Salah, also called namaz, is the second pillar of Islam after the shahada. Salah is an obligatory and major form of worship that a Muslim offers five times a day regularly. Literally translated, Salah means prayer or supplication. In the Shari’ah term, Salah means the pure way of worshiping and serving Allah Almighty. Which Allah Almighty taught to the Holy Prophet (SAW). And the Prophet (SAW) instructed us to perform certain actions at specific times, which is called prayer in general terms. Allah says in Qur’an: “ Indeed, the prayer is compulsory upon the believers according to the prescribed time”. [ 4: 103]
Obligatory prayers
There are five obligatory prayers that must be performed; they are as follows:
- Fair: Performed before sunrise
- Zohr: Performed at midday
- Asr: Performed between Zohr and sunset
- Maghreb: Performed at sunset
- Isha: Performed between Maghrib and midnight
On Fridays, a congregational prayer Salāt al-Jumʿah is offered just after noon, in place of the prayer. It also includes two sermons(khutbah) from the pulpit.
Performing Salah:
Although the individual performance of the Salawat is permissible and can be performed in any clean place at home or work. But the collective worship in the mosque has a special capacity. After turning their faces towards the Kaaba in Mecca, the worshipers stand in parallel rows behind the imam or prayer leader. Who guides them as they perform the rak’ahs (along with the Qur’anic recitation and physical posture).
Salah according to the Quran:
The establishment of Salah is one of the popular topics upon which the Quran has intensified more than anything else. In Qur’an Allah Almighty emphasized Muslims to offer Salah regularly and has also mentioned its benefits with it as well. Here we will discuss the major benefits of Salah in the light of the Holy Qur’an.
Staying Connected With Allah:
Salah creates a connection with Allah Almighty. Muslims know that Allah Almighty is their Lord and the Giver of everything. They try to create a relation with Him and wish to remain connected with Him as much as possible. So that their relationship grows strong. Salah can effectively support in obtaining so, as Allah says in Quran: “And when you have offered the prayer, remember Allah standing, sitting, or [lying] on your sides. Then when you are satisfied, establish the prayer as usual. Indeed, the prayer is obligatory upon the Muslims at the appointed time”. [4:103]
Therefore, offering prayers is a source of developing a connection with Allah Almighty. And when a Muslim performs so five times a day, then the consequent relationship is to naturally grow strong.
Reward In The Afterworld:
Salah will be a source of reward in the Afterworld. Every work, whether good or bad that a Muslim does in this life, he or she will have to be responsible for it in the hereafter. Although all the actions get rewarded in the afterlife. However, the real reward of Salah will truly be understood in the afterlife. When Allah Almighty will shower great blessings on that person. Allah says in the Holy Quran: “Indeed, those who believe and perform good works and offer prayer and pay zakah, their reward is with their Lord, and they will have no worry, nor will they grieve”. [2:277]
Hence, prayer is not something that finishes up in this world. Rather, the actual reward of it will come to the surface in the afterlife.
Shields against evil:
Salah is a shield against evil. Man was created weak and without seeking help from Allah, it will be difficult to avoid evil. Allah says: “And establish prayer. Indeed, prayer forbids indecency and evil”. [29:45]
There is no doubt that the one who stands in front of Allah willingly will be distinct from the one who doesn’t. How can you go on to commit the same sins if you’re standing before Allah 5 times a day?
Enriches the soul:
Salah strengthens the soul. Man is forgetful, particularly with our busy lifestyles. Prayer fulfills our spiritual need to be in contact with our Creator. This gives the soul peace and contentment. Allah says: “Those who believe and their hearts find peace in the remembrance of Allah”. [13:28]
Washes away sins:
Salah washes away sins. Everyone commits sins, consciously and unconsciously. Allah mentioned in the Quran a way to wipe out those sins. Allah says: “And perform prayer. Surely the good deeds remove the evils deeds”. [11:114]
Conclusion:
In a nutshell, Salah plays an important role in Islam. Those who learn and read Quran on regular basis are aware of the importance of Salah. They know how forcefully has Allah Almighty emphasized Salah and illustrated its importance to the people in Quran. Muslims must realize their duty. Salah is an obligation and every Muslim has to fulfill his or her responsibility.
