How to Pray Salah: Namaz, also known as Salah, is the central act of worship in Islam, performed five times daily. It directly communicates between the believer and Allah, emphasizing submission, gratitude, and spiritual purification. This guide offers a detailed step-by-step approach to praying Salah, based on the Quran and Hadith.
How to Pray Salah Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preparing for Salah
a. Purity (Wudu)
Before starting Salah, ensure you are in a state of physical purity by performing Wudu (ablution). The Quran says: “O you who believe! When you intend to offer As-Salah, wash your faces and your hands up to the elbows, rub your heads, and wash your feet up to the ankles…” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:6).
b. Clean Environment and Attire
Ensure your body, clothing, and the place of prayer are clean. Modesty is key; men should cover from the navel to the knees, and women should cover their entire body except the face and hands.
c. Face the Qiblah
Stand facing the Ka’bah in Makkah. The Quran instructs: “Turn your face in the direction of Al-Masjid Al-Haram…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:144).
d. Intention (Niyyah)
Quietly make the intention in your heart for the specific Salah you are performing. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Intentions judge actions” (Bukhari, Muslim).
2. Step-by-Step Salah Procedure
a. Takbir (Opening)
Raise your hands to your ears and say, “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest). This signifies entering into Salah.
b. Qiyam (Standing)
While standing, place your right hand over your left on your chest. Recite:
- Dua’ al-Istiftah (Opening Supplication)
- Surah Al-Fatiha (The Opening): “In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful…”
- Any other Surah or verses from the Quran.
c. Ruku (Bowing)
Bow down, keeping your back straight and hands on your knees. Say, “Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem” (Glory is to my Lord, the Most Great) three times.
d. Qiyam (Standing After Ruku)
Return to the standing position, saying, “Sami’Allahu liman Hamidah” (Allah hears those who praise Him). Then say, “Rabbana lakal-hamd” (Our Lord, to You belongs all praise).
e. Sujood (Prostration)
Prostrate with your forehead, nose, palms, knees, and toes touching the ground. Recite, “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la” (Glory is to my Lord, the Most High) three times.
f. Jalsa (Sitting)
Sit briefly and say, “Rabbighfir li” (My Lord, forgive me).
g. Second Sujood
Repeat the prostration.
h. Repeat for All Rak’ahs
Perform the required number of Rak’ahs (units) depending on the prayer.
3. Tashahhud and Salutations
In the final sitting, recite the Tashahhud: “All greetings, prayers, and goodness belong to Allah…” Follow with sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): “Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad…”
Conclude with the Salam by turning your head to the right and saying, “As-salamu ‘alaykum wa Rahmatullah” (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you), and then to the left.
4. Concluding Salah
After Salah, engage in personal supplications (Dua) and remembrance of Allah (Dhikr). The Prophet (peace be upon him) encouraged saying, “SubhanAllah” (33 times), “Alhamdulillah” (33 times), and “Allahu Akbar” (34 times).
Importance of Salah
Salah is a pillar of Islam and a source of immense spiritual benefits. The Quran states: “Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater…” (Surah Al-Ankabut, 29:45).
By following this guide, one can ensure their Salah aligns with the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah, fostering a deeper connection with Allah.
