How to Perform Salah According to the Hanafi School of Thought (Hanafi Maslak)

The Hanafi school of thought is one of the four major Sunni Islamic schools, and it provides specific guidelines for performing Salah (prayer). Here is a simple step-by-step guide on how to perform Salah according to the Hanafi way:

1. Make Niyyah (Intention)

• Before starting the prayer, make the intention in your heart for which prayer you are going to offer (e.g., Fajr, Zuhr, Asr, etc.). The intention is not said aloud, but it should be clear in your heart.

2. Saying “Allahu Akbar” (Takbir al-Ihram)

• Stand facing the Qibla (direction of the Kaaba in Makkah).
• Raise your hands to shoulder level and say “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest). This marks the beginning of the prayer.

3. Qiyam (Standing) and Recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha

• While standing, place your right hand over your left hand on your chest or just above the navel.
• Recite Surah Al-Fatiha (The Opening) aloud if you are praying alone or in congregation, and silently if praying behind an Imam.
  • Surah Al-Fatiha: “In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Master of the Day of Judgment. You alone we worship, and You alone we ask for help. Guide us on the Straight Path, the path of those who have received Your grace, not the path of those who have brought down wrath upon themselves, nor of those who have gone astray.”
• After reciting Surah Al-Fatiha, recite another Surah from the Qur’an (such as Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, or Surah An-Nas).

4. Ruku (Bowing)

• After reciting, bow down by placing your hands on your knees, keeping your back and head level and parallel to the ground.
• In Ruku, say “Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem” (Glory be to my Lord, the Almighty) three times (or more).
• Your fingers should be spread, and your back should be straight in this position.

5. Standing Up from Ruku (I’tidal)

• Stand up straight from the bowing position. While doing so, say “Sami’ Allahu liman Hamidah” (Allah hears the one who praises Him), and then “Rabbana lakal hamd” (Our Lord, to You is due all praise).
• Your hands should be placed at the sides while standing straight.

6. Sujood (Prostration)

• Move to the ground and perform Sujood (prostration). In this position, your forehead, nose, both palms, both knees, and the toes of both feet should touch the ground.
• While in Sujood, say “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la” (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) three times (or more).
• In this position, your elbows should be raised, and your thighs should not touch your stomach.

7. Sitting Between Two Sujoods (Jalsa)

• After the first Sujood, sit on your legs with your hands on your thighs and knees.
• In this sitting position, say “Rabbighfir li” (My Lord, forgive me) and remain in this position briefly.

8. Second Sujood (Prostration)

• Perform the second Sujood in the same manner as the first one, saying “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la” three times.

9. Tashahhud (Testification)

• After the second Sujood, sit for the Tashahhud (testification). This is done in the final sitting of the prayer.
• In this sitting, recite:
  “At-tahiyyatu lillahi was-salawatu wat-tayibatu, assalamu ‘alayka ayyuhan-nabiyyu wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh, assalamu ‘alayna wa ‘ala ibadillahi as-salihin, ashhadu alla ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lahu wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan abduhoo wa rasooluh.”
  • Translation: “All greetings, blessings, and good acts are for Allah. Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you, O Prophet, and His blessings. Peace be upon us and on the righteous servants of Allah. I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, He is One, and He has no partner, and I bear witness that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is His servant and Messenger.”

10. Final Tashahhud and Salaam (Salam)

• After completing the final Tashahhud, if it is a two-unit prayer (e.g., Fajr), end the prayer by turning your head to the right and saying “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah” (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you).
• If it is a prayer with more than two units (e.g., Zuhr, Asr, etc.), after the second or third unit, perform the same steps until the final sitting, and then turn your head to the right and left, saying “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah” (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you) on both sides.

11. After Salah

• After finishing the prayer, you can make Dua (supplication) and ask Allah for what you need.

Summary of Key Points in Hanafi Prayer:

• Niyyah (Intention) is made before starting the prayer.
• Raise hands to say Allahu Akbar.
• Recite Surah Al-Fatiha aloud, followed by another Surah.
• Perform Ruku, Sujood, and I’tidal with specific supplications.
• After the second prostration, sit for Tashahhud and then say Salam to end the prayer.

In dept study :

Salaat (Prayer)

The Importance of Salaat

In the sight of Allah Ta’ala, Salaat holds great significance. No other act of worship is dearer to Allah than Salaat. Allah has made it obligatory for His servants to perform five daily prayers. Performing Salaat brings immense rewards, while neglecting it leads to severe consequences.

A Hadith states that one who performs wudu properly and offers Salaat with full concentration will have their minor sins forgiven and will be granted Paradise on the Day of Judgment. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Salaat is a pillar of Deen. The one who performs it properly has upheld Deen, and the one who neglects it has destroyed Deen.”

In another narration, the Prophet ﷺ stated:

“The first deed to be reckoned on the Day of Judgment will be Salaat. The hands, feet, and faces of those who performed their prayers regularly will shine like the sun, whereas those who neglected it will be deprived of this blessing.”

Moreover, the Prophet ﷺ warned:

“On the Day of Judgment, those who performed their Salaat will be raised with the Prophets, martyrs, and saints. Those who neglected their Salaat will be resurrected with the worst disbelievers: Pharaoh, Haman, and Qarun.”

Neglecting Salaat not only harms a person in this world but also in the Hereafter. A person who deliberately abandons Salaat is considered similar to a disbeliever in seriousness.

Who is Exempt from Salaat?

Salaat is not obligatory on:

• A lunatic (mentally incapacitated person).
• Children who have not yet reached puberty.

However, parents are instructed to:

• Encourage their children to pray from the age of seven.
• Discipline them if they neglect Salaat by the age of ten.

For all other Muslims, performing Salaat is compulsory (fard) under all circumstances.

Never Abandon Salaat

Under no condition is it permissible to completely discard Salaat. If one forgets or oversleeps, they must offer the missed prayer immediately upon remembering.

• If unconscious, there is no sin, but the missed Salaat must be performed once consciousness is regained.
• If a Makruh (disliked) time is ongoing, one should wait until it passes before performing the missed prayer.

Times of Salaat

Understanding the correct timing for each prayer is essential.

1. Fajr (Morning Prayer)

• Begins: When the first whiteness appears on the horizon before sunrise.
• Ends: The moment a small portion of the sun appears.
• Preferred time: Early when it is still dark.

2. Zuhr (Midday Prayer)

• Begins: After the declining of the sun from its zenith.
• Ends: When the shadow of an object becomes twice its length.
• Preferred time:
  • Summer: After the intense heat subsides.
  • Winter: At the beginning of Zuhr time.

3. Asr (Afternoon Prayer)

• Begins: When the shadow of an object is twice its length.
• Ends: Before sunset.
• Makruh Time: When the sun turns yellow.
• No nafl or missed Salaat should be performed after Asr.

4. Maghrib (Evening Prayer)

• Begins: Immediately after sunset.
• Ends: When the redness disappears from the western horizon.
• Preferred time: Offered without delay after sunset.

5. Isha (Night Prayer)

• Begins: After the redness disappears from the western horizon.
• Ends: Until dawn.
• Makruh Time: After midnight, as the reward is reduced.
• Preferred time: Before one-third of the night passes.

Rules Related to Salaat Timings

1. Zuhr should be delayed in summer and performed early in winter.
2. Asr should not be delayed until the sun turns yellow.
3. Maghrib should be offered immediately after sunset.
4. Witr should be performed after Tahajjud if one is certain of waking up; otherwise, it should be performed after Isha.
5. No Salaat is valid at three times:
   • Sunrise
   • Midday (when the sun is at its zenith)
   • Sunset (except if Asr was missed).
6. After Fajr and Asr, no nafl prayers should be performed.
7. If Fajr Salaat is started before sunrise but the sun rises during the prayer, it becomes invalid and must be repeated later.
8. Sleeping before Isha is makruh unless one is ill or traveling.
9. For Fajr, men should pray when light spreads, while women should pray in darkness.
10. The time for Jumu’ah (Friday prayer) is the same as Zuhr but should be offered early.
11. The time for Eid Salaat begins after sunrise and lasts until just before midday.
12. It is Makruh to pray:
    • While the Khutbah of Jumu’ah, Eid, or Hajj is being delivered.
    • Immediately before Eid Salaat.
    • While the Iqamah is being called (except for the Sunnah of Fajr, if time allows).
13. Tahajjud prayer should be performed in the last third of the night.
14. Sajdah-e-Tilawat (Prostration of Recitation) is not allowed at prohibited times.
15. Missed Salaat (Qada) can be performed at any time except during the three prohibited times.

Adhaan – The Call to Prayer

1. Timing and Validity of the Adhaan

• The Adhaan must be called only after the prayer time has begun. An Adhaan given before the designated time is invalid and must be repeated.
• This applies to all prayers, including Fajr.

2. Language and Format

• The Adhaan and Iqaamah must be recited in Arabic, exactly as taught by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
• If recited in another language or with altered wording, it is invalid, even if people understand its purpose.

3. Eligibility to Call the Adhaan

• The Mu’azzin (caller of the Adhaan) must be male. A woman’s Adhaan is not valid and must be repeated.
• The Mu’azzin must be of sound mind. If an insane person, a young child without understanding, or an intoxicated individual calls the Adhaan, it is invalid.

4. Sunnah Method of Calling the Adhaan

• The Mu’azzin should be in a state of purity.
• He should stand in an elevated place, face the Qiblah, insert his forefingers into his ears, and call out the Adhaan loudly (but without straining his voice).
• The words of the Adhaan are as follows:
  Allahu Akbar (4 times),
  Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah (2 times),
  Ashhadu anna Muhammadar Rasulullah (2 times),
  Hayya ‘alas-salah (2 times, turning to the right),
  Hayya ‘alal-falah (2 times, turning to the left),
  Allahu Akbar (2 times),
  La ilaha illa Allah (once).
• In the Fajr Adhaan, after Hayya ‘alal-falah, the phrase As-salatu khayrun minan-nawm (2 times) is added.

5. Key Considerations During the Adhaan

• The Adhaan should not be recited in a singing tone or with varying volume.
• After each phrase, the Mu’azzin should pause briefly to allow listeners to repeat the words.
• The Adhaan should be called out loudly, while the Iqaamah should be recited in a slightly softer voice.

6. The Iqaamah

• The Iqaamah follows the same wording as the Adhaan, with these differences:
  • It is called inside the mosque.
  • It is recited in a lower tone.
  • Instead of As-salatu khayrun minan-nawm, the phrase Qad qamatis-salah (2 times) is recited.
  • There is no need to insert fingers into the ears or turn right and left while saying Hayya ‘alas-salah and Hayya ‘alal-falah.

Rules Concerning the Adhaan and Iqaamah

1. When is the Adhaan Necessary?

• The Adhaan is a Sunnah Mu’akkadah for every Fard prayer, whether prayed alone or in congregation.
• For Jumu’ah prayer, the Adhaan should be called twice.

2. Missed Prayers and the Adhaan

• If a missed prayer is being performed, the Adhaan should be recited quietly unless the missed prayer was due to a communal reason.
• If multiple missed prayers are being made up together, the Adhaan should be called for the first one only.

3. Adhaan for Travelers

• If a traveler is with companions, calling the Adhaan is Mustahab (recommended) but not Sunnah Mu’akkadah.

4. Home Prayers

• If a person prays at home, the Adhaan and Iqaamah are recommended, provided the local mosque has already called the Adhaan.

5. Repeating the Adhaan and Iqaamah

• If a mosque’s Adhaan and prayer have already been completed, repeating the Adhaan and Iqaamah for an individual prayer is Makruh (disliked).
• However, if the mosque has no appointed Imam or Mu’azzin, it is preferable to recite them.

6. Women and the Adhaan

• Women should not call the Adhaan or Iqaamah, whether praying alone or in congregation.

7. Adhaan for Non-Fard Prayers

• The Adhaan is not prescribed for:
  • Janazah (funeral) prayer
  • Witr prayer
  • Eid prayers
  • Nafl (voluntary) prayers

8. Responding to the Adhaan

• It is recommended (Mustahab) to repeat the words of the Adhaan when hearing it.
• When the Mu’azzin says Hayya ‘alas-salah and Hayya ‘alal-falah, one should reply:
  La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah
• For As-salatu khayrun minan-nawm, one should reply:
  Sadaqta wa bararta
• After the Adhaan, one should send salutations upon the Prophet ﷺ and recite the prescribed supplication.

9. Obligations During the Jumu’ah Adhaan

• Upon hearing the Jumu’ah Adhaan, it becomes obligatory to leave all work and head to the mosque.

10. When Not to Respond to the Adhaan

• One should not respond to the Adhaan in the following cases:
  1. During prayer
  2. While listening to a Khutbah (sermon)
  3. During menstruation or postnatal bleeding
  4. While engaged in teaching Islamic knowledge
  5. During intimate relations
  6. While relieving oneself
  7. While eating
  8. If too much time has passed since hearing the Adhaan

11. Special Cases

• If the Mu’azzin dies, faints, or is interrupted during the Adhaan, it should be restarted.
• If too much time passes after the Iqaamah before the prayer starts, it should be repeated.

12. Who Should Call the Iqaamah?

• The Mu’azzin who called the Adhaan has the right to call the Iqaamah, unless he allows someone else to do so.

Sunnah and Recommended Practices for the Adhaan and Iqaamah

Sunnah for the Mu’azzin

1. The Mu’azzin must be a male; a woman’s Adhaan is invalid.
2. He must be of sound mind.
3. He should be knowledgeable about the prayer timings and the rulings of the Adhaan.
4. He should be pious and God-conscious, reminding people to attend the congregation.
5. He should have a clear and loud voice.

Sunnah for the Adhaan and Iqaamah

1. Adhaan should be called from a high place outside the mosque. The Iqaamah should be called inside the mosque.
2. The Adhaan should be recited while standing.
3. It should be called in a loud voice, except for private prayers.
4. The Mu’azzin should insert his fingers into his ears while calling the Adhaan.
5. Pauses should be maintained between phrases in the Adhaan, while the Iqaamah is recited more continuously.
6. The Mu’azzin should turn right and left while saying Hayya ‘alas-salah and Hayya ‘alal-falah without turning his chest or feet away from the Qiblah.
7. Facing the Qiblah during the Adhaan and Iqaamah is preferred.
8. The Mu’azzin should be in a state of purity.
9. The sequence of words must be maintained; if mixed up, only the incorrect part should be repeated.
10. No unrelated speech should be made during the Adhaan or Iqaamah.

The Prerequisites of Salaat (Prayer)

1. Essential Conditions Before Commencing Salaat

Before starting salaat, the following conditions must be met:

• Purification: Perform wudu (ablution) if required. If ghusl (ritual bath) is needed, it must be done.
• Cleanliness: Ensure the body, clothing, and the place of prayer are free from impurities.
• Covering the Body for women: Apart from the face, hands, and feet, the entire body must be properly covered.
• Facing the Qiblah: One must be oriented toward the qiblah.
• Correct Intention: An intention must be made for the specific salaat being offered.
• Proper Timing: Salaat must be performed within its designated time.

Failure to fulfill any of these conditions invalidates the salaat.

2. Clothing Requirements for Salaat for Women

• A thin, see-through scarf does not fulfill the requirement of proper covering.
• If a woman’s quarter or more of the calf, thigh, or arm is exposed during salaat and remains so for the time it takes to say Subhanallah three times, the salaat becomes invalid and must be repeated.
• If the exposed area is immediately covered, the salaat remains valid.
• This rule applies to all parts that must be covered, including the ear, head, hair, stomach, back, neck, and chest.

3. Special Cases of Clothing and Purity

• If a girl who has not yet reached puberty has her head uncovered during salaat, it remains valid.
• If water is unavailable, salaat should be performed even if there is impurity on the body or clothing.
• If most of the clothing is impure, one can pray either in those clothes or without them, but it is preferable to wear the impure clothes.
• For men: The area from the navel to the knees must be covered. If the upper body is uncovered, the salaat is valid but disliked (makruh).

4. Carrying or Wearing Impure Objects During Salaat

• If an impure object (e.g., an impure piece of cloth) is large enough that it does not move with the body’s movements, there is no harm.
• If carrying a child during salaat, the child’s clothing must also be pure.
• If a dog sits on a person during salaat but does not release saliva, the prayer remains valid.
• A sealed bottle of urine is not allowed, even if it is sealed.

5. Purity of the Prayer Area

• The place of prayer must be free from impurities such as urine, stool, and semen.
• An excusable small amount of impurity does not affect the validity of the prayer.
• If only one foot’s place is pure, salaat is still valid.
• If praying on a cloth covering an impure area, the cloth must be thick enough to prevent the impurity from being visible.

6. Praying Without Clothes

• If a person has no clothes, they must pray naked in a private place.
• The prayer should be performed sitting with gestures for ruku and sujood, but standing and performing the movements fully is also valid.
• If someone is forced to be without clothes due to human action (e.g., in prison), they must repeat the salaat once their condition changes.

7. Prioritizing Wudu and Purity

• If limited water is available, it should be used to clean impurity first, and tayammum should be performed for wudu.

8. Validity of Salaat Timing

• If a person finishes Zuhr and realizes Asr time has already begun, the salaat counts as qada (missed prayer) and does not need to be repeated.
• If a prayer is performed before its actual time, it is invalid.

9. Intention (Niyyah) for Salaat

• Verbal intention is not required; a mental determination is sufficient.
• If made verbally, a simple intention such as “I am praying today’s Fard of Zuhr” is enough.
• Mistakenly mentioning the wrong prayer (e.g., saying Asr instead of Zuhr) does not invalidate the intention if the correct prayer was intended in the heart.

10. Intention for Qada Salaat (Missed Prayers)

• If making up missed prayers, one must specify the exact prayer (e.g., “I am making qada for Fajr of Saturday”).
• If the date is unknown, the intention should be made as: “I am making qada for my earliest missed Fajr.”

11. Intention for Sunnah and Taraweeh

• For non-obligatory prayers, a general intention (e.g., “I am praying”) is sufficient.
• For taraweeh, a specific intention is preferred.

12. Intention for Following an Imam (Muqtadi)

• The muqtadi (follower) must intend to follow the imam.
• The imam does not need to make an intention for leading, except when a woman is praying behind him outside of Jumu’ah, Eid, or Janaazah prayers.

13. Naming the Imam in Intention

• The follower does not need to name the imam; simply intending to follow “this imam” is sufficient.
• If the follower names the imam but later learns it was someone else, the prayer is invalid.

Rules Related to Facing the Qiblah

1. If a person is at a place where they do not know the direction of the qiblah and cannot ask anyone, they should think in their heart and face the direction they believe is correct. If they pray without considering the direction, their prayer is invalid. However, if they later learn that they prayed in the correct direction, their prayer remains valid. If they had the opportunity to ask someone but did not do so out of shyness, their prayer is invalid. In such cases, one should not hesitate to ask.

2. If a person follows their best judgment and later learns they faced the wrong direction, their prayer remains valid.

3. If a person realizes during prayer that they are facing the wrong direction, they must immediately turn towards the qiblah. Failure to do so invalidates the prayer.

4. It is permissible to perform salah inside the Ka’bah, and one may face any direction.

5. Both fard and nafl prayers are valid inside the Ka’bah.

6. If the qiblah is unknown and salah is performed in congregation, both the imam and followers must act based on their conviction. If a follower believes the imam is facing the wrong direction, their prayer behind that imam is invalid. They must pray separately according to their own conviction.

Method of Offering Fard Salah

1. Takbir (Opening)

   • Make the intention for salah and say Allahu Akbar while raising both hands up to the shoulders.
   • Men should raise their hands to the earlobes, while women should keep their hands within their headgear or scarf.
   • Place the right hand over the left on the chest.
   • Men should clasp their hands below the navel, grasping the left wrist with the right hand.

2. Recitation

   • Recite A‘udhu billah, Bismillah, and Surah Al-Fatihah.
   • After “Wa lad-daalleen”, say Ameen.
   • Recite another Surah after Bismillah.

3. Ruku (Bowing)

   • Say Allahu Akbar and bow.
   • Place hands on the knees with fingers spread apart (for men) or together (for women).
   • Recite “Subhaana Rabbiyal Azeem” three, five, or seven times.
   • Men should keep their arms away from the body, while women should keep them close.

4. Standing from Ruku

   • Say Sami‘a Allahu liman hamidah while rising.
   • Once upright, say Rabbana wa lakal hamd.

5. Sajdah (Prostration)

   • Say Allahu Akbar and go into sajdah.
   • First, place the knees, then the hands, followed by the forehead and nose.
   • Keep fingers and toes facing the qiblah.
   • Recite “Subhaana Rabbiyal A‘la” at least three times.
   • Men should keep their arms away from the sides, while women should keep them close.

6. Sitting Between Sajdahs

   • Say Allahu Akbar and sit.
   • Men should sit on the left foot with the right foot upright, while women should sit on their left buttock with both feet out to the right.
   • Say Allahu Akbar and perform the second sajdah.

7. Subsequent Raka‘ats

   • Stand up for the second raka‘at without using hands for support.
   • Repeat the recitations and postures.
   • After the second sajdah of the second raka‘at, sit for Tashahhud and recite At-Tahiyyat.
   • If the prayer has four raka‘ats, stand up for the third raka‘at after Tashahhud.

8. Final Sitting and Salaam

   • In the final sitting, recite At-Tahiyyat, Durood, and a supplication.
   • Turn to the right and say “As-salaamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullah”, then to the left and repeat.

Obligatory (Fard) Acts of Salah

1. Saying Allahu Akbar at the beginning.
2. Standing during the recitation.
3. Reciting a verse or Surah from the Quran.
4. Performing Ruku.
5. Performing two Sajdahs.
6. Sitting at the end for at least the duration of At-Tahiyyat.

Wajib (Necessary) Acts of Salah

1. Reciting Surah Al-Fatihah.
2. Reciting another Surah along with Al-Fatihah in the first two raka‘ats.
3. Performing each obligatory act in its proper place.
4. Standing and reciting Surah Al-Fatihah.
5. Going into Ruku and Sajdah.
6. Sitting after two raka‘ats.
7. Reciting At-Tahiyyat in both sittings.
8. Reciting Dua-e-Qunoot in Witr prayer.
9. Completing the salah with Salaam.
10. Performing all actions calmly, without haste.

Sunnah and Mustahab Acts in Salah

1. Raising hands at the start of salah (Sunnah).
2. Reciting Bismillah before Surah Al-Fatihah and before another Surah (Sunnah).
3. Placing both the forehead and nose on the ground in sajdah (Sunnah).
4. Sitting properly between the two sajdahs (Wajib).
5. Reciting Durood after At-Tahiyyat in the final sitting (Sunnah).
6. Looking at the spot of sajdah while standing, at the feet in ruku, at the nose in sajdah, and at the shoulders while making salaam (Mustahab).
7. Women should recite quietly, ensuring their voice reaches their own ears.

Invalidating and Correcting Salah

1. Missing a Fard act nullifies salah.
2. Omitting a Wajib act intentionally makes salah deficient and invalid; it must be repeated. If omitted unintentionally, Sajdah-e-Sahw can rectify it.
3. Reciting a Surah before Al-Fatihah requires repeating the salah. If done unintentionally, perform Sajdah-e-Sahw.
4. A minimum of three verses should be recited after Al-Fatihah.
5. If one does not sit properly between sajdahs, the prayer becomes incomplete.
6. Women should pray individually and not in congregation with men.
7. If Wudu breaks during salah, it must be redone, and the salah restarted.
8. Yawning should be controlled, and coughing should be subdued as much as possible.

Rules Related to Fard Salaat

1. Recitation Rules

• The “alif” of Aameen should be lengthened and recited properly.
• After Surah Al-Faatihah, any Surah from the Quran should be recited.
• If a person is traveling or has an urgent necessity, after Surah Al-Faatihah, they may recite any Surah.
• If not traveling:
  • In Fajr and Zuhr, one should recite any Surah from Surah Al-Hujurat to Surah Al-Burooj.
  • The Surah in the first rakaat of Fajr should be longer than the second.
  • In Asr and Isha, any Surah from Surah At-Tariq to Surah Al-Bayyina can be recited.
  • In Maghrib, any Surah from Surah Az-Zalzalah to the end of the Quran should be recited.
• In other prayers, Surahs of both rakaats should be similar in length, but a difference of one or two verses is acceptable.

2. Rules for Ruku and Sajdah

• The Imam should say “Sami’Allahu liman hamidah” when rising from ruku, while the muqtadi (follower) should say “Rabbana lakal hamd”.
• A person praying alone should recite both.
• When going into sajdah:
  • Place the knees first, then the hands, nose, and forehead.
  • The face should be between both hands, with fingers pointing toward the qiblah.
  • The toes should also be upright pointing toward the qiblah.
  • The stomach should be lifted away from the thighs (for men).
  • The space should be such that a small animal could pass underneath.

3. Recitation Loudness

• In Fajr, Maghrib, and Isha, the Imam should recite Surah Al-Faatihah and another Surah aloud.
• The one praying alone has a choice to recite aloud or softly.
• Sami’Allahu liman hamidah and all takbeers should be recited softly.
• In Zuhr and Asr, the Imam should only recite Sami’Allahu liman hamidah and takbeers aloud.
• The muqtadi should always recite softly, regardless of the prayer.

4. Dua After Salaat

• After completing fard salaat, both hands should be raised up to the chest, and dua should be made.
• If an imam, he should make dua for all followers.
• After the dua, hands should be passed over the face.
• Muqtadis can make their own duas or say Aameen to the imam’s dua.
• After prayers followed by sunnah salaat (e.g., Zuhr, Maghrib, Isha), duas should be brief.
• In Fajr and Asr, longer duas may be made.

5. Preferred Recitations After Fard Salaat

• Reciting the following is preferable:
  • Ayatul Kursi
  • Surah Al-Ikhlaas
  • Surah Al-Falaq
  • Surah An-Naas
  • SubhanAllah (33 times)
  • Alhamdulillah (33 times)
  • Allahu Akbar (34 times)
• If a sunnah prayer follows, these should be recited after the sunnah prayer.

6. Joining Jama’ah in Ruku

• If a person enters the masjid and finds the Imam in ruku, he must first stand and say Takbeer-e-Tahreema before going into ruku.
• Directly bowing into ruku without standing first invalidates the prayer.

Differences in Salaat Between Men and Women

1. Takbeer-e-Tahreema

• Men: Must raise their hands outside their shawl.
• Women: Must keep their hands inside their shawl and raise them to shoulder level.

2. Hand Positioning

• Men: Clasp hands below the navel.
• Women: Clasp hands on the chest.

3. Ruku Posture

• Men: Bow so that the back, head, and hips are in a straight line.
• Women: Bow slightly, enough for hands to reach the knees.

4. Sajdah Posture

• Men: Keep the stomach away from thighs and elbows lifted.
• Women: Keep the stomach close to thighs and elbows on the ground.

5. Sitting Position

• Men: Sit on the left leg, keeping the right toes upright.
• Women: Sit on the left buttock, with both legs folded to the right.

6. Recitation Loudness

• Men: Have the option to recite aloud in non-congregational prayers.
• Women: Must always recite softly, regardless of prayer type.

Rules Concerning Quran Recitation in Salaat

• Pronouncing every letter correctly is wajib (mandatory).
• If a person cannot pronounce correctly, they must practice.
  • If they neglect practice, their salaat is invalid.
  • If effort is made but they still struggle, they are excused.
• Reciting Surahs out of order is Makruh (disliked).
  • The second rakaat should have a later Surah than the first.
  • Repeating the same Surah unnecessarily is discouraged.

Acts That Nullify Salaat

1. Speaking intentionally or unintentionally.
2. Making unnecessary sounds like “Ahh,” “Ooh,” or crying aloud.
3. Clearing the throat unnecessarily (unless needed).
4. Replying to someone’s salaam with “Wa Alaykumus Salaam.”
5. Reading the Quran from a physical copy during prayer.
6. Turning the chest away from the Qiblah.
7. Eating or drinking, even a small particle.
8. Plaiting hair (for women) during prayer.
9. Pronouncing “Allahu Akbar” incorrectly, such as elongating “AaaAllah” or “Akbaaar.”

Makruh (Disliked) Acts in Salaat

1. Playing with clothes, jewellery, or body.
2. Cracking fingers or placing hands on hips.
3. Glancing sideways unnecessarily.
4. Squatting or sitting like a dog.
5. Replying to salaam by gestures.
6. Gathering clothes to avoid dirt.
7. Praying where people may distract you.
8. Praying in front of someone’s face.
9. Praying in clothes with pictures.
10. Praying when one urgently needs to relieve oneself.
11. Skipping a meal if food is ready and prayer time is ample.
12. Closing eyes in prayer (unless it improves concentration).

Salaat with Jama’aht (Congregation)

1. The Obligation of Salaat with Jama’aht

• Offering salaat with jama’aht is wajib according to some scholars and sunnah mu’akkadah according to others.
• This ruling will be discussed in more detail, Insha Allah.

2. Definition of Jama’aht

• Salaat with jama’ah means at least two people pray together.
• One person leads the prayer (imam), and the other follows (muqtadi).

3. Minimum Requirement for Jama’aht

• Jama’aht is valid if at least one person joins the imam, regardless of:
  • Gender (man or woman)
  • Social status (slave or free person)
  • Age (mature person or a child who has reached the age of understanding)
• However, for Jumu’ah and Eid prayers, at least three people (besides the imam) must be present.

4. Validity of Jama’aht in Nafl Salaat

• Jama’aht is not restricted to fard salaat; it is also valid for nafl salaat.
• Two people can pray nafl together in jama’aht, whether:
  • Both are praying nafl
  • The imam is praying fard, and the muqtadi is praying nafl
• However, it is makruh (disliked) to:
  • Make a habit of offering nafl salaat in jama’aht.
  • Have more than three people offering nafl salaat in jama’aht.

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The Virtues and Importance of Jama’at (Congregational Prayer)

Numerous authentic Ahadith emphasize the virtues and significance of performing Salah in Jama’at (congregation). If all of them were collected, they would form a large voluminous book. The key takeaway from these Ahadith is that Jama’at is essential for the perfection of Salah.

The Emphasis of Jama’at in the Sunnah

• The Prophet ﷺ never abandoned congregational Salah. Even when he was extremely ill and unable to walk unaided, he still attended the Masjid with the support of two people.
• He expressed severe displeasure towards those who neglected Jama’at and even contemplated strict measures against those who habitually skipped it.

Quranic Evidence for Jama’at

Some scholars have cited the following verse as evidence for congregational prayer:

“And bow down (in prayer) with those who bow down.” (Al-Baqarah: 43)

While some commentators interpret “bow down” (ruku’) as a reference to humility rather than a literal command for congregational Salah, this verse remains an important reference.

Ahadith on the Virtues of Jama’at

1. Increased Reward

   • Ibn Umar (RA) narrates that the Prophet ﷺ said:
     “Offering Salah with Jama’at is 27 times more rewarding than praying alone.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

2. Larger Congregations are More Beloved to Allah

   • The Prophet ﷺ said:
     “It is better to pray with one other person than alone, better with two than one, and the larger the Jama’at, the more beloved it is to Allah.” (Abu Dawood, Nasai)

3. The Reward of Walking to the Masjid

   • Anas bin Malik (RA) narrates that the Banu Salimah tribe wanted to relocate closer to the Masjid. The Prophet ﷺ advised against it, saying:
     “Do you not consider that every step you take towards the Masjid earns you a reward?”
     This Hadith teaches that those who live far from the Masjid and still make the effort to attend receive extra rewards. (Muslim)

4. Waiting for Salah is Like Being in Salah

   • The Prophet ﷺ said:
     “The time spent waiting for Salah is counted as if one is engaged in Salah.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

5. Special Reward for Fajr and Isha in Jama’at

   • Uthman (RA) narrates that the Prophet ﷺ said:
     “The one who prays Isha in Jama’at gets the reward of spending half the night in worship, and the one who prays both Isha and Fajr in Jama’at gets the reward of worshipping the entire night.” (Muslim)

6. Severe Warning for Neglecting Jama’at

   • Abu Hurayrah (RA) reports that the Prophet ﷺ said:
     “I considered ordering firewood to be gathered and then setting fire to the homes of those who do not attend the congregational prayer.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
   • In another narration:
     “If it were not for the women and children, I would have ordered their houses to be burned down.” (Muslim)

7. Shaytaan Targets Those Who Pray Alone

   • Abu Darda (RA) narrates that the Prophet ﷺ said:
     “If there are only three people in a town or desert and they do not pray in Jama’at, Shaytaan will overpower them. O Abu Darda! Always pray in Jama’at, for the wolf only attacks the stray sheep.” (Abu Dawood)

8. Salah is Not Accepted Without Jama’at (Without Valid Excuse)

   • Ibn Abbas (RA) narrates that the Prophet ﷺ said:
     “Whoever hears the Adhan and does not come to Jama’at without a valid excuse, his Salah is not accepted.” (Ibn Majah)
   • The Sahabah asked, “What is a valid excuse?” The Prophet ﷺ replied: “Fear or sickness.”

9. A Companion Reprimanded for Missing Jama’at

   • Mihjan (RA) reported that once the Prophet ﷺ saw him sitting while the congregational prayer was taking place. The Prophet ﷺ asked:
     “O Mihjan! Are you not a Muslim?”
     Mihjan explained that he had already prayed at home, but the Prophet ﷺ said:
     “When you come to the Masjid and find the Jama’at in progress, join them, even if you have already prayed.” (Abu Dawood)

Sayings of the Sahabah on the Importance of Jama’at

The Companions of the Prophet ﷺ placed immense importance on praying in Jama’at and considered its abandonment as a sign of hypocrisy.

1. Aisha (RA) on the Prophet’s Final Illness

   • Even in his final illness, the Prophet ﷺ instructed Abu Bakr (RA) to lead the Salah. When he felt slightly better, he still went to the Masjid, despite needing support to walk.

2. Umar (RA) on Prioritizing Jama’at

   • Umar (RA) once noticed that Sulayman bin Abi Haythama missed Fajr in Jama’at. When he asked his mother, she said:
     “He had been praying all night and fell asleep at Fajr.”
     Umar (RA) replied:
     “I would rather pray Fajr in Jama’at than spend the whole night in prayer.” (Muwatta Imam Malik)

3. Ibn Mas’ud (RA) on the Habit of the Sahabah

   • “The only people who skipped Jama’at in our time were known hypocrites or those who were severely ill.”
   • Even the sick would come supported by two people to attend Jama’at.

4. Abu Hurayrah (RA) on Leaving the Masjid After Adhan

   • Once, a man left the Masjid without praying after hearing the Adhan. Abu Hurayrah (RA) said:
     “This man has disobeyed the command of the Prophet ﷺ.” (Muslim)

5. Abu Darda (RA) Expressing Concern

   • Abu Darda (RA) once angrily said:
     “The only thing left that I see of Islam in people is their Jama’at Salah. If they abandon this, they have abandoned Islam.”

6. Serious Warning from Ibn Abbas (RA)

   • Mujahid once asked Ibn Abbas (RA) about a man who fasts all day and prays all night but does not attend Jama’at or Jumu’ah.
     Ibn Abbas (RA) replied:
     “He will enter Hell.” (Tirmidhi)

The Benefits and Wisdom Behind Jama’at

Shah Waliullah (RA) beautifully summarized the wisdom behind Jama’at:

1. Strengthening the Habit of Salah

   • Praying in congregation makes Salah a natural, unshakable habit.

2. Encouraging Correction and Improvement

   • When people pray together, they can learn from each other and correct mistakes.

3. Preventing Negligence

   • It ensures that those neglecting Salah are recognized and reminded.

4. Attracting Divine Mercy

   • A group of worshippers gathering for Salah invites Allah’s blessings and acceptance.

5. Promoting Unity and Brotherhood

   • Muslims meeting daily in the Masjid strengthens the bonds of faith and brotherhood.

6. Displaying the Strength of Islam

   • A large gathering of worshippers demonstrates the unity and power of Islam.

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Conditions That Make Jama’at Wajib

1. To Be a Male

Jama’at is not wajib on women.

2. To Be Mature

Jama’at is not wajib on children who have not reached the age of puberty.

3. To Be a Free Person

Jama’at is not wajib on a slave.

4. To Be in One’s Senses

Jama’at is not wajib on a person who is intoxicated, unconscious, or a lunatic.

5. To Be Free from Excuses

Jama’at is not wajib if valid excuses exist. However, praying with jama’at is still recommended and carries reward. The excuses for missing jama’at are fourteen:

Excuses for Missing Jama’at

1. Lack of sufficient clothing to cover one’s ‘awrah (private area).
2. Excessive mud on the road making walking extremely difficult.
   • Imam Abu Yusuf (rahmatullahi alayh) once asked Imam Abu Hanifah (rahmatullahi alayh) about attending jama’at in such conditions. He replied that he disliked abandoning the jama’at.
3. Heavy rain.
   • Imam Muhammad (rahmatullahi alayh) wrote in his Muwatta that missing jama’at is permissible in such cases, though attending is preferable.
4. Extreme cold that could cause illness or worsen a sickness.
5. Fear of theft of wealth or possessions.
6. Fear of encountering an enemy.
7. Fear of meeting a creditor from whom harm is expected (if unable to repay the debt).
   • If one can repay, avoiding jama’at is not permissible.
8. Extremely dark night making the road unsafe.
   • If he has means to see the road, he should not miss jama’at.
9. Severe sandstorm at night.
10. Caring for a sick person who might be harmed or disturbed if left alone.
11. Hunger at a time when food is ready or being served, causing lack of focus in salah.
12. Urgent need to relieve oneself.
13. Fear of missing a departing caravan.
    • Modern application: If a train departs frequently, one should still attend jama’at unless urgency exists.
14. Being unable to walk due to illness, blindness, or amputation.
    • A blind person who can walk easily should still attend jama’at.

Prerequisites for the Validity of Jama’at

1. Islam

Jama’at is not valid behind a non-Muslim (kafir).

2. To Be in One’s Senses

Jama’at is not valid if led by a person who is intoxicated, unconscious, or insane.

3. Intention of Following the Imam

The muqtadi (follower) must intend to follow the imam in a specific salah.

4. The Place of the Imam and Muqtadi Must Be the Same

This can be:

• Physically same place (e.g., both in a masjid or house).
• Connected place in principle (e.g., continuous rows even across a bridge).

Rules Related to Place

a) If the muqtadi is on the roof of the masjid and the imam is inside, the jama’at is valid.
b) If there is an open space large enough for two rows (saffs) between imam and muqtadi, jama’at is invalid.
c) If a river, large pond, or public road separates them with no connected rows, jama’at is invalid.
d) If a river or road separates two rows of muqtadis, the row on the other side cannot follow the imam.
e) A person on foot cannot follow someone on a mount (e.g., horse, camel), unless both are on the same animal.

5. Imam and Muqtadi Must Be Performing the Same Salah

• If imam is praying Zuhr and muqtadi intends Asr, jama’at is invalid.
• If imam is performing qada for yesterday’s Zuhr and muqtadi intends today’s Zuhr, jama’at is invalid.
• If the imam prays Fard, but muqtadi prays Nafl, jama’at is valid.
• If the imam prays Nafl, but muqtadi prays Taraweeh, jama’at is invalid.

6. The Salah of the Imam Must Be Valid

If the imam’s salah becomes invalid (e.g., due to impurity or lack of wudu), all muqtadis’ salah also becomes invalid.

• If the imam realizes this later, he must inform the muqtadis so they can repeat their salah.

7. The Muqtadi Should Not Stand Ahead of the Imam

• He should stand in line or behind the imam.
• The heels are considered for positioning, not the toes.

8. The Muqtadi Must Know the Imam’s Movements

• He must be able to see or hear the imam or a mukabbir (person repeating takbir in large congregations).
• If a barrier exists (e.g., wall, curtain), jama’at is valid only if he can still follow the imam’s movements.

9. The Muqtadi Must Be with the Imam in All Postures (Except Qira’at)

• He may move with the imam, slightly after, or even slightly before, as long as he completes the posture with the imam.
• If he misses a posture completely (e.g., imam does ruku, but he remains standing), his salah is invalid.

10. The Muqtadi Must Be Equal or Inferior to the Imam in Status

Valid Cases

a) One who can stand may follow an imam who must sit due to illness.
b) One who has made wudu/ghusl may follow an imam who performed tayammum.
c) One who washed his limbs may follow an imam who made masah (wiped over socks or bandage).
d) A ma’zur (person with a chronic excuse) may follow another ma’zur if their condition is the same.
e) An ummi (person unable to recite properly) may follow another ummi if no qari (qualified reciter) is available.
f) Women and children may follow a mature male imam.
g) A woman may follow another woman in salah.
h) An immature child may follow another immature male.
i) A person praying Nafl may follow someone praying Fard.
j) A person praying Qasm (oath-related salah) may follow someone praying Nafl.
k) A person praying Nazr (vowed salah) may follow another if their vows are identical.

Invalid Cases

a) A mature person cannot follow an immature imam.
b) A man cannot follow a female imam.
c) A hermaphrodite cannot lead or follow another hermaphrodite.
d) A woman uncertain about her haidh (menstruation) period cannot lead another woman.
e) A hermaphrodite cannot follow a woman due to the possibility of being a man.
f) A sane person cannot follow an imam who is insane, intoxicated, or unconscious.
g) A pure person (taahir) cannot follow a ma’zur (one excused due to chronic impurity).
h) A qari (qualified reciter) cannot follow an ummi (one who cannot recite properly).

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The Rules of Jama’at

1. Jama’at is a prerequisite for the Salah of Jumu’ah and the two Eids. These prayers are not valid when offered alone.

2. Jama’at is Wajib for the five daily prayers unless there is a valid excuse. It is Sunnah Mu’akkadah for Taraweeh, even if the entire Quran has already been recited in Jama’at. It is also Sunnah Mu’akkadah for Salah al-Kusuf (eclipse prayer). Witr in Ramadan is Mustahab in Jama’at, but outside of Ramadan, regularly praying Witr in Jama’at is Makruh Tanzihi. If done occasionally without regularity, it is not Makruh.

   • If Salah al-Kusuf or other Nafl prayers are offered with the same formality as Fard Salah (i.e., with Adhan, Iqamah, or by gathering people), it is Makruh Tahrimi.
   • If a few people pray a Nafl Salah in Jama’at without Adhan, Iqamah, or formally gathering others, then it is permissible but should not become a habit.

3. A second Jama’at for Fard Salah is Makruh Tahrimi if the following four conditions exist:

   • The Masjid is a local Masjid (Mahalli Masjid), not on a main road, where the Imam and regular worshippers are appointed.
   • The first Jama’at was held with a loud Adhan and Iqamah.
   • The first Jama’at was led by locals who manage the Masjid.
   • The second Jama’at is conducted in the same place and with the same care as the first one.

   According to Imam Abu Yusuf (رحمه الله), if the second Jama’at is conducted at a different place inside the Masjid, it will not be Makruh. However, according to Imam Abu Hanifah (رحمه الله), it remains Makruh regardless of the location.

   • If the second Jama’at is held in a house, it is not Makruh.
   • If any of the four conditions are missing, the second Jama’at is not Makruh.
   • If a Masjid is on a main road, even a third or fourth Jama’at is permissible.

   Note: While the common practice follows Imam Abu Yusuf (رحمه الله), Imam Abu Hanifah’s (رحمه الله) opinion is also strongly supported. Due to negligence in religious obligations, it is better to discourage a second Jama’at to prevent people from intentionally missing the first Jama’at.

Rules for the Imam and the Muqtadi

1. The Muqtadis (followers) should appoint the most qualified person as the Imam. If there are multiple qualified individuals, the majority’s preference should be followed. Appointing a less capable Imam when a more qualified person is present is abandoning the Sunnah.

2. The most qualified Imam is one who:

   • Has deep knowledge of Salah rulings.
   • Is free from outward signs of immorality (Fisq).
   • Can recite the Quran correctly.
   • If multiple people meet these conditions, preference is given in this order:
     • One who follows proper Tajweed.
     • One who is most pious.
     • Elderly person.
     • Most courteous.
     • Most handsome.
     • Most noble.
     • Has the best voice.
     • Well-dressed person.
     • Has the largest head (if proportionate to his body).
     • A resident (Muqeem) is preferred over a traveler (Musafir).
     • A free person is preferred over a former slave.
     • If both made Tayammum, the one who did so for minor impurity (Hadath Asghar) is preferred over the one who did so for major impurity (Hadath Akbar), though opinions differ.

3. If Salah is conducted at home, the homeowner has the right to lead unless he is ignorant of the rulings.

4. An appointed Imam in a Masjid has the exclusive right to lead the prayer unless he allows someone else.

5. The Qadi (Islamic judge) has the exclusive right to lead Salah in his presence.

6. It is Makruh Tahrimi to lead the Salah without the approval of the people, unless the Imam is the most qualified.

7. A Fasiq (open sinner) or Bid’ati (innovator) should not be appointed Imam, unless no other option is available. If removing them causes division, following them is not Makruh.

8. It is Makruh Tanzihi to appoint as Imam:

   • A slave.
   • A villager.
   • A blind person unaware of purity rules.
   • Someone with poor night vision.
   • A child born from Zina (illicit relations), unless he is knowledgeable and accepted by the people.
   • A young, beardless youth or a person lacking intellect.

9. The Muqtadi must follow the Imam in all Fard and Wajib acts of Salah but not in Sunnah acts.

   • If the Imam is Shafi’i and raises his hands in Ruku, Hanafi followers do not have to do the same.
   • If the Shafi’i Imam recites Qunut in Fajr, Hanafi followers do not have to recite it.
   • In Witr, since Qunut is Wajib for Hanafis, if the Imam is Shafi’i and recites Qunut after Ruku, Hanafi followers should also recite it after Ruku.

10. The Imam should not recite excessively long Surahs, nor prolong Ruku and Sujood beyond the recommended length. He must consider the weakest among the congregation.

Jama’at Formation and Positioning

1. A single male Muqtadi stands to the right of the Imam, slightly behind him.
2. Two or more male Muqtadis should stand behind the Imam.
3. If a latecomer (Masbuq) joins, the first Muqtadi should step back to form a row behind the Imam.
4. A female Muqtadi should stand behind the Imam.
5. If there are men, boys, and women, the order of rows should be:
   • Men in the first rows.
   • Boys behind the men.
   • Women behind the boys.
   • Young girls behind the women.
6. The Imam should straighten the rows and ensure there are no gaps.
7. It is Makruh to stand alone in a row; the person should pull another back if necessary.
8. A new row should not be started unless the first row is full.
9. A man leading women in an isolated place without another man or Mahram woman present is Makruh Tahrimi.

Rules for Latecomers (Masbuq) and Those Who Miss Raka’at (Laahiq)

1. A Laahiq (someone who misses part of Salah after joining) must complete missed Raka’ats before continuing.
2. A Masbuq (someone who joins late) should complete missed Raka’ats after the Imam’s Salaam.
3. The Masbuq should recite Qira’at in the Raka’ats he makes up and perform Sajdah Sahw if necessary.
4. When making up Raka’ats, the order should be maintained:
   • First complete Raka’ats with recitation.
   • Then complete Raka’ats without recitation.
   • Follow the sitting positions accordingly.