Why Allah Commanded Salah to the Believers
The Divine Purpose
Allah says in the Quran:
وَمَا خَلَقْتُ الْجِنَّ وَالْإِنسَ إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُونِ
Wa ma khalaqtu al-jinna wal-insa illa liya'budun
"And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me."
- Quran 51:56
Salah is the most direct and purest form of worship. It is the practical manifestation of our purpose of creation - to worship Allah alone.
The Reasons Behind the Divine Command:
1. Remembrance of Allah
وَأَقِمِ الصَّلَاةَ لِذِكْرِي
Wa aqimi as-salata li-dhikri
"And establish prayer for My remembrance." (Quran 20:14)
Salah prevents us from forgetting our Creator in the midst of worldly distractions. Five times daily, we are called back to remember Allah.
2. Prevention from Evil
إِنَّ الصَّلَاةَ تَنْهَىٰ عَنِ الْفَحْشَاءِ وَالْمُنكَرِ
Inna as-salata tanha 'an al-fahsha' wal-munkar
"Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing." (Quran 29:45)
The Salaf explained: When you stand before Allah five times daily in complete submission, your soul is trained to avoid sin and seek righteousness.
3. A Criterion Between Belief and Disbelief
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
"The covenant between us and them is prayer; whoever abandons it has committed disbelief."
- Jami' at-Tirmidhi 2621, authenticated by Al-Albani
"Between a man and disbelief and polytheism is the abandonment of prayer."
- Sahih Muslim 82
4. The First Matter to be Judged
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"The first matter that the slave will be brought to account for on the Day of Judgment is the prayer. If it is sound, then the rest of his deeds will be sound. And if it is bad, then the rest of his deeds will be bad."
- Sunan al-Tirmidhi 413, authenticated by Al-Albani
5. Light and Purification
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"Prayer is light."
- Sahih Muslim 223
"If there was a river at the door of anyone of you and he took a bath in it five times a day, would you notice any dirt on him?" They said, "Not a trace of dirt would be left." The Prophet (ﷺ) added, "That is the example of the five prayers with which Allah blots out evil deeds."
- Sahih al-Bukhari 528
Prayer: A Command to All Prophets
Salah was not unique to the Muslim Ummah. Allah commanded prayer to every prophet and every nation before us. While the specific format may have differed, the core act of bowing and prostrating before Allah was consistent.
🕌Prophet Adam (ﷺ)
Adam was the first human and the first prophet. Islamic scholars mention that when Adam was forgiven after eating from the tree, he was taught to prostrate to Allah in gratitude. This act of prostration (sujud) became part of worship from the very beginning of humanity.
From the teachings of the Salaf:
Ibn Kathir mentioned that Adam learned the timings of prayer from the angels, and this knowledge was passed down through his righteous children.
🕌Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) (ﷺ)
رَبِّ اجْعَلْنِي مُقِيمَ الصَّلَاةِ وَمِن ذُرِّيَّتِي
Rabbi aj'alni muqeema as-salati wa min dhurriyyati
"My Lord, make me an establisher of prayer, and [many] from my descendants." (Quran 14:40)
Ibrahim (ﷺ) prayed for himself and his offspring to establish prayer. The Kaaba that he built with his son Ismail became the Qiblah for prayer. His legacy of prayer continues in his descendants through both lines - including Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
🕌Prophet Ismail (Ishmael) (ﷺ)
وَكَانَ يَأْمُرُ أَهْلَهُ بِالصَّلَاةِ وَالزَّكَاةِ وَكَانَ عِندَ رَبِّهِ مَرْضِيًّا
Wa kana ya'muru ahlahu bis-salati waz-zakati wa kana 'inda rabbihi mardiyya
"And he used to enjoin on his people prayer and zakah and was to his Lord pleasing." (Quran 19:55)
Ismail (ﷺ) was known for commanding his family to establish prayer. He settled in Makkah and his descendants continued the tradition of prayer at the Kaaba.
🕌Prophet Musa (Moses) (ﷺ)
وَأَقِمِ الصَّلَاةَ لِذِكْرِي
"And establish prayer for My remembrance." (Quran 20:14)
This command was given directly to Musa (ﷺ) during his encounter with Allah at Mount Sinai. Allah commanded him to establish prayer as a means of remembrance.
وَأَوْحَيْنَا إِلَىٰ مُوسَىٰ وَأَخِيهِ أَن تَبَوَّآ لِقَوْمِكُمَا بِمِصْرَ بُيُوتًا وَاجْعَلُوا بُيُوتَكُمْ قِبْلَةً وَأَقِيمُوا الصَّلَاةَ
"And We inspired to Moses and his brother, 'Settle your people in Egypt in houses and make your houses [facing the] qiblah and establish prayer.'" (Quran 10:87)
🕌Prophet Isa (Jesus) (ﷺ)
وَجَعَلَنِي مُبَارَكًا أَيْنَ مَا كُنتُ وَأَوْصَانِي بِالصَّلَاةِ وَالزَّكَاةِ مَا دُمْتُ حَيًّا
Wa ja'alani mubarakan ayna ma kuntu wa awsani bis-salati waz-zakati ma dumtu hayya
"And He has made me blessed wherever I am and has enjoined upon me prayer and zakah as long as I remain alive." (Quran 19:31)
These were among the first words Prophet Isa (ﷺ) spoke as a miracle while still in the cradle. Even as an infant, he declared that Allah had commanded him to establish prayer throughout his life.
🕌Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) - The Final Command
The Mi'raj - When Salah Was Prescribed:
On the night of the Mi'raj (ascension), the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was taken beyond the seven heavens to meet Allah. There, Allah prescribed fifty prayers upon the believers. After consultation with Musa (ﷺ), who knew the nature of people from experience with Bani Israel, the Prophet (ﷺ) returned several times until it was reduced to five. However, Allah decreed:
"They are five, but they are [equal to] fifty in reward, for the decree with Me does not change."
- Sahih al-Bukhari 349, Sahih Muslim 162
The Uniqueness of This Command:
All other commandments were sent down through the angel Jibril. But Salah was so important that it was commanded directly to the Prophet (ﷺ) by Allah, without any intermediary, in the highest of heavens.
Other Prophets Mentioned in the Quran
وَجَعَلْنَاهُمْ أَئِمَّةً يَهْدُونَ بِأَمْرِنَا وَأَوْحَيْنَا إِلَيْهِمْ فِعْلَ الْخَيْرَاتِ وَإِقَامَ الصَّلَاةِ وَإِيتَاءَ الزَّكَاةِ
"And We made them leaders guiding by Our command. And We inspired to them the doing of good deeds, establishment of prayer, and giving of zakah." (Quran 21:73)
This verse refers to Ibrahim, Ishaq, and Ya'qub (ﷺ). Allah made it clear that establishing prayer was part of the divine revelation to all prophets.
Teaching of the Salaf on Prayer Through the Ages
Imam Ibn Kathir said: "Prayer has been legislated in every religion, though the manner and number may have differed. The essence of standing before Allah in submission is universal to all prophets."
Imam Ibn Taymiyyah explained: "The people of every prophet were commanded to pray, for it is the most fundamental act of worship that directly connects the servant to the Creator."
Ibn al-Qayyim wrote: "Prayer is the pole of the religion. Every prophet from Adam to Muhammad established it, though the Ummah of Muhammad was given the most complete and perfect form."
The 9 Conditions of Salah
1. Islam
Being a Muslim is the first condition.
2. Sanity (Aql)
Being of sound mind and intellect.
3. Discernment (Tamyeez)
Ability to distinguish right from wrong.
4. Purification from Impurity (Hadath)
Having wudu (ablution) or ghusl (ritual bath) when required.
5. Removal of Impurity (Najaasah)
Ensuring body, clothes, and place of prayer are clean.
6. Covering the Awrah
Proper modest covering. For men: navel to knees. For women: entire body except face and hands.
7. Entering Prayer Time
Praying after the time for that prayer has begun.
8. Facing the Qiblah
Facing the direction of the Kaaba in Makkah.
9. Intention (Niyyah)
Intending to pray in your heart (not spoken out loud).
The 14 Pillars of Salah
1. Qiyam (Standing) - for those who are able
2. Takbiratul-Ihram - Saying "Allahu Akbar" to begin
3. Reciting Al-Fatihah - In every rak'ah
4. Ruku' (Bowing) - Bending with hands on knees
5. Rising from Ruku'
6. Standing upright after Ruku'
7. Sujud (Prostration) - Prostrating on seven body parts
8. Rising from Sujud
9. Sitting between two prostrations
10. Tranquility in all pillars - Calmness in each position
11. Final Tashahhud - Sitting and reciting At-Tahiyyat
12. Sitting for final Tashahhud
13. Sending blessings on the Prophet (ﷺ)
14. Tasleem - Saying the salams to conclude
Step-by-Step Prayer Instructions
1. Takbiratul-Ihram (Opening Takbir)
- • Stand facing the Qiblah
- • Raise your hands to shoulder or ear level with palms facing forward
- • Say: "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest)
- • Place your right hand over your left hand on your chest
2. Opening Duas (Thana) - Optional but Highly Recommended
The Prophet (ﷺ) used different opening duas. Choose any of the following authentic options:
Option 1 - Most Common (Sahih)
سُبْحَانَكَ اللَّهُمَّ وَبِحَمْدِكَ، وَتَبَارَكَ اسْمُكَ، وَتَعَالَى جَدُّكَ، وَلَا إِلَهَ غَيْرُكَ
Subhanakallahumma wa bihamdika, wa tabarakasmuka, wa ta'ala jadduka, wa la ilaha ghayruk
Glory be to You, O Allah, and praise be to You. Blessed is Your Name and Exalted is Your Majesty. There is no deity worthy of worship except You.
Source: Sahih - Narrated by Abu Sa'eed al-Khudri (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah)
Option 2 - Longer Version (Authentic)
اللَّهُمَّ بَاعِدْ بَيْنِي وَبَيْنَ خَطَايَايَ كَمَا بَاعَدْتَ بَيْنَ الْمَشْرِقِ وَالْمَغْرِبِ، اللَّهُمَّ نَقِّنِي مِنْ خَطَايَايَ كَمَا يُنَقَّى الثَّوْبُ الأَبْيَضُ مِنَ الدَّنَسِ، اللَّهُمَّ اغْسِلْنِي مِنْ خَطَايَايَ بِالْمَاءِ وَالثَّلْجِ وَالْبَرَدِ
Allahumma ba'id bayni wa bayna khatayaya kama ba'adta baynal-mashriqi wal-maghrib. Allahumma naqqini min khatayaya kama yunaqqath-thawbul-abyadu minad-danas. Allahum-maghsilni min khatayaya bil-ma'i wath-thalji wal-barad
O Allah, separate me from my sins as You have separated the East from the West. O Allah, cleanse me of my sins as a white garment is cleansed of filth. O Allah, wash away my sins with water, snow, and hail.
Source: Sahih Bukhari (744) and Sahih Muslim (598) - The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say this in obligatory prayers
Option 3 - For Night Prayer/Tahajjud (Authentic)
اللَّهُمَّ رَبَّ جِبْرَائِيلَ وَمِيكَائِيلَ وَإِسْرَافِيلَ، فَاطِرَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ، عَالِمَ الْغَيْبِ وَالشَّهَادَةِ، أَنْتَ تَحْكُمُ بَيْنَ عِبَادِكَ فِيمَا كَانُوا فِيهِ يَخْتَلِفُونَ، اهْدِنِي لِمَا اخْتُلِفَ فِيهِ مِنَ الْحَقِّ بِإِذْنِكَ، إِنَّكَ تَهْدِي مَنْ تَشَاءُ إِلَى صِرَاطٍ مُسْتَقِيمٍ
Allahumma Rabba Jibra'ila wa Mika'ila wa Israfil, Fatiras-samawati wal-ard, 'Alimal-ghaybi wash-shahadah, Anta tahkumu bayna 'ibadika fima kanu fihi yakhtalifun, ihdini limakh-tulifa fihi minal-haqqi bi'idhnik, innaka tahdi man tasha'u ila siratin mustaqim
O Allah, Lord of Jibril, Mika'il and Israfil, Creator of the heavens and the earth, Knower of the unseen and the seen, You judge between Your servants concerning that wherein they differ. Guide me to the truth by Your leave, in that which they differ, for indeed You guide whom You will to the Straight Path.
Source: Sahih Muslim (770) - The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say this when he stood up to pray at night (Tahajjud)
3. Ta'awwudh and Bismillah
أَعُوذُ بِاللهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ
A'udhu billahi minash-shaytanir-rajeem
I seek refuge in Allah from Satan, the accursed.
بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ
Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Raheem
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
4. Recite Surah Al-Fatihah
This is obligatory in every rak'ah.
ٱلْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ ٱلْعَـٰلَمِينَ ٱلرَّحْمَـٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ مَـٰلِكِ يَوْمِ ٱلدِّينِ إِيَّاكَ نَعْبُدُ وَإِيَّاكَ نَسْتَعِينُ ٱهْدِنَا ٱلصِّرَٰطَ ٱلْمُسْتَقِيمَ صِرَٰطَ ٱلَّذِينَ أَنْعَمْتَ عَلَيْهِمْ غَيْرِ ٱلْمَغْضُوبِ عَلَيْهِمْ وَلَا ٱلضَّآلِّينَ
[Translation] Praise be to Allah, Lord of 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 to the straight path. The path of those upon whom You have bestowed favor, not of those who have evoked [Your] anger or of those who are astray.
Say: Ameen (softly)
5. Recite Additional Surah or Verses
After Al-Fatihah, recite any portion from the Quran (recommended in first two rak'ahs)
6. Ruku' (Bowing)
- • Raise hands and say: "Allahu Akbar"
- • Bow down with back straight and hands on knees
- • Say at least once (recommended 3 or more times):
Basic Dhikr (Minimum - At least once)
سُبْحَانَ رَبِّيَ الْعَظِيمِ
Subhana Rabbiyal-Adheem
Glory be to my Lord, the Most Great.
Source: Sahih - Obligatory minimum. Say 3 times for Sunnah.
Additional Dhikr Option 1 (Highly Recommended)
سُبْحَانَ رَبِّيَ الْعَظِيمِ وَبِحَمْدِهِ
Subhana Rabbiyal-Adheem wa bihamdih
Glory be to my Lord, the Most Great, and with His praise.
Source: Sahih - Adding "wa bihamdih" increases the reward
Additional Dhikr Option 2 (For longer prayers)
سُبْحَانَكَ اللَّهُمَّ رَبَّنَا وَبِحَمْدِكَ، اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي
Subhanakallahumma Rabbana wa bihamdik, Allahum-maghfir li
Glory be to You, O Allah, our Lord, and with Your praise. O Allah, forgive me.
Source: Sahih Bukhari (794) and Sahih Muslim (484) - The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say this frequently in his Ruku' and Sujud
Additional Dhikr Option 3 (Complete version)
سُبُّوحٌ قُدُّوسٌ رَبُّ الْمَلَائِكَةِ وَالرُّوحِ
Subboohun Quddoosun Rabbul-mala'ikati war-rooh
Most Glorious, Most Holy, Lord of the angels and the Spirit.
Source: Sahih Muslim (487) - The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say this in his Ruku' and Sujud
7. Rising from Ruku'
While Rising (Obligatory)
سَمِعَ اللهُ لِمَنْ حَمِدَهُ
Sami'Allahu liman hamidah
Allah hears those who praise Him.
Source: Sahih - Obligatory to say while rising from Ruku'
When Standing Upright - Basic (Obligatory)
رَبَّنَا وَلَكَ الْحَمْدُ
Rabbana wa lakal-hamd
Our Lord, all praise is for You.
Source: Sahih Bukhari and Muslim - Basic obligatory statement
Additional Dua Option 1 (Highly Recommended)
رَبَّنَا وَلَكَ الْحَمْدُ حَمْدًا كَثِيرًا طَيِّبًا مُبَارَكًا فِيهِ
Rabbana wa lakal-hamdu hamdan katheeran tayyiban mubarakan feeh
Our Lord, to You belongs all praise, an abundant, beautiful and blessed praise.
Source: Sahih Bukhari (799) - A man said this and the Prophet (ﷺ) said he saw thirty-some angels racing to write it down
Additional Dua Option 2 (Complete version)
رَبَّنَا لَكَ الْحَمْدُ مِلْءَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمِلْءَ الْأَرْضِ وَمِلْءَ مَا شِئْتَ مِنْ شَيْءٍ بَعْدُ
Rabbana lakal-hamdu mil'as-samawati wa mil'al-ardi wa mil'a ma shi'ta min shay'in ba'd
Our Lord, to You belongs all praise, filling the heavens, filling the earth, and filling whatever else You will.
Source: Sahih Muslim (477) - The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say this
Additional Dua Option 3 (Extended version)
رَبَّنَا لَكَ الْحَمْدُ مِلْءَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمِلْءَ الْأَرْضِ وَمِلْءَ مَا شِئْتَ مِنْ شَيْءٍ بَعْدُ، أَهْلَ الثَّنَاءِ وَالْمَجْدِ، أَحَقُّ مَا قَالَ الْعَبْدُ، وَكُلُّنَا لَكَ عَبْدٌ، اللَّهُمَّ لَا مَانِعَ لِمَا أَعْطَيْتَ، وَلَا مُعْطِيَ لِمَا مَنَعْتَ، وَلَا يَنْفَعُ ذَا الْجَدِّ مِنْكَ الْجَدُّ
Rabbana lakal-hamdu mil'as-samawati wa mil'al-ardi wa mil'a ma shi'ta min shay'in ba'd. Ahlath-thana'i wal-majd, ahaqqu ma qalal-'abd, wa kulluna laka 'abd. Allahumma la mani'a lima a'tayt, wa la mu'tiya lima mana't, wa la yanfa'u dhal-jaddi minkal-jadd
Our Lord, to You belongs all praise, filling the heavens, filling the earth, and filling whatever else You will. You are the most deserving of praise and glory, the truest thing a servant can say, and we are all Your servants. O Allah, there is none who can withhold what You give, and none can give what You withhold, and no wealth or majesty can benefit anyone, for all wealth and majesty belong to You.
Source: Sahih Muslim (477) - Complete version the Prophet (ﷺ) used to say
8. First Sujud (Prostration)
⭐ IMPORTANT: The Closest Position to Allah
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "The closest that a servant is to his Lord is when he is in prostration, so make abundant supplication therein." (Sahih Muslim 482). Sujud is the best time to make dua for all your needs!
- • Say: "Allahu Akbar" and go down to prostration
- • Prostrate on 7 body parts: forehead & nose, both palms, both knees, toes of both feet
- • Say at least once (recommended 3 or more times):
Basic Dhikr (Minimum - At least once)
سُبْحَانَ رَبِّيَ الأَعْلَى
Subhana Rabbiyal-A'la
Glory be to my Lord, the Most High.
Source: Sahih - Obligatory minimum. Say 3 times for Sunnah.
Additional Dhikr Option 1 (Highly Recommended)
سُبْحَانَ رَبِّيَ الأَعْلَى وَبِحَمْدِهِ
Subhana Rabbiyal-A'la wa bihamdih
Glory be to my Lord, the Most High, and with His praise.
Source: Sahih - Adding "wa bihamdih" increases the reward
Additional Dhikr Option 2 (For longer prayers)
سُبْحَانَكَ اللَّهُمَّ رَبَّنَا وَبِحَمْدِكَ، اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي
Subhanakallahumma Rabbana wa bihamdik, Allahum-maghfir li
Glory be to You, O Allah, our Lord, and with Your praise. O Allah, forgive me.
Source: Sahih Bukhari (794) and Sahih Muslim (484) - The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say this frequently in his Ruku' and Sujud
Additional Dhikr Option 3 (Complete version)
سُبُّوحٌ قُدُّوسٌ رَبُّ الْمَلَائِكَةِ وَالرُّوحِ
Subboohun Quddoosun Rabbul-mala'ikati war-rooh
Most Glorious, Most Holy, Lord of the angels and the Spirit.
Source: Sahih Muslim (487) - The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say this in his Ruku' and Sujud
⭐ Special Duas to Make in Sujud (Highly Recommended)
After the obligatory dhikr, you can make these powerful duas:
1. For Forgiveness
اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي ذَنْبِي كُلَّهُ، دِقَّهُ وَجِلَّهُ، وَأَوَّلَهُ وَآخِرَهُ، وَعَلَانِيَتَهُ وَسِرَّهُ
Allahum-maghfir li dhanbi kullahu, diqqahu wa jillahu, wa awwalahu wa akhirahu, wa 'alaniyatahu wa sirrahu
O Allah, forgive me all my sins, the minor and the major, the first and the last, the open and the secret.
Source: Sahih Muslim (483)
2. For This Life and the Hereafter
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ مِنَ الْخَيْرِ كُلِّهِ عَاجِلِهِ وَآجِلِهِ، مَا عَلِمْتُ مِنْهُ وَمَا لَمْ أَعْلَمْ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الشَّرِّ كُلِّهِ عَاجِلِهِ وَآجِلِهِ، مَا عَلِمْتُ مِنْهُ وَمَا لَمْ أَعْلَمْ
Allahumma inni as'aluka minal-khayri kullihi 'ajilihi wa ajilihi, ma 'alimtu minhu wa ma lam a'lam. Wa a'udhu bika minash-sharri kullihi 'ajilihi wa ajilihi, ma 'alimtu minhu wa ma lam a'lam
O Allah, I ask You for all that is good, in this world and in the Hereafter, what I know of it and what I do not know. And I seek refuge in You from all evil, in this world and in the Hereafter, what I know of it and what I do not know.
Source: Sahih Ibn Majah (3846)
3. For Guidance and Provision
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي ظَلَمْتُ نَفْسِي ظُلْمًا كَثِيرًا وَلَا يَغْفِرُ الذُّنُوبَ إِلَّا أَنْتَ، فَاغْفِرْ لِي مَغْفِرَةً مِنْ عِنْدِكَ وَارْحَمْنِي إِنَّكَ أَنْتَ الْغَفُورُ الرَّحِيمُ
Allahumma inni zalamtu nafsi zulman kathiran wa la yaghfirudh-dhunuba illa Ant, faghfir li maghfiratan min 'indik warhamni, innaka Antal-Ghafurur-Rahim
O Allah, I have greatly wronged myself and no one forgives sins but You. So grant me forgiveness from You and have mercy on me. Surely, You are Forgiving, Merciful.
Source: Sahih Bukhari (834) and Sahih Muslim (2705) - The Prophet (ﷺ) taught this to Abu Bakr
💡 Tip: You can make dua in your own language in Sujud for any of your personal needs - health, family, guidance, provision, protection, etc. This is one of the best times for acceptance of dua!
9. Sitting Between Two Prostrations
- • Say: "Allahu Akbar" and sit up
- • Sit on your left foot with right foot upright
- • Say at least once (recommended to repeat):
Basic Dua (Minimum)
رَبِّ اغْفِرْ لِي
Rabbi-ghfir li
My Lord, forgive me.
Source: Sahih - Say at least once, recommended twice
Additional Dua Option 1 (Recommended)
رَبِّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَارْحَمْنِي
Rabbi-ghfir li warhamni
My Lord, forgive me and have mercy on me.
Source: Authentic - Adds request for mercy
Additional Dua Option 2 (More Complete)
رَبِّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَارْحَمْنِي وَاهْدِنِي وَاجْبُرْنِي وَعَافِنِي وَارْزُقْنِي
Rabbi-ghfir li warhamni wahdini wajburni wa 'afini warzuqni
My Lord, forgive me, have mercy on me, guide me, support me, give me health, and provide for me.
Source: Sunan Abu Dawud (850), Tirmidhi (284), Ibn Majah (898) - Authentic Hadith
Additional Dua Option 3 (Most Complete)
اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَارْحَمْنِي وَاهْدِنِي وَعَافِنِي وَارْزُقْنِي وَاجْبُرْنِي وَارْفَعْنِي
Allahum-maghfir li warhamni wahdini wa 'afini warzuqni wajburni warfa'ni
O Allah, forgive me, have mercy on me, guide me, grant me health, provide for me, support me, and raise me in status.
Source: Sahih - Ibn Majah (898), graded Sahih by al-Albani. Comprehensive dua covering all needs.
10. Second Sujud
• Say: "Allahu Akbar" and perform the second prostration exactly like the first
11. Continue for Additional Rak'ahs
• After the second sujud, rise for the next rak'ah saying "Allahu Akbar"
• Repeat steps 4-10 for each rak'ah
12. Tashahhud (At-Tahiyyat)
Sit after every 2 rak'ahs and in the final sitting, recite:
ٱلتَّحِيَّاتُ لِلَّهِ وَٱلصَّلَوَاتُ وَٱلطَّيِّبَاتُ، ٱلسَّلَامُ عَلَيْكَ أَيُّهَا ٱلنَّبِيُّ وَرَحْمَةُ ٱللَّهِ وَبَرَكَاتُهُ، ٱلسَّلَامُ عَلَيْنَا وَعَلَىٰ عِبَادِ ٱللَّهِ ٱلصَّالِحِينَ، أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا ٱللَّهُ، وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ
All compliments, prayers and pure words are due to Allah. Peace be upon you, O Prophet, and the mercy of Allah and His blessings. Peace be upon us and upon the righteous servants of Allah. I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger.
13. Salawat on the Prophet (ﷺ)
In the final sitting only, continue with:
ٱللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَىٰ مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلَىٰ آلِ مُحَمَّدٍ، كَمَا صَلَّيْتَ عَلَىٰ إِبْرَاهِيمَ وَعَلَىٰ آلِ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، إِنَّكَ حَمِيدٌ مَجِيدٌ. ٱللَّهُمَّ بَارِكْ عَلَىٰ مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلَىٰ آلِ مُحَمَّدٍ، كَمَا بَارَكْتَ عَلَىٰ إِبْرَاهِيمَ وَعَلَىٰ آلِ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، إِنَّكَ حَمِيدٌ مَجِيدٌ
O Allah, send prayers upon Muhammad and upon the family of Muhammad, as You sent prayers upon Ibrahim and upon the family of Ibrahim. Indeed, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious. O Allah, bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, as You blessed Ibrahim and the family of Ibrahim. Indeed, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious.
14. Duas Before Tasleem (Highly Recommended)
After Tashahhud and Salawat, before saying Salaam, make these important duas. The Prophet (ﷺ) specifically taught these:
⭐ Essential Dua - Seeking Refuge from 4 Things (Highly Emphasized)
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ عَذَابِ جَهَنَّمَ، وَمِنْ عَذَابِ الْقَبْرِ، وَمِنْ فِتْنَةِ الْمَحْيَا وَالْمَمَاتِ، وَمِنْ شَرِّ فِتْنَةِ الْمَسِيحِ الدَّجَّالِ
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'adhabi jahannam, wa min 'adhabil-qabr, wa min fitnatil-mahya wal-mamat, wa min sharri fitnatil-masihid-dajjal
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the punishment of Hell, from the punishment of the grave, from the trials of life and death, and from the evil of the trial of the False Messiah (Dajjal).
Source: Sahih Bukhari (1377) and Sahih Muslim (588) - The Prophet (ﷺ) STRONGLY emphasized this dua in every prayer
Dua for This World and Hereafter (Very Common)
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina 'adhaaban-nar
Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.
Source: Quran 2:201 - The most comprehensive dua, frequently recited by the Prophet (ﷺ)
Abu Bakr's Dua (Taught by the Prophet ﷺ)
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي ظَلَمْتُ نَفْسِي ظُلْمًا كَثِيرًا وَلَا يَغْفِرُ الذُّنُوبَ إِلَّا أَنْتَ، فَاغْفِرْ لِي مَغْفِرَةً مِنْ عِنْدِكَ وَارْحَمْنِي إِنَّكَ أَنْتَ الْغَفُورُ الرَّحِيمُ
Allahumma inni zalamtu nafsi zulman kathiran wa la yaghfirudh-dhunuba illa Ant, faghfir li maghfiratan min 'indik warhamni, innaka Antal-Ghafurur-Rahim
O Allah, I have greatly wronged myself and no one forgives sins but You. So grant me forgiveness from You and have mercy on me. Surely, You are Forgiving, Merciful.
Source: Sahih Bukhari (834) and Sahih Muslim (2705) - The Prophet (ﷺ) specifically taught this to Abu Bakr as-Siddiq
Comprehensive Dua for Forgiveness and Guidance
اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي مَا قَدَّمْتُ وَمَا أَخَّرْتُ، وَمَا أَسْرَرْتُ وَمَا أَعْلَنْتُ، وَمَا أَسْرَفْتُ، وَمَا أَنْتَ أَعْلَمُ بِهِ مِنِّي، أَنْتَ الْمُقَدِّمُ وَأَنْتَ الْمُؤَخِّرُ، لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا أَنْتَ
Allahum-maghfir li ma qaddamtu wa ma akhkhartu, wa ma asrartu wa ma a'lantu, wa ma asraftu, wa ma Anta a'lamu bihi minni. Antal-Muqaddimu wa Antal-Mu'akhkhir, la ilaha illa Ant
O Allah, forgive me what I have sent before me and what I have left behind me, what I have concealed and what I have done openly, what I have done in excess, and what You are better aware of than I. You are the One who puts forward and You are the One who delays. There is no deity worthy of worship except You.
Source: Sahih Muslim (771) - The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say this in his night prayers
Dua for Help in Worship (Mu'adh ibn Jabal's Dua)
اللَّهُمَّ أَعِنِّي عَلَى ذِكْرِكَ وَشُكْرِكَ وَحُسْنِ عِبَادَتِكَ
Allahumma a'inni 'ala dhikrika wa shukrika wa husni 'ibadatik
O Allah, help me to remember You, to thank You, and to worship You in the best manner.
Source: Sahih - Abu Dawud (1522), an-Nasa'i (1303) - The Prophet (ﷺ) told Mu'adh: "By Allah, I love you" and taught him to never leave this dua after every prayer
💡 Important: You can say all of these duas, or choose the ones you prefer. The Prophet (ﷺ) used different duas at different times. The most emphasized is the first one (seeking refuge from 4 things).
15. Tasleem (Concluding the Prayer)
- • Turn your head to the right and say:
- "Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah"
- (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you)
- • Turn your head to the left and say the same
Post-Prayer Dhikr
1. Seek forgiveness (3 times):
أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللهَ
Astaghfirullah (I seek forgiveness from Allah)
2. Then say:
اللَّهُمَّ أَنْتَ السَّلَامُ وَمِنْكَ السَّلَامُ تَبَارَكْتَ يَا ذَا الْجَلَالِ وَالْإِكْرَامِ
O Allah, You are Peace and from You comes peace. Blessed are You, O Possessor of Majesty and Honor.
3. Tasbih (33 times each):
- • Subhan'Allah (Glory be to Allah) - 33 times
- • Alhamdulillah (All praise is for Allah) - 33 times
- • Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest) - 33 times
4. Complete 100 with:
لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا اللهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ
There is no deity worthy of worship except Allah alone, without partner. To Him belongs the dominion and to Him belongs all praise, and He is Able to do all things.
5. Ayatul Kursi (Highly recommended after every Fard prayer):
Recite Ayatul Kursi (Quran 2:255). The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Whoever recites it after every obligatory prayer, nothing prevents him from entering Paradise except death."
Special Prayers & Supplications
1. Witr Prayer & Dua Qunoot
Witr is an emphasized Sunnah prayer performed after Isha, consisting of an odd number of rak'ahs (usually 1, 3, or 5). Dua Qunoot is recited in the last rak'ah before or after Ruku'.
⭐ Dua Qunoot (Traditional Version)
اللَّهُمَّ اهْدِنِي فِيمَنْ هَدَيْتَ، وَعَافِنِي فِيمَنْ عَافَيْتَ، وَتَوَلَّنِي فِيمَنْ تَوَلَّيْتَ، وَبَارِكْ لِي فِيمَا أَعْطَيْتَ، وَقِنِي شَرَّ مَا قَضَيْتَ، فَإِنَّكَ تَقْضِي وَلَا يُقْضَى عَلَيْكَ، وَإِنَّهُ لَا يَذِلُّ مَنْ وَالَيْتَ، وَلَا يَعِزُّ مَنْ عَادَيْتَ، تَبَارَكْتَ رَبَّنَا وَتَعَالَيْتَ
Allahumma-hdini fiman hadayt, wa 'afini fiman 'afayt, wa tawallani fiman tawallayt, wa barik li fima a'tayt, wa qini sharra ma qadayt, fa innaka taqdi wa la yuqda 'alayk, wa innahu la yadhillu man walayt, wa la ya'izzu man 'adayt, tabarakta Rabbana wa ta'alayt
O Allah, guide me among those You have guided, pardon me among those You have pardoned, befriend me among those You have befriended, bless me in what You have granted, and save me from the evil that You have decreed. Indeed, You decree, and none can pass decree upon You. For indeed, he whom You befriend can never be humiliated, and he whom You take as an enemy can never be honored. Blessed are You, our Lord, and Exalted.
Source: Sunan Abu Dawud (1425), Tirmidhi (464), authenticated by scholars
Dua Qunoot Nazilah (For Calamities & Hardships)
This special Qunoot is recited during times of calamity, war, or severe hardship affecting the Muslim community:
اللَّهُمَّ أَنْجِ الْمُسْتَضْعَفِينَ مِنَ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ، اللَّهُمَّ اشْدُدْ وَطْأَتَكَ عَلَى مُضَرَ، اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلْهَا عَلَيْهِمْ سِنِينَ كَسِنِي يُوسُفَ، اللَّهُمَّ عَذِّبْ كَفَرَةَ أَهْلِ الْكِتَابِ الَّذِينَ يَصُدُّونَ عَنْ سَبِيلِكَ
Allahumma anjil-mustad'afina minal-mu'minin. Allahum-ashdud wat'ataka 'ala Mudar. Allahum-aj'alha 'alayhim sinina ka-sini Yusuf. Allahumma 'adhdhib kafaratal-ahlil-kitabi alladhina yasudduna 'an sabilik
O Allah, save the oppressed and weak believers. O Allah, intensify Your grip on Mudar (tribe). O Allah, afflict them with years of famine like the years of Yusuf. O Allah, punish the disbelievers among the People of the Book who hinder others from Your path.
Source: Sahih Bukhari (1006) - The Prophet (ﷺ) made this dua during Qunoot Nazilah
2. Tahajjud (Night Prayer)
Tahajjud is the most virtuous voluntary prayer, performed in the last third of the night. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer" (Sahih Muslim 1163).
⭐ Best Time for Tahajjud
The last third of the night, when Allah descends to the lowest heaven and says: "Who is calling upon Me that I may answer him? Who is asking from Me that I may give him? Who is seeking My forgiveness that I may forgive him?" (Sahih Bukhari 1145)
Opening Dua for Tahajjud (When You Wake Up)
الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ الَّذِي أَحْيَانَا بَعْدَ مَا أَمَاتَنَا وَإِلَيْهِ النُّشُورُ
Alhamdu lillahil-ladhi ahyana ba'da ma amatana wa ilayhin-nushur
All praise is for Allah who gave us life after causing us to die, and to Him is the resurrection.
Source: Sahih Bukhari (6312) - Say this when waking up for Tahajjud
How to Pray Tahajjud
- • Pray in sets of 2 rak'ahs (minimum 2, can go up to 8 or more)
- • The Prophet (ﷺ) usually prayed 11 rak'ahs total
- • End with Witr (1 or 3 rak'ahs)
- • Use the special Tahajjud opening dua (mentioned in Step 2 of prayer guide above)
- • Recite longer portions of Quran if possible
- • Make abundant dua in Sujud
3. Salat ad-Duha (Forenoon Prayer)
A voluntary prayer performed after sunrise (about 15-20 minutes) until just before Dhuhr. It brings immense blessings and rewards.
⭐ Virtues of Duha Prayer
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Every morning there is a charity due from every joint in your body. Every tasbih is charity, every tahmid is charity, every tahlil is charity, commanding good is charity, forbidding evil is charity, and in place of all this, two rak'ahs of Duha are sufficient." (Sahih Muslim 720)
How to Pray Duha
- • Minimum: 2 rak'ahs
- • Recommended: 4 or 8 rak'ahs
- • Pray in sets of 2 rak'ahs
- • Best time: When the sun rises high and the day gets hot (mid-morning)
- • Recite any surahs you wish after Al-Fatihah
4. Salat al-Istikhara (Prayer for Guidance)
A 2-rak'ah prayer performed when you need to make an important decision. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "If any one of you is concerned about a decision, let him pray two rak'ahs of non-obligatory prayer, then say..." (Sahih Bukhari 1162)
How to Perform Istikhara
- • Make wudu and pray 2 rak'ahs (like any voluntary prayer)
- • After completing the prayer and saying Salaam, recite the Istikhara dua
- • Make your specific request/decision in the dua
- • Trust Allah's plan - proceed with your decision and watch for ease or difficulty
- • You don't need to see a dream - guidance comes through ease in the matter
⭐ Dua al-Istikhara (Complete)
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْتَخِيرُكَ بِعِلْمِكَ، وَأَسْتَقْدِرُكَ بِقُدْرَتِكَ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ مِنْ فَضْلِكَ الْعَظِيمِ، فَإِنَّكَ تَقْدِرُ وَلَا أَقْدِرُ، وَتَعْلَمُ وَلَا أَعْلَمُ، وَأَنْتَ عَلَّامُ الْغُيُوبِ. اللَّهُمَّ إِنْ كُنْتَ تَعْلَمُ أَنَّ هَذَا الْأَمْرَ [mention your matter here] خَيْرٌ لِي فِي دِينِي وَمَعَاشِي وَعَاقِبَةِ أَمْرِي فَاقْدُرْهُ لِي وَيَسِّرْهُ لِي ثُمَّ بَارِكْ لِي فِيهِ، وَإِنْ كُنْتَ تَعْلَمُ أَنَّ هَذَا الْأَمْرَ شَرٌّ لِي فِي دِينِي وَمَعَاشِي وَعَاقِبَةِ أَمْرِي فَاصْرِفْهُ عَنِّي وَاصْرِفْنِي عَنْهُ، وَاقْدُرْ لِي الْخَيْرَ حَيْثُ كَانَ ثُمَّ أَرْضِنِي بِهِ
Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi'ilmik, wa astaqdiruka bi-qudratik, wa as'aluka min fadlikal-'adhim, fa innaka taqdiru wa la aqdir, wa ta'lamu wa la a'lam, wa Anta 'Allamul-ghuyub. Allahumma in kunta ta'lamu anna hadhal-amra [mention your matter] khayrun li fi dini wa ma'ashi wa 'aqibati amri faqdurhu li wa yassirhu li thumma barik li fih. Wa in kunta ta'lamu anna hadhal-amra sharrun li fi dini wa ma'ashi wa 'aqibati amri fasrifhu 'anni wasrifni 'anh, waqdur liyal-khayra haythu kana thumma ardini bih
O Allah, I seek Your guidance by virtue of Your knowledge, and I seek ability by virtue of Your power, and I ask You of Your great bounty. For You have power and I have none. You know and I know not. You are the Knower of hidden things. O Allah, if You know that this matter [mention your specific matter] is good for me in my religion, my livelihood, and the end of my affair, then decree it for me, facilitate it for me, and bless me in it. And if You know that this matter is bad for me in my religion, my livelihood, and the end of my affair, then turn it away from me and turn me away from it, and decree for me what is good wherever it may be, and cause me to be pleased with it.
Source: Sahih Bukhari (1162) - The complete Istikhara dua taught by the Prophet (ﷺ)
Common Mistakes & Prayer Etiquettes
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Not Placing All Seven Body Parts Properly in Sujud
Mistake: Not placing the nose on the ground, or lifting feet/knees off the ground.
Correct: All 7 body parts must touch the ground: forehead, nose, both palms, both knees, and toes of both feet.
2. Praying Without Proper Covering (Awrah)
Mistake: Men praying with clothes that don't cover from navel to knees, or women not covering properly.
Correct: Men must cover at minimum from navel to knees. Women must cover everything except face and hands.
3. Rushing Through Prayer (Not Maintaining Tranquility)
Mistake: Moving too fast, not staying still in positions, pecking like a crow in Sujud.
Correct: Maintain calmness (Tuma'neenah) in each position. The Prophet (ﷺ) told a man: "Go back and pray, for you have not prayed" because he rushed. (Sahih Bukhari 757)
4. Not Reciting Al-Fatihah Properly
Mistake: Skipping Al-Fatihah or not reciting it in every rak'ah.
Correct: Al-Fatihah is REQUIRED in every rak'ah. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "There is no prayer for the one who does not recite the Opening of the Book (Al-Fatihah)" (Sahih Bukhari 756)
5. Incorrect Position of Hands During Standing
Mistake: Letting hands hang by sides or placing them incorrectly.
Correct: Place right hand over left hand on the chest (according to authentic hadith in Sahih Ibn Khuzaymah)
6. Raising Hands at Wrong Times
Mistake: Raising hands during Sujud or at incorrect times.
Correct: Raise hands only at: (1) Opening Takbir, (2) Going to Ruku', (3) Rising from Ruku', (4) Standing after first Tashahhud
7. Looking Around or Up During Prayer
Mistake: Looking at ceiling, people, or around the room.
Correct: Look at the place of Sujud (where you prostrate). The Prophet (ﷺ) warned: "Let those who raise their gaze during prayer stop doing so, or their sight will be taken away" (Sahih Muslim 428)
8. Praying in Impure Clothing or Place
Mistake: Praying with najasah (impurity) on body, clothes, or prayer spot.
Correct: Ensure body, clothes, and place of prayer are all clean and pure
9. Not Following the Imam Properly (in Congregation)
Mistake: Moving before the Imam or at the same time.
Correct: The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "The Imam is to be followed. Say Takbir when he says it, bow when he bows, and prostrate when he prostrates" (Sahih Bukhari 734)
10. Forgetting Dua Before Tasleem
Mistake: Making Salam immediately after Salawat without any dua.
Correct: Make at least the essential dua (seeking refuge from 4 things) before Tasleem. This is strongly emphasized.
✓ Prayer Etiquettes (Adab)
Before Starting Prayer:
- • Make sure you have proper wudu (ablution)
- • Face the Qiblah (direction of Ka'bah in Makkah)
- • Pray on time - don't delay unnecessarily
- • Choose a clean, quiet place free from distractions
- • Use Siwak (tooth stick) if available - the Prophet (ﷺ) said: "If it were not that it would be difficult on my Ummah, I would have ordered them to use the siwak for every prayer" (Sahih Bukhari 887)
- • Dress modestly and neatly - Allah is most deserving of beautification
- • Remove anything distracting from in front of you
During Prayer:
- • Maintain Khushu' (Humility & Focus): The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Allah does not accept the prayer of a person who does not bring his heart to presence along with his body" (Sunan Abu Dawud 904)
- • Think about the meaning of what you're reciting
- • Remember you are standing before Allah - imagine you see Him
- • Keep your eyes on the place of prostration
- • Avoid excessive movement - only what is necessary
- • Don't scratch, yawn, or fidget unnecessarily
- • Recite in a moderate voice during loud prayers (not too loud or too soft)
- • Take your time - don't rush
- • If you need to cough or sneeze, do so quietly
Special Etiquettes:
- • In Congregation: Stand shoulder to shoulder, close the gaps, straighten the rows. The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized: "Straighten your rows or Allah will cause discord among you" (Sahih Bukhari 717)
- • For Women: It's better to pray at home unless there's a need. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "The best rows for men are the first rows... and the best rows for women are the last rows" (Sahih Muslim 440)
- • Praying at Home: Pray voluntary prayers at home when possible. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "The best prayer is the prayer at home, except the obligatory prayers" (Sahih Bukhari 731)
- • Use a Sutrah: Place something in front of you (like a chair or stick) when praying alone to prevent people from walking in front of you
- • Don't Pass in Front: Never walk in front of someone praying. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "If the one who passes in front of a praying person knew what was upon him, it would be better for him to wait for forty than to pass in front of him" (Sahih Bukhari 510)
After Prayer:
- • Immediately say "Astaghfirullah" three times
- • Make the post-prayer adhkar (mentioned earlier)
- • Don't rush to leave - sit calmly for a moment
- • Make personal duas in your own language
- • Recite Quran if you have time
- • Try to maintain the spiritual state throughout the day
⭐ The Attitude of the Heart:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Prayer is the comfort of my eye" (Sunan an-Nasa'i 3940). Approach prayer with love, not as a burden. Remember, it's your direct connection with Allah, your Creator. It's not just physical movements - it's a spiritual journey five times a day. The more you focus on quality over quantity, the more you'll taste the sweetness of Salah.