LAHU AHAD" (Pause)

"ALLAH HUS SAWMAD" (Pause)

"LAM YALID WALAM YULAD" (Pause)

"WALAM YAKUN LAHU KUFUWAN AHAD"

{Say: [Oh Muhammad (SAW)]: He is Allah, (the) One, Allah As-Sawmad (the Self-Sufficient Master, Whom all creatures need, He neither eats nor drinks). He begets not, nor was He begotten; And there is none co-equal or comparable unto Him}
Performing Rukoo

"ALLAHU AKBAR"

(Allah is the Greatest)

"SUBHANA RAB-BI YAL ATHEEM" (3 times)

(Glory be to my Lord who is the very greatest)

"SAMEE 'ALLAH HU LIMAN HAMEEDA"

(Allah listens to the one who praises Him)

"RAB-BANA LAKAL HAMD"

(Oh, our Lord, all the praise be to You)
Performing Sujood

"ALLAHU AKBAR"

(Allah is the Greatest)

"SUBHANA RAB-BI A'LA" (3 times)

(Oh Allah, Glory be to You, the Most High)

"ALLAHU AKBAR"

(Allah is the Greatest)

"ALLAH HUM MAGHFIRLEE WARHAMNEE WAJBURNEE WAR FA'NEE WAHDINEE WA 'AFINEE WARZUQNEE"

(Oh Allah, forgive me, and have mercy on me, and keep me on the right path, and keep me healthy, and provide me with Halaal sources of living, and complete my shortcomings, and make my rank high)

"ALLAHU AKBAR"

(Allah is the Greatest)

"SUBHANA RAB-BI A'LA" (3 times)

(Oh Allah, Glory be to You, the Most High)
Rising For Second Rakah

"ALLAHU AKBAR"

(Allah is the Greatest)
Reciting Surah Al-Fatiha

"BISMILLAHIR RAHMANIR RAHEEM"

(In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful)

"ALHAMDU LIL-LAHI RAB-BIL 'ALAMEEN" (Pause)

"AR RAHMA NIR-RAHEEM" (Pause)

"MALIKI YAWMID-DEEN" (Pause)

"IYYAKA NA'BUDU WA IYYAKA NASTA'EEN" (Pause)

"IHDINAS SIRATAL MUSTAQEEM" (Pause)

"SIRATAL LATHENA AN'AMTA 'ALAYHIM" (Pause)

"GHAYRIL MAGHDUBI 'ALAYHIM WALAD THAL-LEEN"

"AMEEN"

[All the praise and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of the 'Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists.) The Most Beneficient, the Most Merciful. The Only Owner (and the Only Ruling Judge) of the Day of Recompense (i.e. the Day of Resurrection). You (Alone) we ask for help (for each and everything). Guide us to the Straight Way. The Way of those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, not (the way) of those who earned Your Anger (such as the Jews), nor of those who went astray (such as the Christians)] (Oh Allah Answer)
Reciting Surah Al-Falaq

"BISMILLAHIR RAHMANIR RAHEEM" (Pause)

(In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful)

"QUL AUTHUBI RAB-BIL FALAQ" (Pause)

"MIN SHAR-RIMA KHALAQ" (Pause)

"WA MIN SHAR-RI GHASIQIN ITHA WAQAB" (Pause)

"WA MIN SHAR-RIN NAF-FATHATI FIL 'UQAD" (Pause)

"WA MIN SHAR-RI HASIDIN ITHA HASAD" (Pause)

(Say: I seek refuge with (Allah) the Lord of the day-break, From the evil of what He has created; And from the evil of the darkening (night) as it comes with its darkness; (or the moon as it sets or goes away). And from the evil of the witchcraft's when they blow in the knots, And from the evil of the envier when he envies)
Performing Rukoo

"ALLAHU AKBAR"

(Allah is the Greatest)

"SUBHANA RAB-BI YAL ATHEEM" (3 times)

(Glory be to my Lord who is the very greatest)

"SAMEE 'ALLAH HU LIMAN HAMEEDA"

(Allah listens to the one who praises Him)

"RAB-BANA LAKAL HAMD"

(Oh, our Lord, all the praise be to You)
Performing Sujood

"ALLAHU AKBAR"

(Allah is the Greatest)

"SUBHANA RAB-BI A'LA" (3 times)

(Oh Allah, Glory be to You, the Most High)

"ALLAHU AKBAR"

(Allah is the Greatest)

"ALLAH HUM MAGHFIRLEE WARHAMNEE WAJBURNEE WAR FA'NEE WAHDINEE WA 'AFINEE WARZUQNEE"

(Oh Allah, forgive me, and have mercy on me, and keep me on the right path, and keep me healthy, and provide me with Halaal sources of living, and complete my shortcomings, and make my rank high)

"ALLAHU AKBAR"

(Allah is the Greatest)

"SUBHANA RAB-BI A'LA" (3 times)

(Oh Allah, Glory be to You, the Most High)

"ALLAHU AKBAR"

(Allah is the Greatest)
Beginning Tashahhud

"AT-TAHIY-YATU LIL-LAHI WAS SALAWATU WAT-TAY YIBATU. AS-SALAMU 'ALAYKA AY-YUHAN-NIBIY-YU WA RAHMA TULLAHEE WA BARKTUHU AS-SALAMU 'ALAYNA WA'ALA 'IBADIL'LA HI-SALIHEEN. ASH HADU ANLA ILAHAH ILLAL LAHU WA ASH HADU AN-NA MUHAMMADAN 'AB-DUHU WA RASULUH"

[All compliments, all physical prayer, and all monetary worship are for Allah. Peace be upon you, Oh Prophet, and Allah's Mercy and Blessings. Peace be upon us, and on the righteous slaves of Allah. (For when one says that, it includes every righteous slave in the heaven and the earth.) I bear witness that no one is worthy of worship except Allah. And that Muhammad (SAW) is His slave and Messenger]
As-Salah 'Ala An-Nabiyy (SAW) [Sending Prayers on the Prophet (SAW)]

"ALLAH HUMMA SAL-LI 'ALA MUHAMMADIN WA'ALA ALI MUHAMMADIN, KAMA SAL-LAYTA 'ALA IBRHAHEEMA WA'ALA ALI IBRAHEEMA INNAKA HAMEEDUM MAJEED, ALLAH HUMMA BARAK 'ALA MUHAMMADIN WA'ALA ALI MUHAMMADIN, KAMA BARAK TA 'ALA IBRAHEEMA WA'ALA IBRAHEEMA INNAKA HAMEEDUM MAJEED"

(Oh Allah, send prayers on Muhammad, and on the family of Muhammad, as you sent prayers on Ibraheem , and on the family of Ibraheem; You are indeed worthy of Praise, Full of Glory. Oh Allah, send blessings on Muhammad, and on the family of Muhammad, as you sent blessings on Ibraheem, and on the family of Ibraheem; You are indeed worthy of Praise, Full of Glory.)

Finishing Tashahhud

"ALLAH HUMMA ‘INNE A’UTHU BIKA MIN ATHABI JAHANNAM WA MIN ATHABIL QABRI WA MIN FITNATIL MAH YA WAL MAMATEE WA MIN SHAR-RIL MASIHID DAJ-JAL"

(Oh Allah, I seek refuge in You from the punishment of the Hellfire, and from the punishment of the grave, and from the trials of living and dying, and from the evil (trials) of the False Christ)

"ALLAH HUMMA INNEE THALAMTU NAFSEE THULMAN KATHEERAN, WALA YAGHFI RITH THUNUBA ILLA ANTA FAGHFIRLEE MAGHFIRATAN MIN'INDIKA, WAR HAMNEE INNAKA ANTAL GHAFURUR RAHEEM"

[Oh Allah, I have been very cruel to myself (by ignoring my duty to you) and there is no one who can forgive the sins except You. So forgive me because You are the only Forgiver and have Mercy on me. Verily You are the Forgiver and Merciful]

"ASSALAMU ALAIKUM WA RAHMATULLAH" (once each shoulder)

(May the Peace and Mercy of Allah be upon you)
Dua’s After Tashahhud

"ALLAHU AKBAR"

(Allah is the Greatest)

"ASTAGH FERRULLAH (3 times), ALLAHUMMA ANTAS SALAMU WA MINKAS SALAMU TABARAKTA YA THALJALAEE WAL IKRAM"

[I ask Allah to forgive me (3 times), Oh Allah, You are the Peace, and You are the Source of Peace, You are Blessed, Oh possessor of Glory and Honor]

"SUBHANA-ALLAH" (33 times)

(Glory be to Allah)

"ALHAMDULILLAH" (33 times)

(Praise be to Allah)

"ALLAHU AKBAR" (33 times)

(Allah is the Greatest)

"LA ILAHA ILLA ALLAHU WAH DAHU LA SHAREEKA LAHU, LAHUL MULKU WA LAHUL HAMDU, WA HUWA 'ALA KULLEE SHAY'IN QADEER"

(There is none worthy of worship except Allah alone, no associate does He have, His is the Kingdom, to Him is All-Praise, and He is well able to do all things)


How Many Rakat For Each Prayer

Fajr - 2 Sunnah* & 2 Fard

Thuhr - 2 Sunnah + 2 Sunnah* & 4 Fard & 2 Sunnah

Asr - 4 Fard

Maghrib - 3 Fard & 2 Sunnah*

Isha - 4 Fard & 2 Sunnah*

*Sunnah prayers are always done in sets of 2 rakat each.  This is the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

 Beginning the First Rakah - Making Takbir Tahrimah (The Opening Allahu Akbar) and Raising the Hands

This first "Allahu Akbar" is called takbir tahrimah because after saying takbir tahrimah every common and worldly action, talk or movement is forbidden. The fingers should be apart (not spaced out, or together) and hands raised level with the shoulders. Hands may be raised with the takbir, after the takbir, or before the takbir. Variation is good. Takbir may be said aloud or silently at any time of day.

"Allahu Akbar"

(Allah is the Greatest)

The Prophet (SAW) would raise them with fingers apart (not spaced out, nor together). (Sahih - Abu Dawood, Ibn Khuzaimah, Tammaam, and Al-Haakim)

Narrated Salim bin 'Abdullah (RA): My father said, "Allah's Apostle (SAW) used to raise both his hands up to the level of his shoulders when opening the prayer…" (Sahih - Al-Bukhari)

Abu Hurairah (RA) reported: "When the Messenger of Allah (SAW) got up for prayer, he would say the takbir (Allahu Akbar) when standing…" (Sahih - Muslim)

The Prophet (SAW) would raise his hands sometimes with takbir. (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and An-Nasaa’ee)

The Prophet (SAW) would raise his hands sometimes after the takbir. (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and An-Nasaa’ee)

The Prophet (SAW) would raise his hands sometimes before it. (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Abu Dawood)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "Verily, the prayer of a person is not complete until he has made and ablution which has included the necessary parts of the body and has then said: 'Allahu Akbar.'" (Sahih - Tabaraani)
Pointing Eyes to the Place of Sajdah (Prostration)

Throughout the prayer the eyes of the worshipper should point to the spot where the forehead rests in Sajdah (prostration). It is prohibited to look at the sky, to look here and there or to close the eyes.

"The Prophet (SAW) used to incline his head during prayer and fix his sight towards the ground." (Sahih - Al-Baihaqee and Al-Haakim)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "People must refrain from looking up at the sky in prayer, or their sight will not return to them (and in one narration ... or their sight will be plucked away)." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari, Muslim and Siraaj)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "Allah does not cease to turn to a slave in his prayer as long as he is not looking around; when he turns his face away, Allah turns away from him." (Sahih - Abu Dawood and others)
Placing the Hands and Arms on the Chest

One should then fold the right hand and arm over the left hand and arm on the chest. The right hand should look as if it is grabbing hold of the left arm with the fingers pointing toward the left elbow. It is prohibited to place the arms at or below the waist.

Wa'il ibn Hajr (RA) said, "I prayed with Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and he put his right hand over his left hand over his chest." (Sahih - Muslim, Ibn Khuzaimah, Abu Dawood)

"The Prophet (SAW) used to forbid putting one's hand on the waist during prayer [and he put his hand on his waist (to demonstrate)]." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Reciting Du'a Isti'aadhah (Supplication of Starting)

This du'a should be recited in the first rakah only. Always recite the du’a silently.

"Subhana kallah humma wabi hamdika watabara kasmuka wata'ala jad-duka wala ilaha ghavruk"

(You are Glorified, O Allah, and Praised, Your Name is Blessed, Your Majesty is Exalted, and none has the right to be worshipped but You)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "Indeed, the words most loved by Allah are when His slave says: 'Subhana kallah humma wabi hamdika watabara kasmuka wata'ala jad-duka wala ilaha ghavruk.'" (Hasan - Abu Dawood and Tahaawi)
Seeking Refuge with Allah (SWT)

The following should be recited in the first rakah only. Always recite silently.

"A'u'thu billahi minash-Shaitan-ir-Rajeem."

(I seek refuge with Allah from Shaitan the cursed one)

Then, the Prophet (SAW) would seek refuge with Allah (SWT) saying: "A’u’thu billahi minash-Shaitan-ir-Rajeem." (Sahih - Abu Dawood, Ibn Maajah, Daaraquni and Al-Haakim)
Beginning with the Name of Allah (SWT)

The following should always be said silently, not aloud, in every rakah before reciting Surah al-Fatiha.

"Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem"

(In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful)

Then Prophet (SAW) would recite, "Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem" (Sahih - Al-Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Awaanah, Tahaawi and Ahmad)
Reciting Surah (Chapter) Al-Fatiha (The Opening - Chapter 1)

Surah al-Fatiha must be recited in every rakah of every prayer (even when in congregation). When reciting Surah al-Fatiha divide the recitation by reciting one verse at a time. Stop at the end of each verse and do not join it with the one after, even if it is connected (in meaning) to it. "Thal-leen" should be prolonged for seven counts. Recite Surah al-Fatiha silently during the daylight prayers when the sun is up (i.e. Thuhr and Asr). In the first two rakat, recite Surah al-Fatiha aloud during the nighttime prayers when the sun is down (i.e. Fajr, Maghrib, Isha and Witr). Sunnah prayers are always said silently.

"Alhamdu lil-lahi rab-bil 'alameen. " (Pause)

"Ar rahma nir-raheem." (Pause)

"Maliki yawmid-deen." (Pause)

"Iyyaka na'budu wa iyyaka nasta'een." (Pause)

"Ihdinas siratal mustaqeem." (Pause)

"Siratal latheena an'amta 'alayhim." (Pause)

"Ghayril maghdubi 'alayhim walad thal-leen."

[All the praises and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of the 'Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists). The Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful. The Only Owner (and the Only Ruling Judge) of the Day of Recompense (i.e. the Day of Resurrection). You (Alone) we ask for help (for each and everything). Guide us to the Straight Way. The Way of those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, not (the way) of those who earned Your Anger (such as the Jews), nor of those who went astray (such as the Christians).]

The Prophet (SAW) would say, "Alhamdu lil-lahi rab-bil 'alameen. (Here he would pause, and then say:) Ar rahma nir-raheem. (Then he would pause, and then say:) Maliki yawmid-deen..." and so on, until the end of the Surah. The rest of his recitation was also like this: stopping at the end of the verse and not joining it with the one after. (Sahih - Abu Dawood and Sahmi)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "Whoever does not recite Surah Al-Fatiha in his prayer, his prayer is invalid." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari)
Reciting "Ameen" After Surah Al-Fatiha

Recite silently when alone, during the daylight prayers. Recite aloud or silently during the nighttime prayers.

"Ameen."

(Oh Allah Answer)

When the Prophet (SAW) finished reciting Surah al-Fatiha, he (SAW) would say, 'Ameen.' (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Abu Dawood)
Reciting Quran After Surah Al-Fatiha

After reciting Surah al-Fatiha, read any Surah from the Quran in the first two rakats. One or more Surahs may be recited. Recite the Quran in slow, measured rhythmic tones, not racing or hurrying; rather, recite clearly and distinguish each letter. Below are a few short Surahs. Recite silently during the daylight prayers when the sun is up (i.e. Thuhr and Asr). Recite aloud during the nighttime prayers when the sun is down (i.e. Fajr, Maghrib, Isha and Witr). Before reciting any Quran in prayer one must silently, at any time of day, "Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem."
Surah Al-Iklhas (The Purity - Chapter 112)

"Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem." (Pause)

(In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful)

"Qul huwal lahu ahad." (Pause)

"Allah hus sawmad." (Pause)

"Lam yalid. Walam yulad." (Pause)

"Walam yakun lahu kufuwan ahad."

(Say: [Oh Muhammad (SAW)]: He is Allah, (the) One. Allah As-Sawmad (The Self-Sufficient Master, Whom all creatures need, He neither eats nor drinks). He begets not, nor was He begotten; And there is none co-equal or comparable unto Him)
Surah Al-Falaq (The Day Break - Chapter 113)

"Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem" (Pause)

(In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful)

"Qul authubi rab-bil falaq." (Pause)

"Min shar-rima khalaq." (Pause)

"Wa min shar-ri ghasiqin itha waqab." (Pause)

"Wa min shar-rin naf-fathati fil 'uqad." (Pause)

"Wa min shar-ri hasidin itha hasad."

(Say: I seek refuge with (Allah) the Lord of the day-break, From the evil of what He has created; And from the evil of the darkening (night) as it comes with its darkness; (or the moon as it sets or goes away). And from the evil of the witchcraft’s when they blow in the knots, And from the evil of the envier when he envies)
Surah An-Nas (The Mankind - Chapter 114)

"Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem" (Pause)

(In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful)

"Qul authubi rab-bin nas." (Pause)

"Malikin nas." (Pause)

"Ila hin-nas." (Pause)

"Min shar-ril waswa sil khan-nas." (Pause)

"Allathee yuwaswisu fi sudu rin-nas." (Pause)

"Minal jin-nati wan-nas."

(Say: I seek refuge with (Allah) the Lord of mankind, The King of mankind, The ilah (God) of mankind, From the evil of the whisperer (devil who whispers evil in the hearts of men) who withdraws (from his whispering in one's heart after one remembers Allah), Who whispers in the breasts of mankind, Of jinns and men)

The Prophet (SAW) used to recite the Quran in slow, measured rhythmic tones as Allah (SWT) had instructed him, not racing or hurrying; rather, his was "a recitation clearly- distinguishing each letter. (Sahih - Ibn Al-Mubaarak)
Pausing After Quran Recitation

After completing the Quran recitation, pause for a moment.

"After completing his recitation, The Prophet (SAW) would pause for a moment..." (Sahih - Abu Dawood and Al-Haakim)
Raising Hands and Reciting Takbir

After pausing for a moment, the fingers should be apart (not spaced out, or together) and hands raised level with the shoulders. Hands may be raised with the Takbir, after the Takbir, or before the Takbir. Variation is good. The following may be said aloud or silently, at any time of day.

"Allahu Akbar"

(Allah is the Greatest)

Abu Hurairah (RA) reported: When the Messenger of Allah (SAW) got up for prayer, he would say the takbir (Allahu Akbar) when standing, then say the takbir when bowing…" (Sahih - Muslim)
Going Into and Performing Rukoo (Bowing)

After the Takbir, go into ruku by spreading the back and making it level [such that if water were poured on it, it (the water) would stay there (i.e. not run off)]. The hands should rest on the knees with the fingers spread apart, taking care that the arms do not touch the body. The hands will look as if they are grabbing the knees. The head should not droop nor should it be raised (not lower or higher than the back), but it should be in between. Be calm and relaxed, not in a hurry. After becoming calm and relaxed when the spine has settled, silently recite the following du'a atleast three times or more (odd numbers like 3, 5, 7, 9 11, etc.). Make the ruku nearly as long as the standing. Always recite the following silently.

"Subhana Rab-bi Yal Atheem" (3 times)

(Glory be to my Lord who is the very Greatest)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "When you make Ruku, place your palms on your knees, then space your fingers out, then remain (like that) until every limb takes its (proper) place." (Sahih - Ibn Khuzaimah and Ibn Hibbaan)

"He (SAW) used to spread himself (i.e. not be in a compact position), and keep his elbows away from his sides." (Sahih - Tirmidhi and Ibn Khuzaimah)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "When you make Ruku, put your palms on your knees, spread your back (flat) and hold firm in your Ruku." (Sahih - Ahmad and Abu Dawood)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "O assembly of Muslims! Verily, the prayer is not valid of the one who does not settle his spine in Ruku and Sujud." (Sahih - Ibn Abi Shaibah, Iban Maajah and Ahmad)

The Prophet (SAW) would say, "Subhana rab-bi yal atheem" (On the authority of seven different companions - Ahmad, Abu Dawood, Ibn Maajah, Daraaqutni, Tahaawi, Bazzaar, & Tabaraani)

The Prophet (SAW) used to make his ruku, his standing after ruku, his sujood, and his sitting in between the two sajdahs, nearly equal in length. (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Standing Up From Ruku

After the perfect ruku, while raising the head and straightening the back until bones return to their joints, the fingers should be apart (not spaced out, or together) and hands raised level with the shoulders and then bring them down to the sides of the body. Hands may be raised with the du'a, after the du'a, or before the du'a. Variation is good. The du'a is read whether behind an imam or not. This standing should be about as long as the ruku. Always recite the following silently.

"Samee 'Allah hu liman hameeda"

(Allah listens to the one who praises Him)

Then say, while standing. Always recite silently:

"Rab-bana lakal hamd"

(Oh, our Lord, all the praises be to You)

The Prophet (SAW) would straighten up his back out of ruku, saying, "Samee 'Allah hu liman hameeda" (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

The Prophet (SAW) would raise them (hands) with fingers apart (not spaced out, nor together). (Sahih - Abu Dawood, Ibn Khuzaimah, Tammaam, and Al-Haakim)

Narrated Salim bin 'Abdullah (RA): My father said, "Allah's Apostle (SAW) used to raise both his hands up to the level of his shoulders when opening the prayer; and on saying the Takbir for bowing. And on raising his head from bowing he used to do the same and then say "Sami a-l-lahu Liman hamida, Rabbana walaka-l-hamd." And he did not do that (i.e. raising his hands) in prostrations." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari)

The Prophet (SAW) has commanded all worshippers, whether behind and imam or not, to say the above on rising from ruku, by saying, "Pray as you have seen me praying." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Ahmad)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "…then rise from bowing till you stand straight…" (Sahih - Al-Bukhari)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "No person's prayer is complete until ... he has said takbir ... then makes ruku ... then has said "Allah listens to the one who praises Him" until he is standing straight." (Sahih - Abu Dawood and Al-Haakim)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "Allah, Mighty and Sublime, does not look at the prayer of the slave who does not make his backbone upright in between his bowings and prostrations." (Sahih - Ahmad and Tabraani)

The Prophet (SAW) would stand (for so long) sometimes that one would say, 'He has forgotten', [because of his standing for so long]. (Sahih - Al-Bukhari, Muslim, and Ahmad)
Reciting Takbir for Performing Sajdah (Prostration)

Recite Takbir silently or aloud, at any time of day, by saying:

"Allahu Akbar"

(Allah is the Greatest)

The Prophet (SAW) would say takbir and go down into sajdah (prostration). (Sahih - Al -Bukhari and Muslim)
Going Down and Performing First Sajdah (Prostration)

Go down to the ground by placing the hands on the ground before the knees (palms are used for support). Fingers should be together pointed them towards the Qiblah (even the thumbs). Palms should be level with the shoulders. Nose and forehead must be equally firm on the ground. Face and hands should be firm on the ground with all the bones in the body relaxed in their proper places. Knees and toes should be down firmly and pointing with the front the toes towards the Qiblah. Heels together and feet upright. Forearms should be raised above the ground and kept away from the sides of the body such that the whiteness of the armpits can be seen from behind (imagine a small animal wanting to pass under the arms, it should be able to do so). Forearms must NEVER rest on the ground (NOT EVEN WOMEN!!!). Seven limbs must be prostrating: the palms, the knees, the feet, the forehead and nose. Spine must be completely straight during sajdah, and one must be at complete ease. Always repeat the following du'a silently atleast three times or more (in odd numbers, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11,etc.), and make the sajdah nearly as long as the standing.

"Subhana Rab-bi A'la" (3 times)

(Oh Allah, Glory be to You, the Most High)

The Prophet (SAW) would say, "Subhana rab-bi a'la" (On the authority of seven different companions - Ahmad, Abu Dawood, Ibn Maajah, Daaraqutni, Tahaawi, Bazzaar, and Tabaraani)

The Prophet (SAW) used to say, "When one of you performs sajdah, he should not kneel like a camel, but should place his hands before his knees." (Sahih - Abu Dawood, Tammamm, and An-Nasaa’ee)

"The Prophet (SAW) would support himself on his palms (and spread them)." (Sahih - Abu Dawood)

"The Prophet (SAW) put his fingers together." (Sahih - Ibn Khuzaimah, Al-Baihaqee, and Al-Haakim)

"The Prophet (SAW) pointed them (fingers) towards the Qiblah." (Sahih - Al-Baihaqee)

"The Prophet (SAW) would put them (his palms) level with his shoulders." (Sahih - Abu Dawood and At-Tirmithi)

"The Prophet (SAW) would put his nose and forehead firmly on the ground." (Sahih - Abu Dawood and At-Tirmithi)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "When you prostrate, put your face and hands down firmly, until all of your bones are relaxed in their proper places." (Hasan - Ibn Khuzaimah)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "There is no prayer for the one whose nose does not feel as much of the ground as the forehead." (See Akhbaar Isbahaan - Daaraqutni, Tabaraani, and Abu Nu'aim)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "I have been ordered to prostrate on seven bones: on the forehead ... and he indicated by moving his hand around the nose, ... the hands, the knees and the toes, and not to tuck up the garments and hair." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

The Prophet (SAW) would raise them (fore-arms) above the ground, and keep them away from his sides such that the whiteness of his armpits could be seen from behind. (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

The Prophet (SAW) would also raise them (fore-arms) above the ground and keep them away from his sides such that if a small lamb or kid wanted to pass under his arms, it would have been able to do so. (Sahih - Muslim, Abu Awaanah, and Ibn Hibbaan)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "None of you should rest arms on the ground the way a dog rests them." (Sahih - Ahmad and At-Tirmithi)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "O Assembly of Muslims! Verily, the prayer is not valid of the one who does not settle his spine in ruku and sujood." (Sahih - Ibn Abi Shaibah, Tabaraani, and Haakim)

The Prophet (SAW) used to make his ruku, his standing after ruku, his sujood, and his sitting between the two sajdahs, nearly equal in length. (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Rising From Sajdah

After being calm and at ease in Sajdah, raise the head while saying silently or aloud, at any time of day:

"Allahu Akbar"

(Allah is the Greatest)

"The Prophet (SAW) would raise his head from Sajdah while saying takbir." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Jalsah (Sitting Between the Two Sajdahs)

Bring the left foot along the ground and sit on it. With the right knee on the ground, the right foot should be upright with toes pointing towards the Qiblah. This way of sitting is called muftarishan. Sit relaxed until every bone has returned to its proper position. This relaxing time should be almost as long as the sajdah. Always recite the following silently:

"Allah hum maghfirlee warhamnee wajburnee war fa'nee wahdinee wa 'afinee warzuqnee"

(Oh Allah, forgive me, and have mercy on me, and keep me on the right path, and keep me healthy, and provide me with Halaal sources of living, and complete my shortcomings, and make my rank high.)

The Prophet (SAW) would say, "Allah hum maghfirlee warhamnee wajburnee war fa'nee wahdinee wa 'afinee warzuqnee " (Sahih - Abu Dawood, At-Tirmithi, Ibn Maajah, and Al-Haakim)

"The Prophet (SAW) would lay his left foot along the ground and sit on it (relaxed)." (Ahmad and Abu Dawood)

"The Prophet (SAW) would have his right foot upright." (Sahih - An-Nasaa’ee)

"The Prophet (SAW) would point its (the foot) toes toward the Qiblah." (See Maa Rawaahu Abu Az-Zubair ‘an Ghair Jaabir - Muslim, Abu Awaanah, Abu Shaikh, and Al-Baihaqee)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "The prayer of any of you is not complete until he does this (to be relaxed until every bone returned to its (proper) position - Sahih - Abu Dawood and Al-Baihaqee)." (Sahih - Abu Dawood and Al-Baihaqee)


The last thing that Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) emphasized at his deathbed was Salah. He also said the first thing we will have to answer about on the day of judgement is Salah.

While in Salah one communicates with Allah (SWT) and experiences his presence. That's why a Hadith says: Salah is the Meraj of a Momin (Namaz is called as Meraj-ul-Momineen).

The Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) also said "The key to Heaven is Salah. The key to Salah is Purification."

"Namaz is a pillar of Religion. If Namaz is accepted all other deeds are accepted. If Namaz is rejected then all other Deeds are rejected." (Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh))

Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said: "Almighty Allah (SWT) has set the light of my eyes in Salah (Salat, Namaz) and made it the most desirable thing for me, like the food for the hungry and the water for the thirsty. The hungry is contented after the meal and the thirsty is satisfied after drinking water. But my thirst for Salah (Salat, Namaz) is never quenched."

Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said: "Everything has a face and the face of your religion is Salah (Salat, Namaz); none of you should stain the face of his religion."

According to a Hadith a companion of Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) came to him one day and asked him "What is the thing that Allah (SWT) loves most?" Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) replied "The thing that Allah (SWT) loves most is when his people pray Salah on time."

The Prophet (SAW) would lengthen it (sitting between the two sajdahs) until it was about almost as long as his sajdah. (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Reciting Takbir and Performing Second Sajdah

Then move to perform the second sajdah exactly like the first sajdah by saying silently or aloud, at any time of day:

"Allahu Akbar"

(Allah is the Greatest)

Always repeat the du'a silently atleast three times or more (in odd numbers, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11,etc.), and make the sajdah nearly as long as the standing.

"Subhana Rab-bi A'la" (3 times)

(Oh Allah, Glory be to You, the Most High)

"The Prophet (SAW) would say takbir and prostrate for the second time." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

"The Prophet (SAW) would say, ‘Subhana rab-bi a'la.’" (On the authority of seven different companions - Ahmad, Abu Dawood, Ibn Maajah, Daaraqutni, Tahaawi, Bazzaar, and Tabaraani
Rising From the Second Sajdah - End of First Rakah

After being calm and at ease, rise from the second sajdah in exactly the same way as rising from the first sajdah and say silently or aloud, at any time of day:

"Allahu Akbar"

(Allah is the greatest)

The Prophet (SAW) would raise his head from sajdah while saying takbir. (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Jalsah-e-Istarahat (Sitting For Rest)

Sit in this jalsah in exactly the same way as the first jalsah.

The Prophet (SAW) would sit straight (on his left foot, upright, until every bone returned to its position). (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Abu Dawood)


Islam prayer ensures that prayers are said five times each day and the timings are spread evenly throughout the day, so that a Muslim is constantly reminded of God and given sufficient opportunities to seek forgiveness and guidance from Him.

There are five obligatory prayers, which are rewardable and other optional prayers to perform. A praying Muslim must have reached the state of mental discrimination which is when a child reaches about seven lunar years.

It is said in the Holy Qur’an: "And truly Salah is hard save for the humble minded." Meaning, that Salah is hard only on those who are not ready to lead a life of obedience to Allah (s.w.t.), and on whom Salah is hard, provides himself proof of not being fit for the servitude and obedience to Allah (s.w.t.).

Salah improves and helps us to attain high moral qualities and to build a strong defense against evils which exist around us.

It is said in the Holy Qur’an, surely, Salah keeps you away from indecency and evil. This is why the prayer is described as "remembrance" to Allah (s.w.t.).
Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) said the bond man is nearest to Allah (s.w.t.) at the moment when he is lying in prostration before him.

Salah reminds you of Allah (s.w.t.), when you get up in the morning, it reminds you three more times when you are busy during the day, and once again before you go to bed.

Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) once said, "The worst form of theft, is the theft of prayer." "How can one commit theft in prayer?" his companions asked, The Holy Prophet (p.b.u.h.) replied "By skipping on the complete performance of bows and prostration’s."

While in salah one communicates with Allah (s.w.t.) and experiences his presence. That’s why a hadith says: Salah is the Meraaj of a Momin.

The Rasulullah (s.a.w.) also said "The key to HEAVEN is SALAH. The key to SALAH is PURIFICATION.

My dear sisters Salah is so important that a hadith says: Salah is the only distinction between a believer and a non-believer. So brothers and  brothers/sisters, if we know salah is obligatory, and we know we have to read it, Why not pray it on time?

Allah the Most Merciful

Asalaamu alaikam

In all Islamic texts, from the Quran to ahadith to various narrations, Allah swt's Mercy and Compassion on mankind is highly stated. There are just as many though, that state is Wrath and Punishment on wrongdoers.

Many people use either His wrath or compassion/mercy in particular to help them strive in attaining paradise (while being aware of the conflicting).

I wanted to go one step further or find out whether we as humans know from prophets/imams/holy books if Allah swt's wrath and mercy are comparible in magnitude, or is one stronger than the other? Does Allah swt have the same amount of compassion for us as He has wrath (if we deserve either)?

My thoughts so far are that His mercy may be greater, since we state His mercy before reading every surah and in every prayer. Also, there are multiple verses stating His Mercy, eg


'And ordain for us good in this world, as well as in the next; we have turned to Thee with repentance.' Allah replied, 'I will inflict My punishment on whom I will; but My mercy encompasses all things; so I will ordain it for those who act righteously and pay the Zakaat and those who believe in Our Signs' 7:157


Imam Bukhari and Muslim reported that the prophet (S.A.W.) said, "When Allah completed the creation, He wrote in His book which is with Him on His throne, "My mercy has overcome My anger.""

Imam Bukhari and Muslim reported that the prophet (S.A.W.) said, "Allah has divided mercy into one hundred parts, and He kept ninety-nine parts with Him and sent down one part on the earth, and because of that, one single part. His creatures are merciful to each other, so that even the mare lifts up its hoof away from its baby animal, so that she would not trample on it."

Imam Muslim reported that the prophet (S.A.W.) said: "When Allah created the heavens and the earth, he created one hundred mercies, each one can cover what is between the earth and the heaven. He allocated to the earth only one, with which the mother is compassionate with her child; the beast and the bird are compassionate with their babies. When the Day of Judgment comes, Allah will complete His mercy."

Allah (S.W.T.) has told us that from His names are "Arrahman Arrahim" the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful. He also told us in His Book about Himself, so He said in surat Al-An’am, (verse 54), what can be translated as, "…Your Lord has written mercy for Himself…"

He (S.W.T.) also said about His mercy in surat Al-‘Araf, (verse 156), what can be translated as, "…And My mercy embraces all things…"

These verses and many ahadith that talk about the mercy of Allah (S.W.T.), its extent, and its greatness, constitute an important aspect about the divine reality in the mind of the Muslim. It is a beautiful and reassuring concept that manifests itself in the merciful relationship between Allah (S.W.T.) and His servants.

The mercy of Allah (S.W.T.) is manifested in all of His creatures in this universe. This is especially in the lives of human beings; it is of a magnitude that we can not confine or measure, but we can point to some of mercies, so that we can be remind, and reflect on many others aspects of Allah’s immense mercy.

The mercy of Allah (S.W.T.) manifested itself in man at the point of His creation, and in making man better than many other creatures. Allah (S.W.T.) says when He talks about man in surat Al-Isra’, (verse 70), what can be translated as, "…And We have preferred them (human being) above many of those whom We have created with a marked preferment."

The mercy of Allah (S.W.T.) manifests itself in His subjecting what is in this universe for man’s use. Allah (S.W.T.) says in surat Al-Jathiyah, (verse 13), what can be translated as, "And has subjected to you all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth; it is all as a favor and kindness from Him."

The mercy of Allah (S.W.T.) manifests itself in what Allah (S.W.T.) in stilled in man. Byway of abilities to acquire knowledge and science and gave him the mind that can lead him to different sciences.

The mercy of Allah (S.W.T.) manifests itself for man. When Allah (S.W.T.) made man the khalifah on earth, He did not leave him without guidance, but rather He sent many messengers to guide him to the straight path, especially the comprehensive and complete Islamic legislation, that would keep him away from hardship and misery.

The mercy of Allah (S.W.T.) manifests itself in His overlooking the sins of the sinner when he unknowingly commits the sin then repents. Allah’s mercy is even beyond that; Allah (S.W.T.) changes the sins of the sinner, after his sincere repentance followed by righteous deeds, to good deeds (hasanat). Allah (S.W.T.) says in surat Al-Furqan, (verse 70), what can be translated as, "…Those who repent and believe, and do righteous deeds, for those, Allah will change their sins into good deeds…" All this is to prevent the sinners from feeling hopeless of the mercy of Allah (S.W.T.).

The mercy of Allah (S.W.T.) is manifested when Allah (S.W.T.) counts the sin of the sinner as one sin. The mercy of Allah (S.W.T.) is manifested further when Allah (S.W.T.) rewards the righteous doer on his good deed ten times what his good deed is worth and Allah (S.W.T.) multiplies his reward even more than ten times to whom He wants from His servants. Imam Buhkari and Muslim reported that the prophet (S.A.W.) said, "Allah ordered (the appointed angels over you) that the good and the bad deeds be written, and He then showed (the way) how (to write). If someone intends to do a good deed and he dose not do it, then Allah will write for him a full good deed; and if he intends to do a good deed and actually did it, then Allah will write for him (its reward equal) from ten to seven hundred times to many more times. And If someone intends to do a bad deed and he dose not do it, then Allah will write for him a full good deed (in his account) with Him, and if he intends to do a bad deed and actually did it, then Allah will write for him one bad deed." Also, Allah (S.W.T.) erases the sin with the good deed. Allah (S.W.T.) says in surat Huod, (verse 114), what can be translated as, "…Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds…"

Also, the mercy of Allah (S.W.T.) is the reason that Allah (S.W.T.) sends His believers to Paradise on the Day of Judgment. The prophet (S.A.W.) said: "None of you will enter Paradise with his deeds", They said: "Not even you, oh messenger of Allah?!", He said: "Not even me unless Allah bestows His mercy upon me."

The prophet (S.A.W.) illustrates to us the greatness of the mercy of Allah (S.W.T.) with His servants in many ahadith:

Imam Bukhari and Muslim reported that, "Some sabi (war prisoners, children and woman only) were brought before the prophet (S.A.W.) and behold, a woman amongst them, her chest was full of milk, and she found her baby boy amongst the captives, she took him over her chest and nursed him. The prophet said to his companions, "Do you think that this lady would throw her baby boy in the fire?" They replied, "No, if she has the power not to throw him in the fire." The prophet said, "Allah is more merciful to His servants than this lady to her son."

Imam Bukhari and Muslim reported that the prophet (S.A.W.) said, "If a disbeliever knows of all the mercy which is in the hand of Allah, he would not lose hope of entering Paradise…"

The prophet (S.A.W.) made utmost effort to clarify the reality of the mercy of Allah (S.W.T.) with His servants so that Muslims will be merciful among one another and be merciful with others, and know that this mercy is the way to gain the mercy of Allah (S.W.T.). Imam Abu Dawud, At-Tirmithi reported that the prophet (S.A.W.) said: "The merciful people will have mercy bestowed upon them by Allah (S.W.T.). Be merciful with those on earth, so He who in the heaven (Allah) will have mercy on you." Imam Bukhari, Muslim and At-Tirmithi reported that the prophet (S.A.W.) said: "Allah will not have mercy on the one who does not have mercy on people."

The prophet (S.A.W.) clarified to us that snatching mercy from the heart of a person is evidence of his unkindness. Imam Abu Dawud and At-Tirmithi reported that the prophet (S.A.W.) said: "Allah does not snatch mercy except from the unkind person"

The prophet (S.A.W.) taught us that mercy is not to be with man only but it is to be extended to include animals that Allah (S.W.T.) subjected to man to eat, so we should be kind to the animal when we slaughter it, and we should not torture it. Imam Muslim reported that the prophet (S.A.W.) said, "…And if you slaughter, slaughter well. Let each one of you sharpen his blade and let him spare suffering to the animal he slaughters."

The prophet (S.A.W.) mentioned to us that Allah (S.W.T.) forgave a sinning man, and a fornicating woman for their mercy and kindness with a thirsty dog, so they gave it water to drink. Imam Bukhari and Muslim report both stories.

Imam Abu Dawud and Ahmad reported that while the companions were once travelling with the prophet (S.A.W.), they noticed a bird that had two chicks, so they took away the two chicks, then the bird came and started to flap its wings. When the prophet (S.A.W.) came back, he asked: "Who has deprived this (bird) of its chicks? Return its chicks to it." Afterwards the prophet (S.A.W.) saw an ant colony had been burnt by some of his companions, he said: "Who has burnt this?" They replied, we did. Then he said: "No one has the right to torture with fire except the One who created the fire."



May we all bear in mind the graces bestowed on us by Allah (swt), the innumerable opportunities He provides us for repenting, to become closer to him, to show our love towards those He loves – send Salaam to Allah’s Messenger (saw).

Let us be conscious of Allah (swt)'s Mercy AND His Wrath.

Allah's Messenger (saw) said: “Allah the Most High says: 'O son of Adam! As long as you supplicate to Me and hope in Me, I will forgive you what you have done. O son of Adam! If your sins were to reach the lofty regions of the sky, then you ask Me for forgiveness, I would forgive you. O son of Adam! If you were to come to Me with enough sins to fill the earth, but you met Me not associating anything with Me I would bring you the like of it of forgiveness.” [Bukhari, 8/319]
From most of the literature I've read on this subject or prayers that mention Allah's mercy and wrath, it seems that the evidence points to the fact that Allah's mercy definitely exceeds his Wrath

And we ask that Allah the Most Merciful, bestow His favors and mercy on us in this life and the next. Ameen.

Salah (Prayer) and The Ablution

Assalama 'Alaykum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuhu,

“Live as you wish, safe, in the shade of the towering castles;
Whatever your desire is, whether it’s in the morning or in the evening.
But when the souls quiver in the shade of a rattling chest,at that moment you will know for certain, that all of this was nothing more than delusion.”
-Abu Latahiy.

If you make intense supplication
and the timing of the answer is delayed,
do not despair of it.
His reply to you is guaranteed;
but in the way He chooses,
not the way you choose,
and at the moment He desires,
not the moment you desire.
- Ibn Ata'illah Iskandari.

 The Five Times Are Specified in the Quran

(1)  The Dawn Contact Prayer is mentioned by name in 24:58. Before sunrise.
(2)  The Noon Contact Prayer is specified in 17:78. When the sun declines.
(3)  The Afternoon Contact Prayer is in 2:238. Midway between noon & sunset.
(4)  The Sunset Contact Prayer is mentioned in 11:114. Immediately after sunset.
(5)  The Night Contact Prayer is in 11:114, and is mentioned by name in 24:58.

 Preparation for the Contact Prayer  (The Ablution)

O you who believe, in preparation for the Contact Prayer, you shall
(1)  wash your faces,
(2)  wash your arms to the elbows,
(3)  wipe your heads with wet hands, and
(4)  wash your feet to the ankles.                      [Quran 5:6]

Like all other aspects of Submission, the Muslims have corrupted the ablution by adding unauthorized steps. Ironically, the innovations became vested with such authority that anyone who questions them finds himself accused of innovation!!

It is therefore crucial to uphold God's commands by strictly observing the ablution decreed in the Quran. Any additional steps represent another god besides God.
 The Major Ablution

Following any sexual activity that results in a climax (orgasm/ejaculation), one must bath or take a shower (4:43).

The Dry Ablution (Tayammum)

If water is not available, one must touch clean dry soil, then wipe his hands and face. This suffices as a substitute for ablution (4:43, 5:6).

What Nullifies Ablution

Digestive excretions through the intestines, including gas, solids, or urine nullify ablution. Sleeping also nullifies ablution, since one becomes unaware. Thus one may observe a number of Contact Prayers with one ablution, provided he or she does not go to the bathroom, pass gas, or fall asleep.

      In Islam, the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w)showed us how to pray to Allah S.W.T. through the examples of his many companions.  Everyone deserves the chance to pray to God directly(if they want to), at the same time, and to know that God is listening.  Sami'Allahu liman hamidah (God hears the praises sent to Him) Muslims would utter after the ruku' or the bowing part of the prayer.

      Prayer is one of the biggest signs of God's Mercy.  For it is through prayer that God cleanses our sins, at five points of time throughout our day.  Just imagine waking up early for work, after a bad night - for whatever reason.  The dawn prayer is our first appointment with God.  He knows that we are in a rush for the day's work.  The dawn prayer is only 2-cycle long.  Each cycle comprises of an initial standing position, a 90-degree bowing position, standing again, and prostrating on the ground.  Many Muslims like to say that prayer makes up for a lost exercise routine.  I must admit, these days prayers are the only time I move up and down with my body.  Still, the essence of the prayer lies in our soul.

         It is a form of meditation.  For those who are aware of God's existence and love, the prayer(salah) is a superior form of meditation.  Instead of focusing on the self, one should lose oneself by focusing on the Almighty.  That is why we shouldn't hurry to our place of prayer.  The companions of the Prophet were very meticulous in cleaning themselves before prayer (a prerequisite called wudhu).  This cleaning is not just a physical cleaning - it is the cleansing of our sins.  When we rub water throughout our skin, we should feel hopeful that all our sins are falling off like the drops of water that falls off from our limbs during wudhu.

       When we approach our prayer mat, we shouldn't rush into prayer.  We should close our eyes to free our mind from previous thought processes, take a deep breath and realize Who we are reciting to.

1)Allahu Akbar, we raise our hands to the shoulder area to enter into prayer - a sacred state in which nobody should pass in front of us except due to necessity.  We shouldn't  talk to anyone or be spoken to.

2) We put our arms together on our chest area, or according to another opinion (Maliki jurist),  simply leave our arms in a relaxed position on the side.  This is when a recitation is required. The Prophet said, "Whoever does not recite Surah Al-Fatiha in his prayer, it is not valid" (Bukhari, #435)  Al-Fatiha means the Opening.

3)After completing the Al-Fatiha, we should recite more Qur'an - even if it is only three verses long - but it is not obligatory.  Then one bow down on a 90-degree angle while praising God, and then return to the previous position.

4) Next, one prostrates on the ground and this is the time when a believer is the closest to God, and should make supplications to Him.  The sujood or prostration is something that should transport our mind to the day of Arising.  On the Day of Resurrection, Allah will appear in front of the gathering of people who are then instructed to prostrate.  (Sahih Bukhari, vol 9 hadith 532B.)

     Allah informed us, "The Day when the shin (of Allah) shall be laid bare and they shall be called to prostrate themselves but the hypocrites shall not be able to do so. " (Al-Qalam,68:42)

     In addition, the same hadith quoted above also informed us regarding Muslims whose deeds land them in the hellfire.  "When Allah intends mercy on whomever He likes amongst the people of Hell, He will order the angels to take out of Hell those who worshipped none but Him Alone.  The angels will take them out by recognizing them from the traces of prostrations.  For Allah has forbidden the fire to eat away those traces....The Water of Life will be poured on them and they will grow......"

        How Merciful is Allah.  Prayer maybe hard for us, but in reality it is just an appointment with Our Creator who loves us.  He wants to test our obedience to Him in this world, and show us our grades on Resurrection Day.   Prayer is like one of those energy points that we try to collect while playing video games.  We accumulate a lot of blunder, a lot of sins - and prayer erases all the minor sins.  It keeps us grounded to the belief in God and make us steadfast in order to execute the command of God in our daily lives despite all the challenges.

        There are only five appointments a day (no doctor or psychiatrist would be so generous!): 1) At dawn, 2) At noon -right after the sun reaches its apex and there is no shadow(or short one) on objects, 3) At midafternoon, when the shadows of objects at this time minus the shadow of objects at the previous prayer (noon) is equal to the height of the object, (too mathematical, which is why we now have the prayer calendar - just google online!)  4)After sunset, and 5) After twilight - ie. when real darkness of the night emerges.

May God accept our prayer.  O God, make the prayer easy for us to perform so we may draw closer to You.  Indeed You have created us for the sole purpose of worshipping You.  Make us amongst your grateful ones, through our sincere and focused prayer

Allah (SWT) has said in the Noble Qur'an: "I have not created the jinn and humankind for any other purpose except that they should worship Me." (Noble Qur'an 51:56)

It is clear from the above verse of Noble Qur'an that the purpose of our birth and of our life is no other than that of the worship of Allah (SWT). There are many acts of worship (Ibadah, Ibadat) in Islam, and Salah is one of the most important obligatory acts.

Salah (Salat, Namaz) is the ritual prayer practiced by Muslims in supplication to Allah (SWT). The term is commonly used to refer to the five daily prayers, which are compulsory upon all mature Muslims. Salah (Salat, Namaz) is considered the most important act of worship (Ibadah, Ibadat) in Islam and its importance is such that under very few circumstances it can be omitted.

Salah (Salat, Namaz) strengthens the foundations of our faith. It prepares a person to live the life of goodness and obedience to Allah (SWT), and it builds courage and determination. Every time we perform Salah, we renew our commitments to Allah (SWT) and we rid ourselves from worldly pressures five times a day.

According to a Hadith a companion of Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) came to him one day and asked him "What is the thing that Allah (SWT) loves most?" Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) replied "The thing that Allah (SWT) loves most is when his people pray Salah on time."

Salah (Salat, Namaz) is a practical sign of obedience to the commands of Allah (SWT). Its importance has been emphasized about 500 times in the Noble Qur'an.

Once Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) shook a dry branch of a tree so that all of the leaves of the branch fell off than the Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said "The sins of those who pray Salah, drop off as the leaves of this branch fell off."

Before Salah, we make Wudu. Wudu (Ablution) is a unique way of cleansing certain parts of our body so we are clean before bowing down to the one who created us, who created the universe the one and only Allah (SWT).

The Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) once asked his companions "Tell me if there was a river at the door step of one of you in which you washed five times a day would any of your dirt remain?" When Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) received the reply that none of it would remain he then said "That is like the five times Salah, with which Allah (SWT) wipes out sin.

The last thing that Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) emphasized at his deathbed was Salah. He also said the first thing we will have to answer about on the day of judgement is Salah.

While in Salah one communicates with Allah (SWT) and experiences his presence. That's why a Hadith says: Salah is the Meraj of a Momin (Namaz is called as Meraj-ul-Momineen).

The Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) also said "The key to Heaven is Salah. The key to Salah is Purification."

" Salah (  Namaz) is a pillar of Religion. If  salah  (Namaz) is accepted all other deeds are accepted. If Salah(Namaz) is rejected then all other Deeds are rejected." (Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh))
Importance of Salah in Islam: Sayings on Salah (Salat, Namaz)

Sayings on Salah (Salat, Namaz)Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said: "Almighty Allah (SWT) has set the light of my eyes in Salah (Salat, Namaz) and made it the most desirable thing for me, like the food for the hungry and the water for the thirsty. The hungry is contented after the meal and the thirsty is satisfied after drinking water. But my thirst for Salah (Salat, Namaz) is never quenched."

Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said: "Everything has a face and the face of your religion is Salah (Salat, Namaz); none of you should stain the face of his religion."

Commander of the Believers Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (pbuh) said: "Almighty Allah (SWT) has ordained the obligation of faith for purification from polytheism and the obligation of Salah (Salat, Namaz) for refraining from pride and arrogance."

Imam Jafar Sadiq (pbuh) said: "The superiority of Salah (Salat, Namaz) performed in the earliest moments over the one offered in the last moments of its specified time is the same as the superiority of the Hereafter over this world."

Imam Jafar Sadiq (pbuh) said: "It is quite possible that a person lives for fifty years and not even a single prayer of his is accepted. Is there anything harder and more painful than this? There are some people ... whose prayers ... will not be accepted ... because they belittle Salah (Salat, Namaz), while nothing but good is admitted to Almighty Allah (SWT). How can Almighty Allah (SWT) accept that which is considered to be of little worth?"

Imam Ali bin Moosa Al Ridha (pbuh) said: "When it is time for Salah (Salat, Namaz), perform your prayers; you never know what will happen afterwards ... Nothing is dearer to Almighty Allah than Salah (Salat, Namaz). Worldly affairs must not detract you from the prayer timings. Do not delay your prayers (from the prescribed timings) for no reason. Always perform your Salah (Salat, Namaz) on its best time."

Imam Ali bin Moosa Al Ridha (pbuh) said: "When you are praying, avoid being drowsy, slumberous, playing and hastening. Pray with solemnity, gravity and soberness. It is up to you to remain attentive, humble and submissive in Almighty Allah's presence. Stand in front of your Lord as a slave appears before his master. Keep your feet in order and your stature firm. Do not look here and there. Be as if you could see Him; for, if you do not see Him, He sees you."
Importance of Salah in Islam: Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) and Salah (Salat, Namaz)

Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) and SalahOne of the companions of the Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh), by the name of Sa'd, was very poor and was regarded as one of the People of the Ledge. Sa'd used to offer all his Salah (Salat, Namaz) prayers behind the Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh), who was greatly distressed by Sa'd's poverty. One day, the Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) promised him that if he got some money, he would give it to Sa'd. Time passed but no money came to the Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) who became even more distressed at Sa'd's situation. It was at this time that Jibril (Gabriel) descended, bringing with him two Dirhams.

Jibril (Gabriel) said to the Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh), "Allah (SWT) has said: We are aware of your distress in connection with Sa'd's poverty. If you want him to emerge from this state, give him these two Dirhams and ask him to engage himself in business."

The Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) took the two Dirhams and set out of the house for the Dhuhr prayers when he found Sa'd waiting for him near one of the rooms of the mosque.

Turning to Sa'd, the Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) asked: "Could you engage yourself in business?"

"By Allah (SWT)! I have no capital with which I can do business," replied Sa'd.

The Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) handed him the two Dirhams and told him to start business with this capital.

Sa'd took the money and after offering the Dhuhr and Asr Salah (Salat, Namaz) prayers set about to earn his livelihood.

Allah (SWT) blessed Sa'd in such a way that whatever he purchased for a Dirham, he would sell it for double the amount. Consequently, his financial state gradually improved. This continued till he eventually purchased a shop near the mosque and began conducting his business from there. As his business picked up, he began to become lax with respect to his acts of worship (Ibadah, Ibadat), even to the extent that when Hazrat Bilal ibn Rabah recited the Adhan he would not get ready for the prayers. Previously, he was ready well before Adhan was recited!

When the Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) noticed Sa'd's lateness for Salah (Salat, Namaz) prayers, he said to him: "Sa'd, this world has made you so busy that it has even weaned you away from your Salah (Salat, Namaz) prayers."

Salah is the Meraj of a MominSa'd replied, "What can I do? If I leave my wealth unattended, it will go to waste and I will end up in loss. From one person, I have to collect the money for the goods sold, while from another I have to take possession of the goods purchased."

The Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) was disturbed at Sa'd's involvement with his wealth and his negligence with respect to his acts of worship and Salah (Salat, Namaz) prayer. At that moment, Jibril (Gabriel) descended again and said: "Allah (SWT) has said: 'We possess knowledge of your distress. Which of the two states do you prefer for Sa'd?"

The Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) indicated that the previous state was beneficial for Sa'd. Jibril (Gabriel) agreed, "Yes, love for the world causes man to become heedless of the hereafter. Take back the two Dirhams, which you had given to him previously."

The Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) approached Sa'd and asked him if he could return the two Dirhams that he had given to him.

"If you desire, I shall even give you two hundred Dirhams," replied Sa'd.

"No, just give me the two Dirhams, which you had taken from me." said the Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh).

Sa'd handed the money to the Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) and within a short time, his financial situation turned a full circle and before long he found himself in his previous state.

Importance of Salah in Islam: Salah Timings (Prayer according to Islam, Salah Time)
Salah Timings
He remembered his grandmother's warning about praying Salah (Salat, Namaz) on time: "My son, you shouldn't leave Salah (Salat, Namaz) to this late time". His grandmother's age was 70 but whenever she heard the Adhan, grandmother got up like an arrow and performed Salah (Salat, Namaz). He however could never win over his ego to get up and pray Salah (Salat, Namaz). Whatever he did, his Salah was always the last to be offered and he prayed it quickly to get it in on time. Thinking of this, he got up and realized that there were only 15 minutes left before Salat ul Isha. He quickly made Wudu (Ablution) and performed Salat ul Maghrib. , he again remembered his grandmother and was embarrassed by how he had prayed Salah (Salat, Namaz). His grandmother prayed with such tranquility and peace. He began making Dua and went down to make Sajda (prostrating) and stayed like that for a while.

He had been at school all day and was tired, so tired. He awoke abruptly to the sound of noise and shouting. He was sweating profusely. He looked around. It was very crowded. Every direction he looked in was filled with people. Some stood frozen looking around, some were running left and right and some were on their knees with their heads in their hands just waiting. Pure fear and apprehension filled him as he realized where he was.

His heart was about to burst. It was the Day of Judgment. When he was alive, he had heard many things about the questioning on the Day of Judgment, but that seemed so long ago. Could this be something his mind made up? No, the wait and the fear were so great that he could not have imagined this. The interrogation was still going on. He began moving frantically from people to people to ask if his name had been called. No one could answer him. All of a sudden his name was called and the crowd split into two and made a passageway for him. Two people grabbed his arms and led him forward. He walked with unknowing eyes through the crowd. The angels brought him to the center and left him there. His head was bent down and his whole life was passing in front of his eyes like a movie. He opened his eyes but saw only another world. The people were all helping others. He saw his father running from one lecture to the other, spending his wealth in the way of Islam. His mother invited guests to their house and one table was being set while the other was being cleared.

He pleaded his case; "I too was always on this path. I helped others. I spread the word of Allah (SWT). I performed my Salah (Salat, Namaz). I fasted in the month of Ramadan. Whatever Allah (SWT) ordered us to do, I did. Whatever Allah (SWT) ordered us not to do, I did not."

He began to cry and think about how much he loved Allah (SWT). He knew that whatever he had done in life would be less than what Allah (SWT) deserved and his only protector was Allah (SWT). He was sweating like never before and was shaking all over. His eyes were fixed on the scale, waiting for the final decision. At last, the decision was made. The two angels with sheets of paper in their hands, turned to the crowd. His legs felt like they were going to collapse. He closed his eyes as they began to read the names of those people who were to enter Jahannam (Hell). His name was read first. He fell on his knees and yelled that this couldn't be, "How could I go to Jahannam? I served others all my life, I spread the word of Allah (SWT) to others". His eyes had become blurry and he was shaking with sweat. The two angels took him by the arms. As his feet dragged, they went through the crowd and advanced toward the blazing flames of Jahannam. He was yelling and wondered if there was any person who was going to help him. He was yelling of all the good deeds he had done, how he had helped his father, his fasts, prayers, the Noble Qur'an that he read, he was asking if none of them would help him. The Jahannam angels continued to drag him. They had gotten closer to the Hellfire. He looked back and these were his last pleas. Had not Holy Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said, "How clean would a person be who bathes in a river five times a day, so too does the Salah (Salat, Namaz) performed five times cleanse someone of their sins"? He began yelling, "My prayers? My prayers? My prayers?"

prayers Salah  ( Namaz )is called as Meraj-ul-MomineenThe two angels did not stop, and they came to the edge of the abyss of Hell (  Jahannam). The flames of the fire were burning his face. He looked back one last time, but his eyes were dry of hope and he had nothing left in him. One of the angels pushed him in. He found himself in the air and falling towards the flames. He had just fallen five or six feet when a hand grabbed him by the arm and pulled him back. He lifted his head and saw an old man with a long white beard. He wiped some dust off himself and asked him, "Who are you?" The old man replied, "I am your Salah (Salat, Namaz) prayers".

"Why are you so late? I was almost in the Fire! You rescued me at the last minute before I fell in". The old man smiled and shook his head, "You always performed me at the last minute, and did you forget?" At that instant, he blinked and lifted his head from Sajda (prostrating). He was in a sweat. He listened to the voices coming from outside. He heard the adhan for Salat ul Isha. He got up quickly and went to perform Wudu (Ablution).

Say Your Prayers Before Prayers For You Are Said .