Islamic Motivation

Islamic Motivation: Inspiring Quotes

1) Never expect things to happen, struggle and make them happen. Never expect yourself to be given a good value, create a value of your own.

2) If a drop of water falls in lake there is no identity. But if it falls on a leaf of lotus it shines like a pearl. So choose the best place where you would shine.

3) Falling down is not defeat, real defeat is when you are refusing to get up.

4) Ship is always safe at shore, but it is not built for it.

5) When you are successful your well-wishers know who you are, but when you are unsuccessful you know who your well-wishers are.

6) Never take some one for granted, hold every person close to your Heart because you might wake up one day and realize that you have lost a diamond while you were too busy collecting stones.

7) The fragrance of flowers spreads only in the direction of the wind. But the goodness of a person spreads in all directions!

8) Knowledge is like a fruit. When a fruit grows on a branch of a tree, its weight causes that branch to bend and bow. Similarly, when knowledge increases in a person, it causes him to become humble and not Mutakabbir (proud and boastful).

9) Under the shade there is always darkness.

The need to judge: Inspirational Quotations

• Your ability to make judgments can serve you well. It can also cause a lot of needless trouble, anxiety, and pain.
• Stop making judgments about the things that don't matter. And you'll free yourself to focus on the things that do.
• Imagine a world in which there was nothing to annoy you. When you let go of the constant need to judge, the annoyances drop quickly away.
• Many times judgment can be replaced with understanding. And by truly seeking to understand others, you will yourself be far better understood.
• Certainly there are times when a judgment is necessary and appropriate. Your judgment at such times can be much more powerful and effective when you haven't wasted it on things that don't matter.
• Use your judgment wisely. And just as wisely, give it a rest.

Ready or not, some day it will all come to an end: Inspiring Quotes

• There will be no more sunrises, no minutes, hours or days. All the things you collected, whether treasured or forgotten, will pass to someone else. Your wealth, fame and temporal power will shrivel to irrelevance. It will not matter what you owned or what you were owed. Your grudges, resentments, frustrations, and jealousies will finally disappear.
• So, too, your hopes, ambitions, plans, and to-do lists will expire. The wins and losses that once seemed so important will fade away. It won't matter where you came from, or on what side of the tracks you lived, at the end. It won't matter whether you were beautiful or brilliant.
• Even your gender and skin color will be irrelevant.
• So what will matter? How will the value of your days be measured?
• What will matter is not what you bought, but what you built; not what you got, but what you gave. What will matter is not your success, but your significance. What will matter is not what you learned, but what you taught. What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion, courage or sacrifice that enriched, empowered or encouraged others to emulate your example.
• What will matter is not your competence, but your character. What will matter is not how many people you knew, but how many will feel a lasting loss when you're gone. What will matter are not your memories, but the memories that live in those who loved you. What will matter is how long you will be remembered, by whom and for what.
• Living a life that matters doesn't happen by accident. It's not a matter of circumstance but of choice.
• Choose to live a life that matters.
• "We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give". ©2003 Michael Josephson

Lessons of life: Inspirational Quotations

• Every situation is a lesson to be learned. From the most mundane chores to the most complex projects, life is always ready to teach you something.
• Life is ready to teach when you are willing to learn. And the more you learn from what life offers, the better life becomes.
• The lessons are usually not all that obvious. Yet they are there if you will think to take a look. The lessons are there in every moment, in every dilemma, in every frustration and every joy. They are there in every sadness, every victory, every discomfort and every pleasure.
• Each lesson you learn paves the way for a new and even more valuable one. Each lesson you ignore keeps coming back, again and again.
• One way or another, life will teach you its lessons. When you're a willing student, those lessons are pure gold.

No matter what: Inspirational Quotations

• Whether the day is gray or whether it is sunny, you can make a difference. If others support you or if they conspire to stand in your way, you can make a difference.
• If you have plenty of resources available to you or if you have very few, you can make a difference. If momentum is on your side or if it is not, you can make a difference.
• You can wait and hope for things to go your way. Or you can get busy and make it happen.
• You can complain that life has been terribly unfair. Or you can move ahead anyway and achieve what you intend, no matter what the obstacles may be.
• You can plead with others to give you a break. Or you can go ahead and forge your own path to success.
• Wherever you may be, whatever may have happened, you can make a positive difference. Live with commitment, decide to move forward no matter what, and you will.

Relationships: Inspiring Quotes

• People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person.
• When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Some times they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.
• Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season!
• LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.
• Thank you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.

Righteous Deeds

Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him) says in Hadith al-Qudsi: I swear by My Glory and power that if a (child who is) disobedient to his parents comes to me with all the good deeds of all the prophets, I will not accept them from him.

Imam Ali Naqi's (as) Judgment to send tricking Zainab into the cage of Lions:

During the time of Abbasid Caliph Al-Mutawakkil a lady claimed that she was Zainab the daughter of Fatimah (sa). Abbasid Caliph Al-Mutawakkil said, "Many long years have passed since that period when Zainab lived and you are quite young."

She replied, "Yes, but the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) drew his hand upon my head and prayed for me to remain young for ever. As such, after every forty years I turn back to become young." Al-Mutawakkil called upon all the wise men to visit him and enquired from them, "What do you say about the claim of this women." All of them said, "she tells a lie."

Al-Mutawakkil said, "I know that she is lying, but what proof and logic do you have to condemn her."

They said, "We do not know, Imam Ali Naqi (as) should solve this problem."

Al-Mutawakkil at once summoned Imam Ali Naqi (as) and told him about that matter.

Imam Ali Naqi (as) said, send her to the cage of the lions, if she is telling the truth, because the beasts do not molest the children of Fatimah (sa) and do not eat their flesh. Al-Mutawakkil said to the woman, "what do you say?"

She said, "This man wishes that I may be killed. If he is right then let him do it himself." Al-Mutawakkil said, "she is right, you must do it first yourself."

Imam Ali Naqi (as) replied, "There is no hurdle to it" He went to the lions in the cage and sat among them. All observed with amazement, that the lions sat very respectfully before the Imam Ali Naqi (as) and sometimes caressed themselves against his body and he caressed their bodies with his hand, affectionately. When Imam Ali Naqi (as) ordered that they might move to a corner, all of them crept to a nook. Then Imam Ali Naqi (as) came out of the cage and went to Al-Mutawakkil and said, "Oh woman now it is your turn."

The woman started crying and begging saying, "I told a lie, I am the daughter of such and such man, and wanted to play a trick and a hoax but it did not work."

Imam Ali Naqi (as) in Abbasid Caliph Al-Mutawakkil's party:

Al-Mutawakkil, the cruel Abbasid Caliph was very fearful that people were so drawn to our 10th Imam, Imam Ali Naqi (as). He was very upset with the realization of the fact that people were ready to do anything that the Imam Ali Naqi (as) would order. Some of the conspirators also gathered around the Caliph and told him that perhaps the Imam Ali Naqi (as) has intention of revolt. And that they might find some evidence from his house.

Thus Al-Mutawakkil ordered some of his cruel fellow men to break in and search Imam Ali Naqi's (as) house and arrest him, in the middle of the night without a notice when all were asleep. Al-Mutawakkil made this decision while he was in a party and was drinking heavily. Al-Mutawakkil's men entered Imam Ali Naqi's (as) house and decided to arrest him first. They found him alone, in a room. He had taken the carpet out and was sitting on the gravel of the floor busy in remembrance of Allah. They searched everywhere and couldn't find anything. Thus they arrested the Imam Ali Naqi (as) and took him to Al-Mutawakkil.

When the Imam Ali Naqi (as) arrived. Al-Mutawakkil was at the prime of his drinking party. He ordered the Imam Ali Naqi (as) to sit next him. Then he offered a glass of wine to the Imam Ali Naqi (as). Imam Ali Naqi (as) refuse and said: "By Allah never has wine entered my body. Excuse me from it." Al-Mutawakkil accepted and said: "Then sing for us and entertain us with beautiful poems." Imam Ali Naqi (as) said: "I am not interested in poetry and I remember only but a little of the poems of other". Al-Mutawakkil said: "There is no excuse; you must read us some poetry."

Imam Ali Naqi (as) started: "They made rising mountains their residence. And they always had armed men guarding them. But none could save them from the attack of death. At the end they were descended from those hills and placed in the deeply dug graves with misery and humility. At this time a caller called: Where is all that glory, crowns, and luxury? Where is the face that knew comfort and hid itself behind silk curtains from the gazes of the commoner? The grave disgraced them at end. Those delicate faces are the ground for worms to crawl on. For a long time they sucked, swallowed, drank and ate of the earth. But today they are food for the earth and its pests."

Imam Ali Naqi's (as) voice resonated with a deep and effected melody onto the ears of the attendants, and destroyed the high of the wine. Al-Mutawakkil threw his glass away and started crying. Thus was Abbasid Caliph Al-Mutawakkil's party ruined, and the light of truth shun into a disease heart even if it were for a fleeting moment.

Imam Ali Naqi (as) news about the unseen (Ilm-e-Ghaib

People observed from Imam Ali Naqi (as) due to his connection with Allah and the unseen world, works which were considered to be the specimen of Allah's might and power.

One of the friends of our 10th Imam, Imam Ali Naqi (as) traveled from Baghdad, Iraq to Madina and had the honor to visit Imam Ali Naqi (as). Imam Ali Naqi (as) enquired from him the condition of Al-Wathiq the Abbasid Caliph and he replied, "when I left Iraq he was fit and fine, and Al-Mutawakkil was in prison and Ibn-e-Zayyat had become famous and well known among the people.

Imam Ali Naqi (as) after a moment's silence said, "That which is Allah's will, shall take place, and there is no way to stop his orders and commands. Oh my friend be aware that Al-Wathiq has passed away and Al-Mutawakkil has succeeded him and Ibn-e-Ziyyat has been slain upon the behest of Al-Mutawakkil."

I asked, "When was it?"

Imam Ali Naqi (as) replied, "Six days after you moved out of Baghdad, Iraq."

One day one of the flatterer and glib tongued person said to Al-Mutawakkil, the cruel Abbasid Caliph, "Why do you command your court offices to honor Imam Ali Naqi (as), and when he arrives they must raise the curtains and open the doors for him. This itself is against your conduct. Let Imam Ali Naqi (as) come and go like the rest of the people so that he looses his worth in the eyes of people."

Al-Mutawakkil agreed to his demand and ordered his officials not to hold the curtains and open the doors while Imam Ali Naqi (as) comes or leaves.

One day, one of his servants came rushing to him and said: "Imam Ali Naqi (as) is coming and to whichever part of the court he arrives, the doors open and curtains are drawn automatically. This thing attracted the attention of all and if this continues on the superiority and supremacy of Imam Ali Naqi (as) will become clear and evident to all, thus your Caliphate will be endangered.

Al-Mutawakkil at once ordered that the officials must adopt the previous conduct with Imam Ali Naqi (as) and honor him more than ever.

Brief Sayings of our 10th Imam, Imam Ali Naqi (as):

The one who spends his life in refuge of God, world's discomforts will become easy for him.

The one who does not counsel with others in his matters will be harmed.

World is a bazaar in which one group makes benefit and the other faces loss.

Cutting jokes and mockery is the activity and enjoyment and amusement of foolish ones.

People are respected in this world for possessing wealth and in the Hereafter for possessing righteous deeds.

Namaaz----Submission To The Will Of Allah

1.WHY SHOULD WE OFFER NAMAZ

The word Islam is generally understood to mean: ‘Submission to the Will of Allah (SWT)’: The Will of Allah (SWT) is made known to us through the Holy Quran. The Quran, in addition to various facts, contains instructions ordering as to do certain things and not to do certain others. The way one should submit to the Will of Allah (SWT), that is, obey His orders given in the Holy Quran, has been demonstrated by Prophet Muhammed (SAWS). A Muslim would therefore be defined as a person who obeys the orders of Allah (SWT) in accordance with the instructions given by Prophet Muhammed (SAWS). The instructions, saying and deeds of Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) are known as the Hadis. If the order to offer Namaz (Salaat in Arabic) is given in the Holy Quran and Hadis and if we claim ourselves to be Muslims then it becomes our duty to obey the order. Let us, therefore, search the Holy Quran and Hadis understand them thoroughly and find out, why should we offer Namaz and whether offering Namaz is compulsory or optional?

I am Allah there is no god except Me, so serve Me and establish worship ( Salaat ) for My remembrance.

( Ch:20 V:14 )

And establish worship ( Salaat ) and give charity ( Zakat ) and whatever good you send before for yourselves, you will find it with Allah, Allah is certainly the Seer of what you do. ( Ch:2 V:110 )

And enjoin worship ( Salaat ) on your people and be constant therin. We do not ask you for provision, We provide for you. And the consequences of guarding (against) evil is good. ( Ch:20 Vs:132 )

Read that which is communicated to you of the book and establish worship (Salaat), worship ( Salaat ) certainly keep one away from indecency and things and recognized (as good), and the remembrance of Allah is greatest, and Allah knows the work which you do. ( Ch:29 V:45 )

(Be of) those who turn to Him in repentance and fear Him and establish worship (Salaat ) and do not be of the polytheists, ( Ch: 30:Vs:31 )

……..Say, Allah certainly leaves in error whom He wills and guides to Himself those who turn ( to Him ), those who believe and whose hearts find peace in the remembrance of Allah. Beware ! hearts do find peace in the remembrance of Allah ( Ch:13 Vs:27 and 28 )

And those who are custodians of their worship (Salaat). They will be honoured in gardens. ( Ch:70 Vs.35 )

THE HADIS
Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) is reported to have said, “The foundation of Islam rests on five pillars:

1. To bear witness of the fact that there is no god except Allah (SWT) and Muhammed (SAWS) is His Servant and Messenger.

2. To offer Namaz regularly.

3. To pay the poor tax ( Zakat ).

4. To fast (Roza during the month of Ramadan

5. To perform pilgrimage ( Hajj ),” narrated by Hazarath Abdullah bin Omer (RA) and reported by Bukhari and Muslim).

Hazarath Ibni Masood (RA) [a companion of Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) once asked the prophet, “which act does Allah (SWT) like the most” He replied, “To offer Namaz in time.” Then he asked “Next to this which (act)” The Prophet replied, “To be good to parents.” “He again asked, “Next to this?” Then Prophet replied, “To fight in the way of Allah (SWT).” Reported by Bukhari and Mulsim).

Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) is reported to have said:

"The only wall that differentiates a Muslim from an unbeliever is Namaz and not offering Namaz wipes off this difference (that is, a Muslim not offering Namaz goes closer to disbelief)" (Narrated by Hazarath Jabir (RA) and reported by Muslim).
Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) once asked his companions, "If a stream is flowing in front of one's door and if he bathes in it five times daily, will any dirt remain on him?" His companions replied " No dirt will remain on him." The Prophet Muhammed, (SAWS) explained "Similar is the case of offering Namaz five times a day, due to it Allah (SWT) wipes off the sins." ( Narrated by Hazarath Abu Hurrairah (RA) and reported by Bukhari and Muslim).

In view of the above passages quoted form Holy Quran and Hadis, offering Namaz is an order of Allah (SWT) and His messenger and in view of the fact that we are Muslims that is those who are required to obey Allah and Prophet Muhammed (SAWS), offering Namaz is our duty that should not be avoided.

1. Namaz is the most important deed after Iman.

2. Due to it we get peace of mind and heart.

3. It keeps us away from evil and shameful deeds.

4. It wipes off sin.

5. If we do not offer Namaz we go nearer to disbelief, the punishment for which is hell.

6. The reward for being regular at Namaz is paradise. Besides offering Namaz or doing anything good is for our

own benefit, in no way do we oblige Allah (SWT) because He is free from all wants. In fact we should be thankful to Allah (SWT) to have selected us from amongst millions of human beings to stand before Him

offering Namaz and thereby getting reward both in this world and in the life hereafter death.

II. WHOM SHOULD WE WORSHIP ?

Let us search the Quran and see what should be the object of our worship while offering Namaz. The Holy Quran states :

To Him is due the real prayer (for help), and those to whom they pray (for help) besides Him, do not respond to them in anything . . . . . (Ch:13 Vs:14)
And to Allah bows down whoever (and whatever) is in the skies and the earth willingly and unwillingly and their shadows (too), in the mornings and in the evenings. Say '"Who is the Fosterer of the skies and the earth?" Say, "Allah." Say, "Then do you take guardians besides Him, who do not have the power to benefit or harm (even) their ownselves?" ..... (Ch:13 Vs:14 to 16)

You alone do we serve and (from) you alone do we seek help. (Ch:l Vs:4)
It is clear from the above verses of the Holy Quran that we are required to worship and serve only Allah (SWT) and no one else. Worshipping anything other than Allah (SWT) and considering that Allah has partners are sins known as Kufr and Shirk which will not be forgiven and the punishment of which is hell. It is of utmost importance that we should be very clear and correct in our belief (Iman), that: Allah (SWT) is the Greatest, the Most Powerful, no one is equal to Him in anything, Everything good or bad happens by his command, no one can stop Him from doing anything He wishes, He is the Supreme, the only Master of everything everywhere.

If there were two or more gods then each God would have had his own followers and all the followers of each god would have got their food, water, air, clothing etc. from their respective gods. On the contrary, all human beings, animals and plants get their food, water and all other necessities from common sources which proves that God is ONE, that is Allah (SWT) and besides Him there is no other God. He has created everything and has full control on everything. He brings us to life and causes us to die. He knows everything, is always watching us whether we are busy worshiping Him or doing anything else. He helps every one but does not need any one's help. He has neither parents nor children, He is alone. No one is like Him, He is the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful, the Cherisher and Sustainer of everything everywhere.

We should worship only Allah (SWT) and ask only Him for all help, do all that He has ordered us to do and abstain from that which He has forbidden because He rewards the good and punishes the evil. In the known and the unknown universe everything is created by Allah (SWT). We should not worship anything created but worship only the CREATOR, that is, ALLAH (SWT) and serve only Him...

III. WHERE SHOULD WE OFFER NAMAZ?

People of different religions have places of worship like the churches/ temples etc. Where should we Muslims worship Allah (SWT), that is, offer Namaz?

The Quran states :

And establish worship (Salaat) and give charity (Zakat) and bow down with those who bow down. (Ch:2 Vs:43)

Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) is reported to have said:

'Offering Namaz in congregation (jamat) is 27 times better than offering it alone". (Narrated by Hazarath Ibni Omer (RA) and reported by Bukhari and Muslim);

The importance of offering Namaz in jamat can be realized from the fact that once Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) said that he felt like setting on fire the houses of people who did not come (to the Mosque) for Namaz. (Narrated by Hazarath Abu Hurrairah (RA) and reported by Bukhari and Muslim.).

During the life - time of Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) even sick persons used to come to the mosque for offering Namaz. Even Prophet Muhammed (SAWS), during serious illness/ came to the mosque with the help of two persons.

From the Holy Quran and Hadis it is clear that Namaz, as a rule, should be offered in jamat. It is said that three persons offering Namaz in jamat is better than all offering it separately. The places where Namaz is regularly offered in jamat are Mosques.

Namaz can be offered at home under abnormal and unavoidable circumstances like severe cold, heavy rains, serious illness etc. It is better to offer Namaz in the mosque, but if due to some reason it is not possible, then it should be offered at home but in no case should it be missed.

For girls and women it is better to offer Namaz at home.

Mosque : Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) is reported to have said; 'For Allah, the best places are mosques and the worst places markets (Bazars)' Narrated by Hazarath Abu Hurrairah (RA) and reported by Muslim.)

'Every step towards the mosque carries reward.’ (Narrated by Hazarath Jabir (RA) dnd reported by Muslim.)

In view of the teachings of the Holy Quran and Hadis, we should make it a habit to visit the mosque regularly for Namaz. We should keep the mosques clean and try our level best to provide as much comfort as is possible for the persons who visit the mosque, behaving as hosts, welcoming others.

Mosques should be maintained as sacred and peaceful places where we should not use indecent language or talk aloud disturbing others who are busy in prayers. When we enter the mosque, we should first place the right leg inside and then the left and recite the following prayer:


ALLAH-HUMMA-FATHA-LI ABWABA REHMATIK

O ! Allah open the door of Mercy for me.


When we leave the mosque, we should first place the left leg out and then the right and recite the following prayer:

ALLAH-HUMA INNI ASALUKA MIN FAZLIKA WA REHMATIKA

O ! Allah I ask for your Grace and Mercy.

IV. WHEN SHOULD WE OFFER NAMAZ?

The Holy Quran, about the timings of Namaz, states:
Then when you have finished the worship (Salaat) remember Allah standing and sitting and (lying down) on your sides. Then when you are in safety, establish (regular) worship. Worship (Salaat) is certainly prescribed for the believers at fixed timings. (Ch:4 Vs:103)

Establish worship (Salaat) from the decline of the sun till the darkness of the night, and (recite) the Quran at dawn, (recitation of) the Quran at dawn is certainly witnessed. And forsake sleep for (worshipping during part) of the night. (This is) an additional (duty) for you. May be that your Fosterer will raise you to a praised position. Ch:17ys:78 & 79)

"So Glory be to Allah when you enter the evening and when you enter the morning. And praise is due only for Him (both) in. the skies and the earth, and (in) the evening and when you are at midday. (Ch:30 Vs:17 & 18)

Be guardians of your worship (Salaat) and the middle or the normal worship (Salaat) and stand up for Allah in full obedience. (Ch:2 Vs:238)

And establish worship at the two ends of the day and in the early parts of the night. Good deeds certainly remove evil deeds. That is a reminder for those who are mindful. (Ch:ll Vs:114)

Above verses of the Holy Quran just hint at the periods when Namaz is to be offered, based on the instructions and practice of Prophet Muhammed (SAWS), following periods have been fixed for offering Namaz.

1. FAJAR : From dawn to just before sunrise.

2. ZUHAR: After noon. From the time the sun starts declining till the time the shadow of everything is twice its own size.

3. ASAR : After Zuhar till just before sun set.

4. MAGHRIB : After sun set till the light in the sky disappears.

5. ISHA : After Maghrib till just before dawn. It should preferably be offered before mid-night.

6. TAHAJUD : After the Isha Namaz till just before dawn. It should preferably be offered after midnight, getting up from sleep. Normally one should offer Namaz-i-Isha and sleep without offering Namaz—i-wajibul vittar which should be offered after Tahajud after getting up from sleep late at night.

7. Friday Congregational Namaz : SAME AS ZUHAR.. (Jamat)

8. IDD Congregational Namaz : From sunrise till Zuhar. It is better to offer it earlier.

Normally all mosques, display the exact time at which each Namaz would be offered. Calenders showing the duration of each Namaz throughout the year are also available. It is better to offer Namaz as soon as the time for that particular Namaz starts.
If due to unavoidable circumstances one is unable to offer a particular Namaz during the prescribed time, he or she should offer it later (Khaza Namaz), If one is regular at offering Namaz five times a day and unfortunately if the Asar Namaz could not be offered in time/ then Asar Namaz should be offered before offering the Maghrib Namaz and so on for all other prayers.

Namaz is forbidden during the following periods :

1. Immediately before sun rise for about 5 to 7 minutes.

2. Just at noon for about 5 to 7 minutes.

3. Immediately after sun set about 5 to 7 minutes.

V. WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT CATEGORIES OF NAMAZ?

In general there are four categories of Namaz:

Farz, Wajib, Sunnath and Nafil. Let us briefly learn something about them.
1. Farz : means duty. It is compulsory and should not be avoided. It has two sub-divisions:

a) Farz-i-ayn ; which is compulsory on all Muslims, for example offering Namaz five times a day, fasting during the month of Ramadan etc. One who performs it gets the reward but one who does not perform it is a sinner, liable to be punished. One who rejects it altogether is a kafir (Unbeliever).

b) Far,z-i-kifayah ; which is not compulsory on all Muslims and even if a group of Muslims perform it the responsibility of all Muslims would be fulfilled, for example Namaz-i-janazah (Namaz for the dead).

2. Wajib : means essential or necessary. It is next to Farz in importance., for example Namaz-i-Idd. One who performs it gets the reward but one who does not perform it is a sinner liable to be punished.

3. Sunnath : means that which Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) did. There are two types of sunnaths: a) Sunnath-i-muakkadah: that which Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) always did and ordered his followers to do. One who does it gets the reward and one who does not do, is a sinner liable to be questioned. Sunnath-i-ghair muakkadah ; that which Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) did occasionally and which is optional on his followers. One who does it gets a reward.

4. Nafil: means extra. One who does it gets a reward but one who does not do/ is not liable to be punished.

The table given below/ shows different categories/ number of rakats etc. of Namaz. For convenience following abbreviations have been used: Farz=F; Sunnath-i-muakkadah=SM; Sunnath-i-ghair muakkadah=SGM; Wajib=W; Nafil=N.

VI. WHAT STOPS US FROM OFFERING NAMAZ?

Each Namaz hardly requires about five to ten minutes, yet most of us neglect it not realizing the greatness of the sin we are committing and the severity of the punishment we might get for this negligence. If Allah (SWT) forgives us for not offering Namaz, we are fortunate, but if He does not forgive, how will we face the punishment? Allah (SWT) is so kind and considerate that while ordering us to offer Namaz and do other good things. He has also cautioned us and clearly shown to us our enemy who stops us from offering Namaz and doing anything good. In the Holy Quran, Allah states:

O you who believe ! intoxicants and games of chance and stones (set up around Kaaba for sacrificing animals, idols) and divining arrows (Casting lots with arrows) are only an uncleanliness from the devil's work, so avoid it that you may be successful. The only intention of the devil is to cause enemity and hatred to befall among you through intoxicants and games of chance, and to turn you away from Allah's remembrance and worship (Salaat). Will you then desist? And obey Allah and obey the messenger and be cautious, then if you turn away, know that (the duty incumbent) on Our messenger is only clear-conveyance (of the message). (Ch:5 Vs:90 to 92)

It is clear from the above verses of the Holy Quran that the main cause for our not offering Namaz is the devil, who inspires evil and runs away. Elsewhere in the Holy Quran the devil is stated to be an open enemy of man. The devil's aim is not only to lead us to hell but also ruin our present life. We should therefore be alert and cautious of him and should not follow his it evil suggestions. We should make a determined effort to be regular at offering Namaz and doing other good things because good deeds are for our own good. It is said that when the devil inspires evil, we should recite:


AAOUZO BILLAHI MINASH-SHATTANI AAMANTU BILLAHI WA RASOOLAHI

(I betake myself to Allah for refuge from the devil I believe in Allah and His messengers.

Whenever we get bad thoughts, when we feel that something is stopping us from doing good, when we are angry and before reciting the Holy Quran, we should recite:


AAOUZU BILLAHI MINASH-SHAITANIR RAJEEM

(I betake myself to Allah for refuge from the accursed devil.)

VII. ARE THERE ANY PRE-REQUISITES FOR OFFERING NAMAZ?

The Holy Quran does not directly tell us about the prerequisites and the exact procedure for offering Namaz and many other things, but directs us to follow Prophet Muhammed (SAWS), who under the guidance of Allah, (SWT) has demonstrated how various instructions given in the Holy Quran, including Namaz, are to be implemented.

Like that. We have sent among you a messenger from among you, who reads to you Our signs and purifies you and teaches you the hook and the wisdom and teaches you that which you did not know. (Ch:2 Vs:151)

So remember Me I will remember you and be grateful to Me and do not be ungrateful to Me. (Ch:2 Vs:152)

And obey Allah and obey the messenger and be cautious, then if you turn away, know that (the duty incumbent) on Our messenger is only clear conveyance (of the message). (Ch:5 Vs:92)

In the Messenger of Allah, there is indeed a good example for you to follow, for him who expects (to meet) Allah and (the coming of) the period hereafter and remembers Allah much. (Ch.33 Vs: 21)

For every act there are some conditions to be fulfilled before performing it.

Similarly/ there are some prerequisites for offering Namaz which have been systematically laid down by learned Muslims/ based on the instructions and practices of Prophet Muhammed (SAWS). These pre-requisites are as follows :

1. Iman Or Faith : The Holy Quran on the subject of Iman states:

It is not righteousness that you turn your faces towards the east and the west, but righteous is he who believes in Allah and the period hereafter and the angels and the book and the prophets and gives wealth out of love for Him to the relatives and the orphans and the poor and the wayfarer and to those who ask (begger) and for setting the slaves free, and establish worship (Salaat) and gives charity (zakat), and those who keep up their agreements when they make an agreement, and the patient in poverty and adversity and at the time of conflict. Those are the persons who are true (believers) and those are the persons who guard (against evil).. (Ch:2 Vs:177)
Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) was once asked/ "What is Iman (faith or belief)". (The meaning of) Iman is that you believe in and accept the reality of Allah, His angels, His books. His messengers, day of resurrection (Qiyamat) and favourable (good) and unfavourable (bad) destiny (that it is by the Will of Allah).

Iman is the most important item in the life of a Muslim. Without Iman no deed has any reward. We should therefore try to repeatedly refresh our Iman which can be done by remembering Allah, offering Namaz regularly, reading the Holy Quran, attending religious meetings where purely religious matters are discussed etc.

2. Cleaniliness of Body & Clothes : Iman is spiritual cleanliness with which our body and clothes should also be clean.

a) Ghusul (Bathing): It is said that cleanliness is half Iman and that Allah loves those who are clean. We should therefore regularly take bath in addition to Fridays, Idd days etc.

Bathing is compulsory after 1) sexual Intercourse) 2) discharge of semen 3) completion of menses 4) confinement 5) after giving bath to a dead body and 6) before accepting Islam. In these conditions Namaz should not be offered without bathing.
The method of taking bath is to first wash the hands till the wrists, then wash the private parts removing all dirt and uncleanliness and perform wazu (details given later). Finally take regular bath taking care that no part of the body is left dry and unclean,

The minimum requirement is to pour water on the whole body three times in such a manner that no part of the body is left dry or unclean.

After taking bath we should always wash our "private parts whenever we pass urine or stool. We should pass urine in a sitting position and not standing. We should regularly cut our nails and remove unwanted hair.

b) WAZU : The Holy Quran, on the subject of wazu, bathing and tayammum, states ;
O you who believe ! When you rise up for worship (Salaat), then wash your faces and your hands upto the elbows and wipe your heads and (wash) your feet upto the ankles and if you have not taken a bath after sexual intercourse (or passing out of semen during sleep etc.) then clean (your whole body by taking bath). And if you are on a journey or one of you comes from the toilet or you have touched women, then, (under the above circumstances) if you do not find water, or if you are sick, then take clean dust and wipe your faces and your hands with it. Allah does not intend to put any difficulty on you, but He intends to clean you that He may complete His favour on you so that you may be grateful. (Ch:5 Vs:6)

It is clear from the verses of the Holy Quran cited above that wazu is essential before offering Namaz.


We should start the wazu by reciting


BIISMILLA-HIR REHMAN-IR RAJIEEM

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

Now perform the wazu with clean water as follows :

1. Wash both the hands three times till the wrists, first the right then the left, clean the portions between the fingers and nails.

2. Clean the teeth with index finger or preferably with miswak (a crude form of brush) then gargle three times, cleaning the mouth well.
3. Blow the nose and rinse the nostrils well 3 times.

4. Wash the face from the fore head down to the chin and from ear to ear three times.

5. Wash the fore arms from the finger tips to the elbow 3 times, first the right then the left.

6. With wet hands wipe the head once, passing the fingers through the hair, as if combing, then pass the wet tips of the index fingers inside the ears , and the wet ends of the thumbs outside the ears, thus cleaning them well, then with the wet back of the hands wipe the neck..

7. Lastly wash the feet upto the ankles three times/ first the right then the left, taking care to wash the portions between the toes and the nails.
After the wazu recite the following:



AAS-HADUAN-LLAA ILLAHA ILLALLAHU WAHDAHU LA SHARIKA LAHU WA ASH-HADU ANNA MUHAMMEDAN ABDUHU WA RASULUHU.

I bear witness that there is no god except Allah, He is alone without a partner and I bear witness that Muhammed is His servant and messenger:


ALLAHUM-MA JALNI MINAT-TAWWABEENA WA JALNI MINAL MUTATAH-HIREENA WA JALNI MIN IBADIKAS-SALIHEEN.

O Allah ! Make me of those who repent (for their sins) and those who keep themselves clean and those servants of Yours who are good.

When is fresh wazu necessary?

We should perform fresh wazu when we 1) pass urine 2) stool 3) gas 4) when there is excessive bleeding through a wound 5) after sleeping 6) after unconsciousness 7) If we laugh during Namaz.

c) Tayammum : Tayammum is permissible instead of wazu and ghusul when one is sick or water is not available. As soon as sickness is over or water is available tayammum is not permissible and wazu or ghusul has to be performed depending on the requirement.

The method of performing tayammum is :

Place the palms on clean sand remove superficial dust by blowing, then wipe the face with both the palms as you wash with water. Again place the palms on clean sand, remove the superficial dust and wipe the right forearm with the 1eft palm from the tips of fingers to the elbow and similarly the left forearm with the right palm. If clean dust is not available, talcum power may be used, because it is the powder of the mineral Talc.

Prayers at the start and end of tayammum are the same as for wazu and the conditions for performing fresh tayammum are the same as for wazu or ghusul, as the case may be.
d) Clothes: Our clothes should be neat and clean and such that no private parts are exposed. If the pants or pajamas we wear are very long they may touch the ground and become dirty specially on roads, in bathrooms and latrines. We should therefore take special care to see that our trousers do not touch the ground.

1. Cleanliness of Place : Mosques are normally clean, we should also try to keep them clean. The place where we offer Namaz at home should also be clean.
2. Timings of Namaz : Each Namaz should be offered during the prescribed period. If due to some unavoidable reason we cannot go to the mosque, each Namaz should be offered preferably immediately the period for that particular Namaz starts.
3. Direction in Namaz : The Quran, in this regard, orders:

"..... turn your face towards the sacred Mosque (Kaaba }, and. where ever you are, turn your face towards it. . . ." (Ch:2, Vs:144).

In obedience to the orders of Allah/(SWT) Muslims all over the world are required to face the Kaaba as the center, parallel circle of praying Muslims will be formed all over the world. It may be noted here that we do not worship the Kaaba, we worship only Allah/(SWT) we just face towards the Kaaba. One of the reasons for all Muslims facing towards Kaaba during Namaz, is uniformity. In the absence of a 70 common direction in Namaz, Muslims from different places might have turned in different directions and this would have given rise to great disturbance and confusion especially at occasions like the Hajj.

Facing the Kaaba, before reciting the niyyath (intention), we should recite the following verse of the Quran to ourselves :



INNI WAJJAHTU WAJHIYA LILLAZI FATARS SMAWATI WAL ARZA HANII-FO-WN-WAMAA ANA MINAL MUSHRIKEEN.

I have turned mi/face ( direction ) towards Him Who created the heavens and the earth, as one by nature upright and I am not of those who ascribe partners (unto Allah), (Ch:6, Vs:79.).

4. Languages of Namaz: We are required to offer Namaz in the Arabic language, that is the language in which the Holy Quran was revealed. This too, besides other advantages, gives rise to uniformity, a Muslim belonging to any apart of the world can offer Namaz in any part of the world, fully understanding all that is recited in Namaz. Absence of common language of Namaz would again give rise to confusion as in the case of absence of common direction.

5. Niyyath ( Intention ):Every deed depends for its value and reward on our intention. Before offering Namaz too, we should have the intention to do so hoping for full reward. We should not stand for Namaz without intention that is, just mechanically or habitually. We should stand with the intention of offering the particular Namaz, for example; I am offering four Rakat Farz of Zuhar Namaz, for Allah (SWT) with my direction towards the Kaaba.

6. Consciousness: The following verse of the Quran clearly indicates that while offering Namaz we should be in our senses so as to understand what we recite :
"O you who believe ! Do not go near Namaz when you are intoxicated until you know (well) what you say....." (Ch:4, Vs:43)

Though the orders are for the state of intoxication yet the reason given is very clear that under the influence of intoxicants we lose our senses and do not know what we say, therefore in this condition we are ordered not to offer Namaz. Going a little deep into the problem it clearly means that while offering Namaz we should know and understand what we recite. This can be done by memorizing the meaning of all that we recite in Namaz which would also help us in having the proper emotion during the whole Namaz.

7. Attitude during Namaz : While offering Namaz we should feel that we are seeing Allah (SWT), if this is not possible, we should feel that Allah(SWT) is seeing us. This would give rise to great respect for and fear of Allah (SWT) in our minds. At the same time we should be full of devotion to Allah (SWT), extremely humble and hoping for Allah's Mercy, and Forgiveness. We should be peaceful and composed. We should not be hasty and every act in the Namaz should be performed so peacefully that anyone, watching us should not feel that we are in haste.

In each act of the Namaz we should allow so much time that all the joints and muscles of our body should feel relaxed.

We should not allow our thoughts to wander here arid there but offer Namaz with full concentration which can be increased if we understand what we recite in the Namaz. Namaz is something like talking to Allah (SWT). In our normal life do we talk to a person in a language which we ourselves do not understand ? We must therefore consider it our duty to learn the Arabic language. Concentration in the Namaz is so essential that it is ordered that if we feel like attending to nature's call or if meals are ready, we should first attend to these necessities and then go for Namaz, otherwise our attention might get diverted and we may not be able to concentrate on what we recite during the Namaz. It is reported that once an arrow got stuck up in the heel of Hazarath Ali (R.A) (fourth Calif ah). It was so painful that he did not allow anyone to take it out. When he was busy offering Namaz someone slowly pulled it out and Hazrath Ali (R.A) did not even feel it. Just imagine his devotion and concentration. May Allah (SWT) give us that devotion and concentration.

Another very important advantage of knowing the meaning of what we recite in the Namaz can be illustrated by the following example.

In every Namaz, while reciting the Surah Fateha, we pray : "O Allah guide us to the straight path." After the Namaz If, we try to remember this prayer, will have the indecency to commit a sin, that is one moment we ask Allah (SWT) to guide us to the right path and the very next moment we commit a sin? If we develop this attitude of remembering the prayers recited in Namaz, even after the Namaz, we are sure to be away from sin In fact by this attitude we will be proving the truth of, the verse of the Holy Quran cited in the first chapter that Namaz keeps one away from evil and shameful deeds, our Namaz would thus influence our whole life and thereby serve one of its most important purposes.


VIII. WHAT IS AZAAN?

Azaan is an announcement informing Muslims that it is time for Namaz and inviting them to come for the jamat (to the mosque). The person who makes this announcement is known as the muazzin, who faces the Kaaba and makes the announcement in a standing position with his index fingers in his ears. The wordings of the azaan are as follows:



a) ALLAHU AKBAR, ALIAHU AKBAR, ALLAHU-AKBAR, ALLAHU-AKBAR.

'Allah is (infinitely) Great'


b) ASH-HADU-A(N)L-LA-I-LAHA ILLALLAH, ASH-HADU-A(N)L-LA-I-LAHA ILLALLAH

‘ I bear witness that there is no god except Allah


c) ASH-HADU AN-NA MUHAMMADAR-RASUL-ULLAH ASH-HADU AN-NA MUHAMMADAR-RASUL-ULLAH

‘ I bear witness that Muhammed, is the messenger of Allah.


d) HAY-YA 'ALASSALAH HAY-YA-'ALAS-SALAH'

(turning the face to the right) "come for Namaz"


e) HAY-YA 'ALAL-FALAH HAY-YA'ALAL-FALAH

(turning the face to the left) come towards success

f) AS-SALATU KHAIRUM-MINAN-NAUM

( 2 times only for the fajar Namaz) "Namaz is better than sleep


g) AL-LAHU AKBAR AL-LAHU AKBAR,

Allah is (infinitely Great)

h) LA ILAHA IL-LALLAH

There is no god except Allah

In the Azaan for the Fajar Nama2; it is stated: ‘Namaz is better than sleep’ In sleep we normally do not feel pain and grief. When we suffer from severe pain or grief; doctors normally put us to sleep. It is stated that Namaz is better than sleep, from the point of view of reward Namaz is definitely better than sleep, but it could also mean that one who offers Namaz in the right manner should feel free from pain and grief. This was actually proved in the case of Hazrath Alt whose story has been narrated above. As for grief, Namaz is known to give peace of mind. May Allah (SWT) make us realize its true value and regularly offer Namaz.
IQAMAT : This is the second announcement for Namaz made immediately before the Farz Namaz normally by the mauzzin when Namaz is offered in jamat and by one self when offered alone. It is similar to azaan with the addition of the statement given below.



QAD QAMATIS SALAH
QAD QAMATIS SALAH

The prayer has been established.

One who hears the azaan or iqamat should slowly repeat the statement 1 to 3, 5 & 7 but after items 4 & 5 he should reply by reciting;

LA HAWLA WA LA QUWWAT ILLA BILLAH-IL-ALIYAL AZEEM

'There, is no energy and power except that of Allah".

Whenever the name of Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) is mentioned whether in Azaan or else where we should recite the Durood (a prayer for Prophet Muhammed (SAWS)) or atleast pray SALLALLAHU ALAIHI WA SALLAM meaning: Mercy of Allah and Peace be on him.

After the azaan following prayer is to be recited:

'ALLAHUMMA RABBA HAAZIHI-DDAWATI-TTAA-MMATWAS-SALATIL-QAAIMATI AATI MUHAMMADA 'NILWASEELATA WAL FAZEELATA WA-BAS HU MAQAMAM-MEHMOODA NILLAZI WAAD-TTHU INNAKA LA TUKHLIFU-MIYAD.

'O Allah ! O Fosterer of this whole announcement (for Namaz) ! and the Namaz which is being established (started), You Grant to Muhammed wasila (a special position in paradise) and Grace and make him stand at Muqham-i-Mehmood, which You have promised him Surely You do not go back on Your word'.

IX. HOW SHOULD WE OFFER NAMAZ?

A) TWO RAKAT NAMAZ (FARZ, SUNNAT & NAFIL) OFFERED ALONE:

1 Takbir-i-tahrima: Raise both the hands till the ears with palms facing forward, fingers separated and say : Allahu Akbar: Allah is (infinitely) Great'
2. Qiyam : Place the palm of the right hand over the back of the wrist of the left hand holding it lightly keeping the right thumb at the top, both hands being below the navel and your gaze being at the place of the sajda


2 a) Now recite the SANA;

SUBHANAK-ALLAHUMMA WA BIHAMDIKA WA TABARAKASMUKA WA TA ALA JADDU KA WA LAA ILAHA GHAIRUKA.

'Glory be to You O0 Allah ! And praise be to You Blessed is Your name and exalted Your Majesty; and there is no other god besides You
b) TAWOZ:


AOOZU BILLAHI MINASH SHAITANIR RAJEEM

I betake myself to Allah for refuge from the accursed devil

c) TASMIYA :

BISMILLAHIR-RAHMAANIR-RAHIIM.

(In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful).

d) SURA I-FATEHA (First chapter of the Holy Quran)


AL-HAMDU LILLAAHI RABBIL 'AALAMIIN 'AR-RAHMAANIR-RAHIIM, MAALIKI YAWMID-DIIN! IYVAAKA NA'-BUDUWA 'IYYAAKA NASTA- 'IIN, 'IHDINAS-SIRAATAL-MUSTAQIIM- SIRAATAL" LAZIINA 'AN- 'AMTA 'ALAYHIM GYRIL-MAGZUBI 'ALAY-HIM WAL LAZ-ZAAALIIIN. AMEEN.

Praise is due only for Allah, the Fosterer of the worlds the Beneficent, the Merciful, the Master of the day of judgment. You alone do we serve and (from) You alone do we seek help. Guide us to the straight path, the path of those, on whom You have bestowed favours, not (the path of those), upon whom is Your anger, nor of those who are astray. (Ch:l Vs:l to7)

e) QURAN : This is followed by the recitation of any portion of the Quran which should not be less than three consecutive small verses or a long verse. Normally one of the small chapter (suras) at the end of the Quran is recited. Try to memorize with meaning as much of Quran as is possible, this carries great reward. Some passages from the Quran are given below.

THERE CONSECUTIVE SMALL VERSES :


'SUBHANA RAB BIKA RAB BIL I’ZZAATI A'MMA-YASIFOON WA SALAAMUN 'ALAL-MURSALIIN! WAL-HAMDU LILLAAHI RABBIL 'ALAMIIN


(Ch: 37 Vs:180 to 182)


'ALLAAHU LAAA 'ILAAHA 'ILLAA HUU. 'AL-HAYYUL-QAYYUUM. LAA TA'-KHUZUHUU SINATUNW-WA LAA NAWM. LAHUU MAA FISSAMAAWAATI WA MAAFIL 'ARZ. MAN-ZALLAZII YASHFA-'U 'INDAHUUU 'ILLAA BI-'IZNIH? YA'-LAMU MAA BAYNA 'AYDIIHIM WA MAA KHALFAHUM. WA LAA YUHIITUUNA BI-SHAY- 'IM-MIN 'ILMIHIII ILLAA BIMAA SHAAA' WASI-'A KURSIYYU-HUS- SAMAAWAATI WAL-'ARZ WA LAA YA-'UUDUHUU HIFZU-HUMAA, WA HUWAL 'ALIYYUL 'AZIIM.
Allah, there is no god except Him, the Living, the Eternally Existing; neither slumber takes hold of Him nor sleep; whatever is in the skies and whatever is in the earth is His. Who is there who can recommend to Him except by His permission ? He knows that which is before them and that which is behind them, and they cannot encompass anything from His knowledge except that which He wills (to impart); His Chair (power, jurisdiction) extends over the skies and the earth and it does not tire Him to preserve (monitor) them both, and He is the High, the Great. (Ch:2 Vs:255)


SMALL SURAS (CHAPTERS) OF THE QURAN:


'INNAAA 'A'-TYNAAKAL-KAWSAR. FA-SALLI LI-RABBIKA WANHAR. IINA SHAANI-'AKA HUWAL-'ABTAR.

We certainly gave you abundance, so worship your Fosterer and sacrifice. The one who hates you, he is certainly without posterity. Ch:108


QUL HU-WALLAAHU 'AHAD : 'ALLAAHUS-SAMAD :LAM YALID, WA LAM YUULAD : WALAM YAKUL-LA-HUU KUFUWAN'AHAD.

Say, "Allah is one. Allah is He on whom all depend.

He does not beget and He is not begotten. And there is no 'one equal to Him. Ch:112.


QUL 'A-'UUZU BI-RABBIL-FALAQ, MIN-SHARRI MAA KHALAQ: WA MIN-SHARRI GAASIQIN 'IZAAWAQAB, WA MIN-SHARRIN-NAFFAASAATI FIL-'UQAD, WA MIN-SHARRI HAASIDIN 'IZAA HASAD.
Say "I. seek the protection of the Fosterer of the day break, front the evil of that which He has created, and from the evil of the darkness (of night) when it overspreads, and from the evil of women blowing in the knots (practicing witchcraft) and from the evil of the envier when he envies." (Ch:113)


QUL 'A-'UUZU BI-RABBINNASS, MALIKIN-NAAS, 'ILAHIN-NAAS, MIN-SHARR1L-WASWAASIL-KHANNAAS 'ALLAZII YUWAS-WISU FII SUDDU-RIN-NAASI, MINAL-JINNATI WAN-NAAS.

Say, "I seek the protection of the Fosterer of mankind, the King of mankind, the God of mankind, from the evil whispering of (the devil), he who (whispers and then) withdraws, who whispers into the bosoms (hearts, or minds) of mankind, from among the jinn and mankind." Ch:l14

3. Ruku: a) After reciting a portion of the Quran saying Allahu Akbar, bow down holding the knee caps with the palms, keeping fingers apart. The back should be straight and as far as possible horizontal/ gaze being in between the feet.
b) Now recite the ruku tasbih three times. SUBHANA RABBIYAL AZEEM


Glorious is my Fosterer, the great.

c) QOWMA: Rise from ruku saying:


SAMI ALLAH-HULIMAN HAMEEDAH RABANA LAKAL HAMAD

'Allah has listened to him who has praised Him, our Fosterer ! Praise be to You [Let the arms be aside]

4. Sajdah : Saying Allahu Akbar, bow down for Sajdah.

a) First put your knees on the ground, then the palms, then the tip of the nose and finally the forehead. Both the hands should be in line with the ears, with the fingers close and facing forward. The, toes, knees, palms, and forehead should be apart.


b) Now recite the sajdah tasbih three times:


SUBHANA RABBIYAL AALA:

Glorious is my Fosterer the Most High.

c) JALSA : Saying Allahu Akbar, raise the fore head and the palms and sit down with the heal of the right foot erect on toes and the left foot under the left hip, palms resting on the thighs just above the knees.

d) Second Sajdah : Saying Allahu Akbar perform the second sajdah similar to the first one. After reciting the tasbih, saying Allahu Akbar, raise your head, palms and finally the knees and stand erect in Quiyam, as far as possible without taking support. This completes the first Rakath.

5. Second Rakat: Start with reciting the Sura-i-Fateha, then recite a portion of the Quran and perform the ruku and sajdah as in the first rakat.

6. Quaidah: After the second sajdah sit down as between the two sajdahs and recite the following:

TASHAH-HUD OR AT-TAHIYYAT

a) AT-TAHIYYATULILLAHI WAS-SALAWATU WAT-TAIYYABATU ASSALAMU ALAIKA AYYUHAN-NABIYYU WA RAHMATHULLAHI WA BARAKATUHU ASSALAMU ALIANA 'WA' ALA 'IBADILLAH-IS SALIHEEN ASH HADUAN (here raise the index finger) "LAA ILAHA ILLALAHU WA ASH-HADUANNA MUHAMMEDAN" ABDUHU WA RASULUHU.

"All greetings, worship (services) and good things are for Allah, Peace be on you O Prophet (SAWS) and the Mercy of Allah and His Blessings. Peace be on us and all the righteous servants of Allah. I bear witness that there is no god except Allah, (here raise the index finger of the right hand then close all the fingers of the right hand and let it rest on the thigh till the end of Namaz) and I bear witness that Muhammed is His servant and messenger.”

The above passage is the conversation between Allah (SWT) and Prophet Muhammed (SAWS) when he was invited by Allah (SWT) to meet Him and see paradise and hell which is known as Meraj. All orders concerning various aspects of life were sent to prophet Muhammed (SAWS) on earth. Offering Namaz 5 times a day was the only order for which prophet Muhammed (SAWS) was himself summoned to the heavens (Meraj). This shows the importance of Namaz.

b) DUROOD-1-IBRAHIM: Now recite the following


ALLAHUMMA SALLI 'ALA MUHAMMEDIN WA 'ALA AALE MUHAMMEDIN KAMA SALLAITA 'ALA IBRAHIMA WA 'ALA ]AALE IBRAHIMA INNAKA HAMEEDUN MAJEED. ALLAHUMMA BARIK 'ALA MUHAMMEDIN WA 'ALA AALE MUHAMMEDIN KAMA BARAKTA 'ALA IBRAHIMA WA 'ALA AALE IBRAHIMA INNAKA HAMEEDUN MAJEED.


‘ O Allah! Shower Your Mercy on Muhammed and His descendants as you showered Your Mercy on Ibrahim, and his descendents. O Allah ! Shower Your Blessings on Muhammed and on his descendents as you had showered Your Blessings on Ibrahim and his descendents.’

c) Dua:

ALLAHUMA INNI ZALAMTU NAFSI ZULMAN KASEER-AN WALA YAGHFIRUZ-ZUNUBA ILLA ANTA FAGHFIRLI MAGHFIRATAM MIN 'INDIKA WAR- HAMNI, INNAKA ANTAL GAFOOR-UR RAHIM.

‘ O Allah I have been extremely unjust to myself and none grants forgiveness against sins but You, forgive me, with the forgiveness that comes from You and have Mercy, upon me. Verily You. are the Forgiver, the Merciful.'

7, Salam : Turn your face first to the right and then to the left and say: Assalamu alaikum wa Rehamatullah, (Peace be upon you and Mercy of Allah.’)

8) THREE RAKAT (FARZ & VITAR) OFFERED ALONE:

1) Maghrib Farz: After reciting "Attahiyyat in the , second rakat, saying Allahu Akbar stand up in Qiyam and for the third rakat recite only Sura-i-Fateha, perform the ruku and sajdahs and complete the Namaz as in second rakat of two-rakat Namaz.
2. Isha Vitar : Same as Maghrib farz except that in the third rakat after the Sura-i-Fateha, recite some portion of the Quran as, in the first and second rakats, then raise your hands till the ears saying Allahu Akbar as in the Takbir-i-tahremah, and again keep standing in Qiyam as before and recite the following prayer (Dua-i-Qunoot).


'ALLAHUMMA INNA NASTAEENUKA WA NASTAGHFIRUKA WA NOWMINU BIKA WA-NATAWAKKALU ALAIKA WA NUSNF ALAIKAL KHAIR WA NASH-KURUKA WA LA NAKFURUKA WA NAKHLA'U WA NATRUKU MAIYYAFJURKA ALLAHUMMA IYYAKA NA' ABUDU WA LAKA NUSALLI WA NASJUDU WA ILAIKA NAS'AA WA NAHFIDU WA NAR JUU RAHMATAKA WA NAKHSHA 'AZABAKA INNA 'AZABAKA BIL KUFFARI MULHIQ.

'O Allah I We beseech your help and ask your pardon and believe in You and trust in You, and we praise You in the best manner and we thank You and we are not ungrateful to You, and we cast off and fore sake one who disobeys You. 'O Allah ! You alone do we serve and to You do we pray and we bow down to You and we hasten eagerly towards You and we are present, or Your service and we hope for Your Mercy and fear Your punishment; surely Your punishment overtakes the unbelievers.

Try to memorize this dua at the earliest. Till then you can recite the following small dua:


RAB BANA AATINA FID-DUNIYA HASANATOWN-WAFIL AKHIRATI HASANATOWN-WA QINA 'AZABAN -NAAR' (Ch:2 Vs:201)

' O our Fosterer ! Grant us good in this world and in the hereafter and save us from the punishment of fire. (Ch:2 Vs:201)

Now perform the ruku and two sajdahs and complete the Namaz as in the second rakat of two rakat Namaz.

C) Four Rakat Namaz Farz offered alone:

After reciting Attahiyyat in the second rakat, saying Allahu Akbar, stand, up in Qiyam for the third rakat. Recite only the Sura-i-Fateha, perform the ruku, two sajdahs and immediately stand up saying Allahu Akbar, for the fourth rakat. "Recite only the Sura-i-Fateha, perform the ruku, two sajdahs and complete the Namaz as in the second rakat of two rakat Namaz.

D) Four Rakat Namaz Sunnath & Nafil Alone :

Similar to four rakat farz offered alone except that even in the third and fourth rakats after reciting the Sura-i-Fateha in Qiyam, a portion of the Holy Quran is recited as in the first and second rakats.

E) Namaz Offered By Women & Girls :

Similar to that offered by male members with the following variations.
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1) In takbir-i-tahrimah they should raise their hands till the shoulders.

2) They should keep the palm of the right hand on the back of the left hand and keep both the hands about six inches below the neck.

3) In ruku they should bend less than gents, they should just keep their hands on the knee caps without holding them and their fingers should be dosed.

4) While sitting down on the ground in Quidah, their hips should be on the ground with their legs projecting on the right side.

5) In sajdah their forearms should be touching the ground and legs stomach and arms should be close.

SAJDAH-I-SAHU:

If we forget performing some important item of the Namaz we are required to perform the sajdah-i-sahu, if we forget even Sajdah-i-sahu we should repeat the Namaz, The procedure, for sajdah-i-sahu is as follows:
In the last rakat after reciting Attahiyyat turn your face to the right and say: Asslamu alaikum wa Rahmatulla and immediately perform two sajdahs, saying Allahu Akbar and reciting the tasbih of sajdah , as in normal Namaz. After the second sajdah sit in Quidah and recite the Attahiyyat again and proceed as before completing the Namaz.

G) Namaz Offered in Jamat (Congregation or Group):

The jamat is lead by a person known as the Imam, who should be the most pious and well informed in the group of Muslims present for offering Namaz. Normally each mosque has an Imam of its own therefore there is no question of choosing an Imam. The Imam who stands in front of the group with the intention of leading the group in Namaz, offers Namaz as if he is offering it alone. The group of Muslims : behind the Imam have to follow a slightly different procedure. They should have the niyyat (intention:) of following the Imam and offer Namaz as follows:

When the Imam says Takbir-i-tahrimah, they should also repeat Allahu Akbar to themselves, raising the hands till the ears then folding them and keeping them below the navel as when offering Namaz alone. They should then recite to themselves (not aloud) the Sana and Tawz and keep quiet concentrating their attention on Allah (SWT) and feeling that He is seeing them. They should not recite any portion of the Holy Quran.

When the Imam says Allahu Akbar for the ruku, they should also say Allahu Akbar to themselves and perform the ruku and recite the tasbih of the ruku till the Imam says Sami Allahu Liman hamidah at which they should stand straight leaving their arms aside and saying; "Rabana. Lakal Hamd." They should perform the two Sajadhs with Imam saying: Allahu Akbar at each action and reciting the Tasbih of the sajdah as they do when offering Namaz alone. Then with Imam they should stand for the second rakat saying Allahu Akbar to themselves. In the second rakat while standing in Qiyam nothing is to be recited. Ruku and sajdahs are performed as in the first rakat. After the second sajdah of second rakat they should recite Attahiyyat, durood and dua as they do while offering Namaz alone. They should wait for the Imam to finish the Namaz by saying Assalamu alaikum wa Rahamatullah, which they should repeat first turning their face to the right then to the left. If it is a three rakat Namaz, then in the second rakat after reciting Attahiyyat they should wait for the Imam to say Allahu Akbar and rise; which they should follow. In the third rakat too they are required to stay quiet in Qiyam. After the sajdahs of the third rakat they should complete the Namaz as before. If it is a four rakat Namaz, they should remain quiet in the Qiyam of the fourth rakat too as in second and third rakats and complete the fourth rakat as in the two and three rakat Namaz.

Farz Namaz of Fajar, Maghrib, Isha, Friday and Wajib Namaz of idd is recited aloud, while in the Zuhar and Asar Namaz, the Imam also recites it to himself (not aloud).
We should follow the Imam and not precede him in any action or item. At the end of Sura-i-Fateha we should say Ameen.

H) Friday Namaz : Friday Namaz is offered only in jamat (in the Mosque). In addition to bathing on other days we should bath on Friday too; apply perfume, put on nice and clean clothes and go for Namaz to the Mosque before the Qudbah (sermon) starts. When Qudbah is going on we are not supposed to offer any Namaz, Friday congregational prayer is to be offered as two rakat Farz Namaz behind the Imam as described above. We should make it a habit to recite the durood which is a prayer for prophet Muhammed (SAWS), specially on Fridays.

I) Namaz of The Sick : Namaz is compulsory and so normal important that even when we are sick but in our senses, we are not exempted from offering it. If we are not able to stand we are permitted to sit or even lie down and offer Namaz in imagination.

J) Namaz During Journey : A person who is on a journey of 48 miles and more from his place can shorten his four rakat Farz Namaz to two rakats. This Namaz is known as Qasar Namaz. If he halts at a place for fifteen or more days then he should offer the normal Namaz. During Journey both ways he can shorten his Namaz.
K) Namaz-I-Idd: It is performed in jamat as two rakat Wajib in which there are some additions as follows:

After the first Takbir Allahu Akbar, hands are kept below the navel and Sana recited as in normal Namaz. The Imam then says Allahu Akbar in short intervals. At the second and third call hands are raised till the ears and left aside but after the fourth Takbir they should be folded below the navel as in normal Namaz. The procedure for two rakat Namaz as stated earlier is then followed. In the second rakat before performing the ruku the Imam calls Allahu Akbar three times in short intervals, when the hands are raised till the ears and left aside, then the fourth time when the Imam calls Allahu Akbar we should perform the ruku and proceed as in two rakat Namaz in jamat.

L) Zikr : (Remembering Allah): In addition to Namaz, Zikr (remembering Allahm by praising Him or repeatedly reciting His Attributes or Qualities), carries great reward and Muslims have been ordered by Allah(SWT) through the Quran to do so;
So be patient on what they say and glorify your Fosterer by praising Him before the rising of the sun and before its setting, and during hours of night (too) glorify (Him), and (also) at the two ends of the day, that you may be pleased. (Ch:20 Vs:130)
So be patient over what they say, and glorify by praising your Fosterer before the rising of the sun and before its setting, and (during parts) of the night glorify Him and after the. prostrations (of salaat). (Ch:50Vs: 39 & 40).

After the Fajar and Asar Namaz, there is no other Namaz to be offered immediately, therefore the Imam and those who follow him are required to recite the following (to themselves) immediately after the Namaz;