"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?