Thursday, November 15, 2007
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Let's Us Pray
Let us pray
A GUIDE TO PERFORMING SALAT (PRAYER)
Brief and Practical
By
H.D. P. Sati Alimin
Member of the Special Advisory Team
Religious Department, TNI-AD (Indonesian Army)
Published in Jakarta, 2007
All rights reserved.
First English Edition ,2007
First Indonesian Published by
P.T. Tintamas Indonesia
Jalan Kramat Raya 60,
Jakarta Pusat
Translated by:
Muhammad Amin Abdul-Samad Ph.D
Anton Alimin
Hasnah Hashim
THE AUTHOR
Haji Datuk Penghulu Sati Alimin was born in Suliki, West Sumatra in 1909. In 1935 he became an active member of the Minangkabo Rad (People’s Consultative Assembly of Minangkabau).to defend Islam. In 1941 he wen to to visit A. Hasan (a well known figur in Java who also Sukarno's mentor).in Bangil, East Java His first book was his edition of the works of M. Natsir (former Indonesian Prime Minister) entitled Capita Selecta vol. 1 and 2 in 1954-1957. His second book was the collection of Islamic Lectures book by M. Zain Djambek. The author was a lecturer on comparative religions at PTI Islamic University Training College in West Sumatra. He passed away peacefully in 1991.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This English translation Let us Pray is dedicated to my late father H. Datuk Penghulu Sati Alimin and my mother Roslena. My gratitude specially goes to Hasnah Hashim and Dr. Amin Samad who helped me with this translation. Without them this book could not possibly have been published. My thanks also go to the Indonesian Ambassador for Australia, Sudjadnan Pamohadingrat, Major Bruce Murray, the Director of Studies of ADF School of Languages, RAAF Williams Base, Laverton, Victoria, Australia, for their kindness to write the foreword as well as to Major Zubir Ahmad (Royal Malaysian Army), Saifullah Alimin, As Jauhara Alimin Rusdy, Din Zainuddin, Syah Abdurrahman with their valuable advice. Tony Acquadro who checked the English part of the book. Without the patience of my wife Ruby and my two children Bobby and Syafik this translation would not have been possible. Last but not least, the main purpose of this translation is to honour to my late father, H.D.P. Sati Alimin, who taught to love books and literature. This book is also a present for my daughter Alessandra Ghazella Destin Alimin as well as to students learning Indonesian language deal with Islamic prayers. Therefore, this translation has no bearing on Islamic propagation.
CONTENTS
List of Arabic scripts and transliteration ……………………………………………
Preface by the Head of the Religious Department, TNI-AD …………………………
The Essence of Islam ………………………………………………………………..
1. Preparation for Salat (Prayer) ………………………………………………………
2. Obligatory Prayers ……………………………………………………………….
2.1. The Morning Prayer (Salatu l-Fajr) ………………………………………………….
2.2. The Evening Prayer (Salatu l-Maghrib) ……………………………………….
2.3. The Noon Prayer (Salatu z-Zuhr), the Afternoon Prayer (Salatu l-‘Asr) and
The Night Prayer (Salatu l-‘Isha) ………………………………………………..
3. Congregational Prayer (Salatu l- Jama’ah) ………………………………………
4. Friday Prayer (Salatu-l Jum’ah) …………………………………………………….
5. Idu l-Fitri and Idu l-Adha Prayers. ……………………………………………
6. Funeral Prayer (Salatu l-Janazah). ……………………………………………..
TRANSLITERATION SYSTEM
The English transliteration for Arabic names and terms followed in this booklet is as follows:
a. Consonants:
ا = a or ‘ ب = b ت = t ث = th ج = j
ح = h. خ = kh د = d ذ = dh ر = r
ز = z س = s ش = sh ص = s. ض = d.
ط = t. ظ = z. ع = ‘ غ = gh ف = f
ق = q ك = k ل = l م = m ن = n
هـ = h و = w ي = y ء = ’ (like alif)
b. Vowels:
Short: long:
Fathah: ---- = a as u in but ـا = ā as a in are
Kasrah: ---- = i as I in sit ـي = ī as ee in see
D.ammah: ---- = u as u in put ـو = ū as oo in soon
c. Diphthongs:
أي = ay as i in time أو = aw as ou in house
MARILAH KITA SALAT
(LET US PRAY)
FOREWORD
This prayer book is Mr. Anton Alimin’s translation of the original work Marilah Kita Salat by H.D.P. Sati Alimin, noted as an Indonesian Muslim scholar
This booklet is very important for the Muslims, as it provides valuable information about Islamic prayer (salat) and the proper way to perform it in a simple language. Mr. Alimin’s translation not only helps English speaking Muslims in performing their daily obligatory prayers, but also assists, to some extent, teachers and students involved in studying the culture, language and predominant religion in Indonesia.
Mr. Alimin’s translation of his late father’s work has to be appreciated as one of his contributions to Islam among English speaking people, especially in Australia.
B.E. Murray
Director of Studies
Australian Defence School of Languages
Melbourne, Australia 6 September, 2000
PREFACE
Head of the Department Islamic Affairs of the Indonesian Army-TNI
Assalamu alaikum w.w.
With the grace of Allah the Almighty, we have fulfilled the request of our readers in publishing a booklet as a guide in performing the Islamic prayer, salat. Praise and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad who taught Muslims to pray and educate their children at the early age, especially when they reach the age of seven.
This booklet is intended to assist Muslims in carrying out their obligation to Allah in performing their obligatory prayers. Allah says in the Qur’an, “O ye who believe! Seek help with patience, perseverance and prayer, for Allah is with those who patiently perserve.” (Qur’an, 2:153).
May Allah grant us success and guidance.
Wassalam
Head of the Department Islamic Affairs of the Indonesian Army-TNI
H. Abjan Soleiman
Inf. Colonel NRP. 153373
1 Safar 1395 A.H.
Jakarta, 13 February, 1975 C.E.
INTRODUCTION
This booklet is intended for guiding, in a simple and practical way, those who wish to learn how to perform the Islamic way of praying (salat). It also can be used to teach children at home the proper way of praying. For those who cannot read Arabic script, transliteration is given as well as translation is given
In order to pronounce the Arabic texts properly, it is highly recommended to get some assistance from any person who can read Arabic. Letters not available in English are represented as symbols which are recently available as software programs on computers. Using the international standard of transliteration would be difficult in typing as well as type setting.
This booklet is written in a simple language containing the basic teaching only, and therefore is intended for beginners and novices. Those who have mastered this basic teaching can consult more advanced books dealing with Islamic prayers.
Pictures are deliberately omitted, since the explanation in this booklet would be sufficient, especially with the assistance from teachers, parents or elders.
It is hoped that this booklet would be read in one’s spare time, since it is published in a pocket size to be easy to carry.
Any criticism for the improvement of this booklet in the next edition would be highly appreciated. May Allah the Almighty bless this effort and bring it to success, and reward the publisher and all of us.
Editor
Jakarta, 1 February 1975. H.D.P. Sati Alimin
THE ESSENCE OF ISLAM
Islam is the name given to a religion revealed by Allah through Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. Unlike other revealed religions , the term Islam means in Arabic ‘peace’, ‘peace in God’. The term Islam is given by Allah Himself as mentioned in the Qur’an, as follows:
اليوم أكملت لكم دينكم و أتممت عليكم نعمتي و رضيت لكم الإسلام دينا (المائدة :3)
This day have I perfected your Religion for you, completed My favour upon; you and I have chosen for you Islam as your Religion (al-Ma’idah 5:3).
It is fortunate for us that the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and of Islam took place when history was being recorded. Consequently, we can trace, study, investigate and analyze his life, and the revelation of the Qur’an. It has been acknowledged in the world that the teachings of Islam brought by Prophet Muhammad is genuine and that Islam is a true religion and not the product of human mind no matter how intelligent he/she is. It is clear that there was a Divine Power that guided and taught Prophet Muhammad.
The core of Islam is practical and easy to understand. It is neither complicated nor full of dogmas. Allah says in the Qur’an: “Say (O Muhammad), I am but a man like yourselves, (but) the inspiration has come to me, that your God is One God. Whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteousness, and admit no one as partner in the worship of his Lord.” (Suratu l-Kahf: 110).
How practical and easy to believe in God, the One, the Hereafter, and the Judgment Day where people will appear before the Almighty and be responsible for their deeds! Therefore, one has to do good deeds in this life If a person believes in these two pillars of faith, namely, the existence of the Divine Power, the One and the Supreme, as well as the Judgement Day, then it would be easier for him/her to believe in the other Islamic pillars of faith. They are: belief in angels, prophets, the Holy Books, and the divine decree. The angels, prophets and the Holy Books are mediators between God, the One and man. The angel, namely Gabriel, brought the divine messages from Allah to Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) and messengers before him among human beings. As human beings, these messengers and prophet had limited ages. When they died the messages were handed down to the following generations until the end of time. Therefore, the angels, prophets and Holy Books acted as mediators between God and Man.
The sixth fundamental of faith in Islam is the belief in divine decree. We have to believe in it, willingly or unwillingly, agree or disagree to it, aware of it or not. As human beings who submit ourselves to Him we must believe in His divine decree without any investigation. This belief in the divine decree has great effect on the believer. He would not lose hope easily in life, disregarding any misfortune or responsibility on his shoulder, he would always try to do his best, and believe in His divine decree. Whoever believes in Allah’s divine decree would stay calm whatever happens to him in this life.
A person who strongly believes in these six fundamentals of faith is called a mu’min (a believer). These six fundamentals of faith are: the belief in (1) God, Allah, the One (2) His angels (3) His prophets (4) His Holy Books (5) the Judgement Day, and (6) His divine decree. According to Islam, these very six fundamentals of faith had been conveyed and taught by messengers and prophets before Muhammad, starting from Adam to Muhammad, including other prophets, such as Noah, Abraham, Moses and Jesus. A mu’min (a believer), then, a follower of Prophet Muhammad has to believe in all messengers and prophets sent by Allah, whether their names are mentioned in the Qur’an or not. Allah says in the Qur’an, ولقد أرسلنا رسلا من قبلك فمنهم من قصصنا عليك و منهم من لم نقصص عليك (المؤمن 78:40)
Beside the six fundamentals (pillars) of faith, a Muslim has to perform five fundamentals. The purpose is to have constant and continual communication with his Lord, so that this relationship remains refreshed in his heart and soul. These fundamentals are called the five pillars of Islam. They are: (1) the pronouncing of the kalimah shahadah (the formula of testimony), stating that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah; (2) establishing the five daily prayers; (3) payment of the obligatory alms (zakat); (4) fasting in the month of Ramadan every year; (5) performing the pilgrimage to Mecca once in a lifetime for those who can afford it.
By practicing regularly these five pillars of Islam as acts of devotion to God, a Mu’min (a believer) becomes a Muslim which means being in peace with Allah.4 It is hoped that by performing the obligatory five-daily prayers with full devotion the Muslims would return to and meet their Lordin the Day of Judgment peaceffully, and in a state of happiness and bliss which cannot be expressed in any human language. Amin!
Preparation before Prayer
Before performing the prayer (salat), one has to be in a state of religiously clean and pure, namely, he has to perform ablution (wudu'). In performing the ablution, particular parts of the body have to be washed and cleaned. The performance of ablate is as follows:
1. By saying بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم (bismil-lahir-rahmanir-rahim, “in the name of Allah Most Merciful Most Compassionate), declare the intention to perform the ablution for worshipping Allah in prayer and for purity.
2. Wash the hands up to the wrists, three times.
3. Rinse out the mouth with water, three times, preferably with a brush whenever possible.
4. Cleanse the nostrils of the nose by sniffing water into them, three times.
5. Wash the whole face with both hands, if possible, three times, from the top of the forehead to the bottom of the chin, and from ear to ear.
6. Wash the right arm up to the top of the elbow, three times. Then do the same with the left arm.
7. Wipe the whole head from forehead to the back of the neck with both hands [i.e. with wet fingers].
8. With wet fingers wipe the inner sides of the ears with forefingers and the outer sides with the thumbs, once
9. Wash the right foot up to the ankles, three times.
10. Wash the left foot up to the ankles, three times.
After cleansing yourself in this manner, recite this du‘a’ (supplication).
أشهد أن لا إله إلاّ الله وحده لا شريك له و أشهد أن محمدا عبده و رسوله
(Ashhad an la ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lahu
wa ashhadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh).
“I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, the only One, no associate with Him,
And I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger”
By reciting this du‘a’ we have completed the ablution. (wuđu’). We now have to be sure that our clothes and the place for performing the salat (prayer) are clean from any impurity (najis), such as faeces, urine, fluid discharge due to sexual excitement (madhdhi), menstrual blood and post-natal blood.
Clothes have to be clean and cover the ‘aurah. The ‘aurah for man is the part of his body between the navel and the knees, and for woman is her whole body except her face and palms. However, for man, the more he covers his body the better. After fulfilling the above requirements, we are now ready for prayer.
Notes
After having sexual intercourse, one has to do the ghusl, namely, take a bath and wash the whole body.
For a woman whose hair is tied with a braid or in plait, it is sufficient to pour water on her head three times without having to undo her braid. In case water is unavailable or the use of it becomes harmful for a sick person, the performance of wudu' (ablution) and ghusl (bath) can be substituted with tayammum. It is performed by striking slightly or tapping the open palms of both hands on pure earth (sand) or a dusty wall. Shake off the dust, then wipe them once to the face with both arms up to the wrist.
The ablution becomes nullified and invalid with natural discharge from the two outlets, such as faeces, urine, seminal discharge, and menstrual blood. Although semen is not considered impure, the discharge of it invalidates the ablution and requires a person to have a bath.
2. Obligatory prayers.
There are five obligatory prayers, which have to be performed by a Muslim in his daily life. They are:
1. The Morning Prayer (Salatul-Fajr), starting from the break of dawn till sunrise.
2. The Noon prayer (Salatuz-Zuhr), starting from the decline of the sun from its zenith till it is about midway from setting.
3. The Afternoon prayer (Salatul-‘Asr), starting after noon prayer time till before sunset.
4. The Evening prayer (Salatul-Maghrib), starting after sunset till the disappearance of the red colour of the sky in the West.
5. The Night prayer (Salatul-‘Isha’), starting after evening prayer time till before the break of dawn.
2.1. The Morning Prayer
It consists of two rak‘ahs (units), performed in the following way:
1. Stand up straight facing the Qiblah, the direction of the Ka’bah in Mecca. Then make the intention to perform the morning prayer, raising both hands up the ears till the thumbs are at the same level as that of the ears, saying الله أكبر (Allahu akbar) meaning “Allah is Great” Then both hands are lowered and folded between the stomach and the chest Afterwards, in this standing position (qiyam), read the introductory supplication (du‘a’ul iftitah), as follows:
2. Introductory Supplication :
وجهت وجهي للذي فطر السماوات و الأرض حنيفا مسلما و ما أنا من المشركين
(Wajjahtu wajhi lilladhi fataras samawati wal arda hanifan musliman wa ma ana minal mushrikin”
“I have turned my face towards Him Who created the heavens and the earth, as one by nature upright, and I am not of the idolaters”
إن صلاتي و نسكي و محياي و مماتي لله رب العالمين
(Inna salati wa nusuki wa mahyaya wa mamati lillahi rabbil ‘alamin”
“My worship and my sacrifice and my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the Worlds.
لا شريك له و بذلك أمرت و أنا من المسلمين
(La sharika lahu wa bidhalika umirtu wa ana minal muslimin)
“He has no partner. This I am commanded, and I am one of those who surrender (unto Him).
3. Reciting the Fatihah, beginning with the Ta'awwudh.
أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم
(A‘udhu billahi minash shaytanir rajim)
“I seek refuge in Allah from Satan the outcast”
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
(Bismillahir rahmanir rahim)
In the name of Allah the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate.
الحمد لله رب العالمين
(Alhamdu lillahi rabbil ‘alamin)
“Praise be to Allah the Lord of the World.”
الرحمن الرحيم
(Arrahmanir rahim)
“Most Gracious Most Merciful”
ملك يوم الدين
(Maliki yawmid din)
“Master of the Day of Judgement”
إياك يعبد و إياك نستعين
(Iyyaka na‘budu wa iyyaka nasta‘in)
“Thee (alone) we worship, and Thee (alone) we ask for help”
اهدنا الصراط المستقيم
(Ihdinas siratal mustaqim)
“Show us the straight path”
صراط الذين أنعمت عليهم
(Siratal ladhina an‘amta ‘alayhim)
“The path of those whom Thou hast favoured”
غير المغضوب عليهم و لا الضالين
Ghayril maghdubi ‘alayhim walad dallin).
“Not the path of those who earn Thine anger nor of those who go astray.”
آمين
(Amin). Amen!
4. Reciting a Surah (chapter of the Qur’an)
After reciting the Fatihah, recite any surah from the Qur’an you have memorized. For example: Surah al-Ikhlas (chapter 112), as follows:
قل هو الله أحد (Qul huwallahu ahad) “Say, He is Allah, the One”.
الله الصمد (Allahus Samad); “Allah, the Eternal, the Absolute”
لم يلد و لم يولد (Lam yalid wa lam yulad) “He begetteth not nor was begotten”
و لم يكن له كفوا أحد (Wa lam yakun lahu kufuwan ahad) “And there is none comparable to Him”
5. Ruku‘ (Bowing)
After reciting the Surah, raise both hands up to the level of your shoulders or ears and say “Allahu Akbar”, meaning “Allah is Great”. Then bend down with the head and back on the same level, and put your hands on your knees with fingers spread out. In this position, at least say three times:
سبحان ربي العظيم (Subhana rabbiyal ‘Azim) “Glorified is my Lord, the Great”
6. I‘tidal (Straightening up from Ruku‘)
I‘tidal is straightening up from ruku‘. At the same time, raise the hands as in takbir, saying:
سمع الله لمن حمده (Sami‘allahu liman hamidah) “Allah listens to him who praises him”.
While standing, say the following:
ربنا لك الحمد (Rabbana lakal hamd) “Our Lord, praise be for you only”
7. Sajdah (prostration)
Following the i‘tidal, say the takbir (“Allahu Akbar”) and prostrate as follows: Press the knees, followed by the palms of both hands onto the floor with the fingers close together and pointing towards the Qiblah. The face is lowered to the floor with the forehead and the tip of the nose touching the ground. While in this position, say:
سبحان ربي الأعلى (Subhana rabbiyal a‘la), “Glorified is my Lord, the Exalted”, three times.
8. Raising from the Sajdah
While saying the takbir, raise the head from the Sajdah, lay the left foot along the ground and sit on it, while the right foot remains in position with the toes firmly pressed to the ground. Both palms are placed on the thighs, with the tips of the fingers leveling with the knees. In this position, say:
رب اغفر لي و ارحمني واهدني و عافني و ارزقني
(Rabbi ghfirli wa rhamni wa hdini wa ‘afini wa rzuqni)
“O my Lord! Forgive me, have mercy on me, guide me, give me health and sustenance”.
9. The Second Sajdah
Say the Takbir (“Allahu Akbar”) and go again into the sajdah position, reciting the same supplication, three times. With the performance of the second sajdah, the first rak‘ah of the fajr prayer becomes complete.
10. The Second Rak‘ah (Unit)
Rise up from the second sajdah while saying the takbir (“Allahu Akbar”) without raising the hands as in the first rak‘ah, but fold them as before .
11. Recite al-Fatihah as in step 3 above, beginning with “bismillah”
12. Recite another Surah. For example, Surah al-Kawthar (chapter 108)
إنا أعطيناك الكوثر (Inna a' taynakal kawthar) “Lo! We have given thee Abundance”
فصل لربك و انحر (Fasalli lirabbika wanhar) “So pray unto thy Lord, and sacrifice”
إن شانئك هو الأبتر (Inna shani’aka huwal abtar) “Lo! It is thy insulter (and not thou) who is without posterity”
13. Perform step 5 to 9 in the first rak‘ah
14. Tashahhud
The position of sitting after the second sajdah is called tawarruk, whereas sitting between two sajdahs is called iftirash. In the “tawarruk” position all toes of the left foot are place in the curve formed by the right foot which is in an upright position with the toes firmly pressed to the ground. In fact, the left seat touches the floor. Both palms are placed on the thighs, and the tips of the fingers are leveled with the knees. In this sitting position cite the following tashahhud
التحيات لله و الصلوات و الطيبات (Attahiyyatu lillahi was salawatu wat tayyibatu)
“All greetings and blessings and goodness belong to Allah”
السلام عليك أيها النبي و رحمة الله و بركاته (Assalamu ‘alayka ayyuhan nabiyyu wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh)
“Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah, O Prophet”
السلام علينا و على عباد الله الصالحين (Assalamu ‘alayna wa ‘ala ‘ibadil lahis salihin)
“Peace be upon us and on all righteous servants of Allah”
أشهد أن لا إله إلا الله (Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah)
“I bear witness that there is no god except Allah”
و أشهد أن محمدا عبده و رسوله (Wa ashhadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh)
“And I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger”
15. The Second Tashahhud
This follows the first tashahhud:
الهم صل على محمد و على آل محمد (Allahumma salli ‘ala muhammad wa ‘ala ali muhammad)
“O Allah, send your mercy on Muhammad and the family of Muhammad”
كما صليت على إبراهيم و على آل إبراهيم (Kama sallayta ‘ala ibrahima wa ‘ala ali ibrahim)
“Just as You sent your mercy on Abraham and the family of Abraham.“
و بارك على مجمد و على آل محمد (Wa barik ‘ala muhammad wa ‘ala ali muhammad)
“And send your blessings on Muhammad and the family of Muhammad”
كما باركت على إبراهيم و على آل إبراهيم (Kama barakta ‘ala ibrahima wa ‘ala ali ibrahim)
“Just as You sent your blessings on Abraham and the family of Abraham.“
إنك حميد مجيد (Innaka hamidun majid).
“Verily, You are the Most Praised, the Most Glorious”
16. Salutation of Peace (Taslim)
Having completed the second tashahhud, turn the face to the right, saying:
السلام عليكم و رحمة الله (Assalamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullah)
“Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you”
Turn to the left and say,
السلام عليكم و رحمة الله (Assalamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullah)
“Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you”
This marks the end of the prayer.
Closing
Recite some closing supplications and praises as an expression of gratitude to Allah for His blessings, such as follows:
a. أستغفر الله العظيم الذي لا إله إلا هو الحي القيوم و أتوب إليه
(Astaghfirullah al-ladhi la ilaha illa huwal hayyul qayyum wa atubu ilayh)
“I seek forgiveness from Allah, the Almighty, Who has no god (as partner) except Himself, the Living, the Self-Sustaining, and I repent to Him” (three times)
b. سبحان الله (Subhanallah) “Glory to Allah” (33 times)
الحمد لله (Alhamdu lillah) “Praise be to Allah” ( 33 times)
الله أكبر (Allahu Akbar) “Allah is Great” (33 times)
Complete it with the following recitation to make the total of 100 times:
لا إله إلا الله وحده لا شريك له ، لاه الملك و له الحمد و هو على كل شيء قدير
(La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu, lahul mulku wa lahul hamdu wa huwa ‘ala kulli shay’in qadir)
“There is no god except Allah, the only One. He has no partner. His is the sovereignty and to Him is the praise. He has power over all things.”
After the completion of these supplications, you can say any du‘a (supplication) you like. Allah loves His servants who whisper to Him in humbleness.
2.2. Maghrib Prayers
The Maghrib prayer consists of three rak‘ahs (units). The first two rak‘ahs are similar to those of the fajr prayer, except the intention which should be made for the Maghrib prayer.
2. The sitting position for the first tashahhud in the second rak‘ah is slightly different from that of the Fajr prayer. In this second rak‘ah the sitting position is similar to that between the two sajdahs (prostrations), where the left foot is laid along the ground and is sat on it, while the right foot remains in the upright position (refer to no. 18).
3. After reciting the first tashahhud in this second rak‘ah, rise into the standing position saying the takbir (“Allahu Akbar”), and the hands are folded between the chest and the stomach as in the first rak‘ah. This is the beginning of the third rak‘ah.
4. In this position recite al-Fatihah, but no Surah.
5. After reciting al-Fatihah, perform the ruku‘, i‘tidal, sajdah, straitening up after the sajdah and the second sajdah (step 5 to 9). Go into the sitting position as in the tashahhud position of the second rak‘ah of the fajr prayer. Recite the first and the second tashahhud, salawat and salam, as in the second rak‘ah of the fajr prayer. With this the Maghrib prayer becomes complete.
2.3 Zuhr, Asr and ‘Isha prayers.
As mentioned earlier, Zuhr, Asr and Isha prayers each consists of four rak‘ahs. The intention to perform any of these prayers has to be made.
After the second sajdah at the third rak‘ah in the maghrib prayer, do not sit for the tashahhud, but rise to a standing position to perform the fourth rak‘ah, and say “Allahu Akbar” without raising the hands to the ears, but folded once again between the chest and the stomach.
In this standing position at the beginning of the fourth rak‘ah, recite al-Fatihah without reciting any other surah. After reciting al-Fatihah and performing the ruku’, i‘tidal, sajdah, straightening up after the sajdah, and the second sajdah (step 5 to 9), go into the sitting position as in the tashahhud position of the second rak‘ah of the Fajr prayer. Recite the first and second tashahhud, salat and salam, as in the second rak‘ah of the fajr prayer. As we know the prayers that consist of three or four rak‘ahs have two tashahhuds, the first and the second.
This marks the end of our explanation of the five daily obligatory prayers.
3. CONGREGATIONAL PRAYERS (SALATUL JAMA ‘AH)
If possible, perform the five obligatory prayers with other people, in congregation. It means doing them together by following an imam. Those who follow the imam are called ma’mum.
In this instance we follow the imam’s actions, except when he recites al-Fatihah aloud in the first two rak‘ahs of the evening, night and dawn prayers, namely, Maghrib, 'Isha and Fajr prayers where we must keep silent and listen. After saying “Amin” succeeding the imam’s recitation of al-Fatihah we recite al-Fatihah. However, there are some opinions saying that the recitation of al-Fatihah aloud by the imam in the two rak‘ahs is sufficient, and therefore, there is no need for the ma’mum to recite it.
4. FRIDAY CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER (SALATUL JUM ‘AH)
The Jum‘ah (Friday) prayer replaces the Zuhr prayer on Friday. It consists of two rak‘ahs, i.e., the Fajr prayer and performed similar to it. The difference is only in the intention.
The Jum‘ah prayer is preceded by a sermon. It is given by the imam and contains advice to Muslims dealing with life in this world and the Hereafter. While the sermon is being conducted by the imam, nobody else is allowed to talk
The best thing to do as soon as you enter the mosque is to perform a recommended two rak'ah prayer. It is called tahiyyatul masjid prayer, meaning, “a prayer perform in respect of the mosque”.
The Friday prayer is an obligatory one. Exception is only given in some cases, such as heavy Rain, strong wind, and sickness.
6. EID PRAYERS (IDUL FITRI AND IDUL ADHA)
Muslims perform two eid prayers a year, known as Idul Fitri and Idul Adha prayers. In Indonesia, we call them “Lebaran Puasa” and “Lebaran Haji” Both eid prayers are performed in congregation similar to Fajr prayer. The only difference is that in the first rak‘ah, after saying the takbiratul ihram, namely, “Allahu Akbar”, we say it again seven times before the imam recites al-Fatihah. In the second rak‘ah, “Allahu Akbar” is said again five times before the imam reads al-Fatihah. We should just follow the imam in saying the takbir.
Unlike the Friday prayer where the sermon is given before the prayer, the sermons in idul fitri and idul adha prayer is given after performing the prayer.
7. JANAZAH (FUNERAL) PRAYER
The funeral prayer is the only one where it is performed in standing position from the beginning to the end. There is no bowing or prostration. As usual, the Fatihah is recited after saying the takbiratul ihram, namely, “Allahu Akbar”. After reciting al-Fatihah, the imam raises his hands again, saying “Allahu Akbar”, followed by the ma’mum. Then read the salawah. After reading the salawah, raise the hands again and say the takbir again, followed by du‘a (supplication) for the dead. Among the du‘a taught by the Prophet is as follows:
الهم اغفر له و ارحمه و عافه و اعف عنه و اكرم نزله ووسع مدخله …
(Allahumma ghfir lahu warhamhu wa ‘afihi wa’fu ‘anhu wakram nuzulahu wa wassi‘ madkhalahu)
:”O Allah, forgive him, have mercy on him, protect him, pardon him and honour his place and facilitate his entry (i.e. to the next world)”
Then raise the hands again and say the takbir for the third time, followed by another supplication. The second supplication can be the same as the first, or any other one. To conclude the prayer, turn the face to the right, saying the salam, namely, assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah, then to the left, saying the same salam.
We have just completed the guide for performing the five obligatory prayers as well as a few others which are important to the Muslims in their daily lives.
May Allah gives us His blessings and mercy in this life, amin!!!
A GUIDE TO PERFORMING SALAT (PRAYER)
Brief and Practical
By
H.D. P. Sati Alimin
Member of the Special Advisory Team
Religious Department, TNI-AD (Indonesian Army)
Published in Jakarta, 2007
All rights reserved.
First English Edition ,2007
First Indonesian Published by
P.T. Tintamas Indonesia
Jalan Kramat Raya 60,
Jakarta Pusat
Translated by:
Muhammad Amin Abdul-Samad Ph.D
Anton Alimin
Hasnah Hashim
THE AUTHOR
Haji Datuk Penghulu Sati Alimin was born in Suliki, West Sumatra in 1909. In 1935 he became an active member of the Minangkabo Rad (People’s Consultative Assembly of Minangkabau).to defend Islam. In 1941 he wen to to visit A. Hasan (a well known figur in Java who also Sukarno's mentor).in Bangil, East Java His first book was his edition of the works of M. Natsir (former Indonesian Prime Minister) entitled Capita Selecta vol. 1 and 2 in 1954-1957. His second book was the collection of Islamic Lectures book by M. Zain Djambek. The author was a lecturer on comparative religions at PTI Islamic University Training College in West Sumatra. He passed away peacefully in 1991.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This English translation Let us Pray is dedicated to my late father H. Datuk Penghulu Sati Alimin and my mother Roslena. My gratitude specially goes to Hasnah Hashim and Dr. Amin Samad who helped me with this translation. Without them this book could not possibly have been published. My thanks also go to the Indonesian Ambassador for Australia, Sudjadnan Pamohadingrat, Major Bruce Murray, the Director of Studies of ADF School of Languages, RAAF Williams Base, Laverton, Victoria, Australia, for their kindness to write the foreword as well as to Major Zubir Ahmad (Royal Malaysian Army), Saifullah Alimin, As Jauhara Alimin Rusdy, Din Zainuddin, Syah Abdurrahman with their valuable advice. Tony Acquadro who checked the English part of the book. Without the patience of my wife Ruby and my two children Bobby and Syafik this translation would not have been possible. Last but not least, the main purpose of this translation is to honour to my late father, H.D.P. Sati Alimin, who taught to love books and literature. This book is also a present for my daughter Alessandra Ghazella Destin Alimin as well as to students learning Indonesian language deal with Islamic prayers. Therefore, this translation has no bearing on Islamic propagation.
CONTENTS
List of Arabic scripts and transliteration ……………………………………………
Preface by the Head of the Religious Department, TNI-AD …………………………
The Essence of Islam ………………………………………………………………..
1. Preparation for Salat (Prayer) ………………………………………………………
2. Obligatory Prayers ……………………………………………………………….
2.1. The Morning Prayer (Salatu l-Fajr) ………………………………………………….
2.2. The Evening Prayer (Salatu l-Maghrib) ……………………………………….
2.3. The Noon Prayer (Salatu z-Zuhr), the Afternoon Prayer (Salatu l-‘Asr) and
The Night Prayer (Salatu l-‘Isha) ………………………………………………..
3. Congregational Prayer (Salatu l- Jama’ah) ………………………………………
4. Friday Prayer (Salatu-l Jum’ah) …………………………………………………….
5. Idu l-Fitri and Idu l-Adha Prayers. ……………………………………………
6. Funeral Prayer (Salatu l-Janazah). ……………………………………………..
TRANSLITERATION SYSTEM
The English transliteration for Arabic names and terms followed in this booklet is as follows:
a. Consonants:
ا = a or ‘ ب = b ت = t ث = th ج = j
ح = h. خ = kh د = d ذ = dh ر = r
ز = z س = s ش = sh ص = s. ض = d.
ط = t. ظ = z. ع = ‘ غ = gh ف = f
ق = q ك = k ل = l م = m ن = n
هـ = h و = w ي = y ء = ’ (like alif)
b. Vowels:
Short: long:
Fathah: ---- = a as u in but ـا = ā as a in are
Kasrah: ---- = i as I in sit ـي = ī as ee in see
D.ammah: ---- = u as u in put ـو = ū as oo in soon
c. Diphthongs:
أي = ay as i in time أو = aw as ou in house
MARILAH KITA SALAT
(LET US PRAY)
FOREWORD
This prayer book is Mr. Anton Alimin’s translation of the original work Marilah Kita Salat by H.D.P. Sati Alimin, noted as an Indonesian Muslim scholar
This booklet is very important for the Muslims, as it provides valuable information about Islamic prayer (salat) and the proper way to perform it in a simple language. Mr. Alimin’s translation not only helps English speaking Muslims in performing their daily obligatory prayers, but also assists, to some extent, teachers and students involved in studying the culture, language and predominant religion in Indonesia.
Mr. Alimin’s translation of his late father’s work has to be appreciated as one of his contributions to Islam among English speaking people, especially in Australia.
B.E. Murray
Director of Studies
Australian Defence School of Languages
Melbourne, Australia 6 September, 2000
PREFACE
Head of the Department Islamic Affairs of the Indonesian Army-TNI
Assalamu alaikum w.w.
With the grace of Allah the Almighty, we have fulfilled the request of our readers in publishing a booklet as a guide in performing the Islamic prayer, salat. Praise and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad who taught Muslims to pray and educate their children at the early age, especially when they reach the age of seven.
This booklet is intended to assist Muslims in carrying out their obligation to Allah in performing their obligatory prayers. Allah says in the Qur’an, “O ye who believe! Seek help with patience, perseverance and prayer, for Allah is with those who patiently perserve.” (Qur’an, 2:153).
May Allah grant us success and guidance.
Wassalam
Head of the Department Islamic Affairs of the Indonesian Army-TNI
H. Abjan Soleiman
Inf. Colonel NRP. 153373
1 Safar 1395 A.H.
Jakarta, 13 February, 1975 C.E.
INTRODUCTION
This booklet is intended for guiding, in a simple and practical way, those who wish to learn how to perform the Islamic way of praying (salat). It also can be used to teach children at home the proper way of praying. For those who cannot read Arabic script, transliteration is given as well as translation is given
In order to pronounce the Arabic texts properly, it is highly recommended to get some assistance from any person who can read Arabic. Letters not available in English are represented as symbols which are recently available as software programs on computers. Using the international standard of transliteration would be difficult in typing as well as type setting.
This booklet is written in a simple language containing the basic teaching only, and therefore is intended for beginners and novices. Those who have mastered this basic teaching can consult more advanced books dealing with Islamic prayers.
Pictures are deliberately omitted, since the explanation in this booklet would be sufficient, especially with the assistance from teachers, parents or elders.
It is hoped that this booklet would be read in one’s spare time, since it is published in a pocket size to be easy to carry.
Any criticism for the improvement of this booklet in the next edition would be highly appreciated. May Allah the Almighty bless this effort and bring it to success, and reward the publisher and all of us.
Editor
Jakarta, 1 February 1975. H.D.P. Sati Alimin
THE ESSENCE OF ISLAM
Islam is the name given to a religion revealed by Allah through Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. Unlike other revealed religions , the term Islam means in Arabic ‘peace’, ‘peace in God’. The term Islam is given by Allah Himself as mentioned in the Qur’an, as follows:
اليوم أكملت لكم دينكم و أتممت عليكم نعمتي و رضيت لكم الإسلام دينا (المائدة :3)
This day have I perfected your Religion for you, completed My favour upon; you and I have chosen for you Islam as your Religion (al-Ma’idah 5:3).
It is fortunate for us that the birth of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and of Islam took place when history was being recorded. Consequently, we can trace, study, investigate and analyze his life, and the revelation of the Qur’an. It has been acknowledged in the world that the teachings of Islam brought by Prophet Muhammad is genuine and that Islam is a true religion and not the product of human mind no matter how intelligent he/she is. It is clear that there was a Divine Power that guided and taught Prophet Muhammad.
The core of Islam is practical and easy to understand. It is neither complicated nor full of dogmas. Allah says in the Qur’an: “Say (O Muhammad), I am but a man like yourselves, (but) the inspiration has come to me, that your God is One God. Whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteousness, and admit no one as partner in the worship of his Lord.” (Suratu l-Kahf: 110).
How practical and easy to believe in God, the One, the Hereafter, and the Judgment Day where people will appear before the Almighty and be responsible for their deeds! Therefore, one has to do good deeds in this life If a person believes in these two pillars of faith, namely, the existence of the Divine Power, the One and the Supreme, as well as the Judgement Day, then it would be easier for him/her to believe in the other Islamic pillars of faith. They are: belief in angels, prophets, the Holy Books, and the divine decree. The angels, prophets and the Holy Books are mediators between God, the One and man. The angel, namely Gabriel, brought the divine messages from Allah to Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) and messengers before him among human beings. As human beings, these messengers and prophet had limited ages. When they died the messages were handed down to the following generations until the end of time. Therefore, the angels, prophets and Holy Books acted as mediators between God and Man.
The sixth fundamental of faith in Islam is the belief in divine decree. We have to believe in it, willingly or unwillingly, agree or disagree to it, aware of it or not. As human beings who submit ourselves to Him we must believe in His divine decree without any investigation. This belief in the divine decree has great effect on the believer. He would not lose hope easily in life, disregarding any misfortune or responsibility on his shoulder, he would always try to do his best, and believe in His divine decree. Whoever believes in Allah’s divine decree would stay calm whatever happens to him in this life.
A person who strongly believes in these six fundamentals of faith is called a mu’min (a believer). These six fundamentals of faith are: the belief in (1) God, Allah, the One (2) His angels (3) His prophets (4) His Holy Books (5) the Judgement Day, and (6) His divine decree. According to Islam, these very six fundamentals of faith had been conveyed and taught by messengers and prophets before Muhammad, starting from Adam to Muhammad, including other prophets, such as Noah, Abraham, Moses and Jesus. A mu’min (a believer), then, a follower of Prophet Muhammad has to believe in all messengers and prophets sent by Allah, whether their names are mentioned in the Qur’an or not. Allah says in the Qur’an, ولقد أرسلنا رسلا من قبلك فمنهم من قصصنا عليك و منهم من لم نقصص عليك (المؤمن 78:40)
Beside the six fundamentals (pillars) of faith, a Muslim has to perform five fundamentals. The purpose is to have constant and continual communication with his Lord, so that this relationship remains refreshed in his heart and soul. These fundamentals are called the five pillars of Islam. They are: (1) the pronouncing of the kalimah shahadah (the formula of testimony), stating that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah; (2) establishing the five daily prayers; (3) payment of the obligatory alms (zakat); (4) fasting in the month of Ramadan every year; (5) performing the pilgrimage to Mecca once in a lifetime for those who can afford it.
By practicing regularly these five pillars of Islam as acts of devotion to God, a Mu’min (a believer) becomes a Muslim which means being in peace with Allah.4 It is hoped that by performing the obligatory five-daily prayers with full devotion the Muslims would return to and meet their Lordin the Day of Judgment peaceffully, and in a state of happiness and bliss which cannot be expressed in any human language. Amin!
Preparation before Prayer
Before performing the prayer (salat), one has to be in a state of religiously clean and pure, namely, he has to perform ablution (wudu'). In performing the ablution, particular parts of the body have to be washed and cleaned. The performance of ablate is as follows:
1. By saying بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم (bismil-lahir-rahmanir-rahim, “in the name of Allah Most Merciful Most Compassionate), declare the intention to perform the ablution for worshipping Allah in prayer and for purity.
2. Wash the hands up to the wrists, three times.
3. Rinse out the mouth with water, three times, preferably with a brush whenever possible.
4. Cleanse the nostrils of the nose by sniffing water into them, three times.
5. Wash the whole face with both hands, if possible, three times, from the top of the forehead to the bottom of the chin, and from ear to ear.
6. Wash the right arm up to the top of the elbow, three times. Then do the same with the left arm.
7. Wipe the whole head from forehead to the back of the neck with both hands [i.e. with wet fingers].
8. With wet fingers wipe the inner sides of the ears with forefingers and the outer sides with the thumbs, once
9. Wash the right foot up to the ankles, three times.
10. Wash the left foot up to the ankles, three times.
After cleansing yourself in this manner, recite this du‘a’ (supplication).
أشهد أن لا إله إلاّ الله وحده لا شريك له و أشهد أن محمدا عبده و رسوله
(Ashhad an la ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lahu
wa ashhadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh).
“I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, the only One, no associate with Him,
And I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger”
By reciting this du‘a’ we have completed the ablution. (wuđu’). We now have to be sure that our clothes and the place for performing the salat (prayer) are clean from any impurity (najis), such as faeces, urine, fluid discharge due to sexual excitement (madhdhi), menstrual blood and post-natal blood.
Clothes have to be clean and cover the ‘aurah. The ‘aurah for man is the part of his body between the navel and the knees, and for woman is her whole body except her face and palms. However, for man, the more he covers his body the better. After fulfilling the above requirements, we are now ready for prayer.
Notes
After having sexual intercourse, one has to do the ghusl, namely, take a bath and wash the whole body.
For a woman whose hair is tied with a braid or in plait, it is sufficient to pour water on her head three times without having to undo her braid. In case water is unavailable or the use of it becomes harmful for a sick person, the performance of wudu' (ablution) and ghusl (bath) can be substituted with tayammum. It is performed by striking slightly or tapping the open palms of both hands on pure earth (sand) or a dusty wall. Shake off the dust, then wipe them once to the face with both arms up to the wrist.
The ablution becomes nullified and invalid with natural discharge from the two outlets, such as faeces, urine, seminal discharge, and menstrual blood. Although semen is not considered impure, the discharge of it invalidates the ablution and requires a person to have a bath.
2. Obligatory prayers.
There are five obligatory prayers, which have to be performed by a Muslim in his daily life. They are:
1. The Morning Prayer (Salatul-Fajr), starting from the break of dawn till sunrise.
2. The Noon prayer (Salatuz-Zuhr), starting from the decline of the sun from its zenith till it is about midway from setting.
3. The Afternoon prayer (Salatul-‘Asr), starting after noon prayer time till before sunset.
4. The Evening prayer (Salatul-Maghrib), starting after sunset till the disappearance of the red colour of the sky in the West.
5. The Night prayer (Salatul-‘Isha’), starting after evening prayer time till before the break of dawn.
2.1. The Morning Prayer
It consists of two rak‘ahs (units), performed in the following way:
1. Stand up straight facing the Qiblah, the direction of the Ka’bah in Mecca. Then make the intention to perform the morning prayer, raising both hands up the ears till the thumbs are at the same level as that of the ears, saying الله أكبر (Allahu akbar) meaning “Allah is Great” Then both hands are lowered and folded between the stomach and the chest Afterwards, in this standing position (qiyam), read the introductory supplication (du‘a’ul iftitah), as follows:
2. Introductory Supplication :
وجهت وجهي للذي فطر السماوات و الأرض حنيفا مسلما و ما أنا من المشركين
(Wajjahtu wajhi lilladhi fataras samawati wal arda hanifan musliman wa ma ana minal mushrikin”
“I have turned my face towards Him Who created the heavens and the earth, as one by nature upright, and I am not of the idolaters”
إن صلاتي و نسكي و محياي و مماتي لله رب العالمين
(Inna salati wa nusuki wa mahyaya wa mamati lillahi rabbil ‘alamin”
“My worship and my sacrifice and my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the Worlds.
لا شريك له و بذلك أمرت و أنا من المسلمين
(La sharika lahu wa bidhalika umirtu wa ana minal muslimin)
“He has no partner. This I am commanded, and I am one of those who surrender (unto Him).
3. Reciting the Fatihah, beginning with the Ta'awwudh.
أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم
(A‘udhu billahi minash shaytanir rajim)
“I seek refuge in Allah from Satan the outcast”
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
(Bismillahir rahmanir rahim)
In the name of Allah the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate.
الحمد لله رب العالمين
(Alhamdu lillahi rabbil ‘alamin)
“Praise be to Allah the Lord of the World.”
الرحمن الرحيم
(Arrahmanir rahim)
“Most Gracious Most Merciful”
ملك يوم الدين
(Maliki yawmid din)
“Master of the Day of Judgement”
إياك يعبد و إياك نستعين
(Iyyaka na‘budu wa iyyaka nasta‘in)
“Thee (alone) we worship, and Thee (alone) we ask for help”
اهدنا الصراط المستقيم
(Ihdinas siratal mustaqim)
“Show us the straight path”
صراط الذين أنعمت عليهم
(Siratal ladhina an‘amta ‘alayhim)
“The path of those whom Thou hast favoured”
غير المغضوب عليهم و لا الضالين
Ghayril maghdubi ‘alayhim walad dallin).
“Not the path of those who earn Thine anger nor of those who go astray.”
آمين
(Amin). Amen!
4. Reciting a Surah (chapter of the Qur’an)
After reciting the Fatihah, recite any surah from the Qur’an you have memorized. For example: Surah al-Ikhlas (chapter 112), as follows:
قل هو الله أحد (Qul huwallahu ahad) “Say, He is Allah, the One”.
الله الصمد (Allahus Samad); “Allah, the Eternal, the Absolute”
لم يلد و لم يولد (Lam yalid wa lam yulad) “He begetteth not nor was begotten”
و لم يكن له كفوا أحد (Wa lam yakun lahu kufuwan ahad) “And there is none comparable to Him”
5. Ruku‘ (Bowing)
After reciting the Surah, raise both hands up to the level of your shoulders or ears and say “Allahu Akbar”, meaning “Allah is Great”. Then bend down with the head and back on the same level, and put your hands on your knees with fingers spread out. In this position, at least say three times:
سبحان ربي العظيم (Subhana rabbiyal ‘Azim) “Glorified is my Lord, the Great”
6. I‘tidal (Straightening up from Ruku‘)
I‘tidal is straightening up from ruku‘. At the same time, raise the hands as in takbir, saying:
سمع الله لمن حمده (Sami‘allahu liman hamidah) “Allah listens to him who praises him”.
While standing, say the following:
ربنا لك الحمد (Rabbana lakal hamd) “Our Lord, praise be for you only”
7. Sajdah (prostration)
Following the i‘tidal, say the takbir (“Allahu Akbar”) and prostrate as follows: Press the knees, followed by the palms of both hands onto the floor with the fingers close together and pointing towards the Qiblah. The face is lowered to the floor with the forehead and the tip of the nose touching the ground. While in this position, say:
سبحان ربي الأعلى (Subhana rabbiyal a‘la), “Glorified is my Lord, the Exalted”, three times.
8. Raising from the Sajdah
While saying the takbir, raise the head from the Sajdah, lay the left foot along the ground and sit on it, while the right foot remains in position with the toes firmly pressed to the ground. Both palms are placed on the thighs, with the tips of the fingers leveling with the knees. In this position, say:
رب اغفر لي و ارحمني واهدني و عافني و ارزقني
(Rabbi ghfirli wa rhamni wa hdini wa ‘afini wa rzuqni)
“O my Lord! Forgive me, have mercy on me, guide me, give me health and sustenance”.
9. The Second Sajdah
Say the Takbir (“Allahu Akbar”) and go again into the sajdah position, reciting the same supplication, three times. With the performance of the second sajdah, the first rak‘ah of the fajr prayer becomes complete.
10. The Second Rak‘ah (Unit)
Rise up from the second sajdah while saying the takbir (“Allahu Akbar”) without raising the hands as in the first rak‘ah, but fold them as before .
11. Recite al-Fatihah as in step 3 above, beginning with “bismillah”
12. Recite another Surah. For example, Surah al-Kawthar (chapter 108)
إنا أعطيناك الكوثر (Inna a' taynakal kawthar) “Lo! We have given thee Abundance”
فصل لربك و انحر (Fasalli lirabbika wanhar) “So pray unto thy Lord, and sacrifice”
إن شانئك هو الأبتر (Inna shani’aka huwal abtar) “Lo! It is thy insulter (and not thou) who is without posterity”
13. Perform step 5 to 9 in the first rak‘ah
14. Tashahhud
The position of sitting after the second sajdah is called tawarruk, whereas sitting between two sajdahs is called iftirash. In the “tawarruk” position all toes of the left foot are place in the curve formed by the right foot which is in an upright position with the toes firmly pressed to the ground. In fact, the left seat touches the floor. Both palms are placed on the thighs, and the tips of the fingers are leveled with the knees. In this sitting position cite the following tashahhud
التحيات لله و الصلوات و الطيبات (Attahiyyatu lillahi was salawatu wat tayyibatu)
“All greetings and blessings and goodness belong to Allah”
السلام عليك أيها النبي و رحمة الله و بركاته (Assalamu ‘alayka ayyuhan nabiyyu wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh)
“Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah, O Prophet”
السلام علينا و على عباد الله الصالحين (Assalamu ‘alayna wa ‘ala ‘ibadil lahis salihin)
“Peace be upon us and on all righteous servants of Allah”
أشهد أن لا إله إلا الله (Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah)
“I bear witness that there is no god except Allah”
و أشهد أن محمدا عبده و رسوله (Wa ashhadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh)
“And I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger”
15. The Second Tashahhud
This follows the first tashahhud:
الهم صل على محمد و على آل محمد (Allahumma salli ‘ala muhammad wa ‘ala ali muhammad)
“O Allah, send your mercy on Muhammad and the family of Muhammad”
كما صليت على إبراهيم و على آل إبراهيم (Kama sallayta ‘ala ibrahima wa ‘ala ali ibrahim)
“Just as You sent your mercy on Abraham and the family of Abraham.“
و بارك على مجمد و على آل محمد (Wa barik ‘ala muhammad wa ‘ala ali muhammad)
“And send your blessings on Muhammad and the family of Muhammad”
كما باركت على إبراهيم و على آل إبراهيم (Kama barakta ‘ala ibrahima wa ‘ala ali ibrahim)
“Just as You sent your blessings on Abraham and the family of Abraham.“
إنك حميد مجيد (Innaka hamidun majid).
“Verily, You are the Most Praised, the Most Glorious”
16. Salutation of Peace (Taslim)
Having completed the second tashahhud, turn the face to the right, saying:
السلام عليكم و رحمة الله (Assalamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullah)
“Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you”
Turn to the left and say,
السلام عليكم و رحمة الله (Assalamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullah)
“Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you”
This marks the end of the prayer.
Closing
Recite some closing supplications and praises as an expression of gratitude to Allah for His blessings, such as follows:
a. أستغفر الله العظيم الذي لا إله إلا هو الحي القيوم و أتوب إليه
(Astaghfirullah al-ladhi la ilaha illa huwal hayyul qayyum wa atubu ilayh)
“I seek forgiveness from Allah, the Almighty, Who has no god (as partner) except Himself, the Living, the Self-Sustaining, and I repent to Him” (three times)
b. سبحان الله (Subhanallah) “Glory to Allah” (33 times)
الحمد لله (Alhamdu lillah) “Praise be to Allah” ( 33 times)
الله أكبر (Allahu Akbar) “Allah is Great” (33 times)
Complete it with the following recitation to make the total of 100 times:
لا إله إلا الله وحده لا شريك له ، لاه الملك و له الحمد و هو على كل شيء قدير
(La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu, lahul mulku wa lahul hamdu wa huwa ‘ala kulli shay’in qadir)
“There is no god except Allah, the only One. He has no partner. His is the sovereignty and to Him is the praise. He has power over all things.”
After the completion of these supplications, you can say any du‘a (supplication) you like. Allah loves His servants who whisper to Him in humbleness.
2.2. Maghrib Prayers
The Maghrib prayer consists of three rak‘ahs (units). The first two rak‘ahs are similar to those of the fajr prayer, except the intention which should be made for the Maghrib prayer.
2. The sitting position for the first tashahhud in the second rak‘ah is slightly different from that of the Fajr prayer. In this second rak‘ah the sitting position is similar to that between the two sajdahs (prostrations), where the left foot is laid along the ground and is sat on it, while the right foot remains in the upright position (refer to no. 18).
3. After reciting the first tashahhud in this second rak‘ah, rise into the standing position saying the takbir (“Allahu Akbar”), and the hands are folded between the chest and the stomach as in the first rak‘ah. This is the beginning of the third rak‘ah.
4. In this position recite al-Fatihah, but no Surah.
5. After reciting al-Fatihah, perform the ruku‘, i‘tidal, sajdah, straitening up after the sajdah and the second sajdah (step 5 to 9). Go into the sitting position as in the tashahhud position of the second rak‘ah of the fajr prayer. Recite the first and the second tashahhud, salawat and salam, as in the second rak‘ah of the fajr prayer. With this the Maghrib prayer becomes complete.
2.3 Zuhr, Asr and ‘Isha prayers.
As mentioned earlier, Zuhr, Asr and Isha prayers each consists of four rak‘ahs. The intention to perform any of these prayers has to be made.
After the second sajdah at the third rak‘ah in the maghrib prayer, do not sit for the tashahhud, but rise to a standing position to perform the fourth rak‘ah, and say “Allahu Akbar” without raising the hands to the ears, but folded once again between the chest and the stomach.
In this standing position at the beginning of the fourth rak‘ah, recite al-Fatihah without reciting any other surah. After reciting al-Fatihah and performing the ruku’, i‘tidal, sajdah, straightening up after the sajdah, and the second sajdah (step 5 to 9), go into the sitting position as in the tashahhud position of the second rak‘ah of the Fajr prayer. Recite the first and second tashahhud, salat and salam, as in the second rak‘ah of the fajr prayer. As we know the prayers that consist of three or four rak‘ahs have two tashahhuds, the first and the second.
This marks the end of our explanation of the five daily obligatory prayers.
3. CONGREGATIONAL PRAYERS (SALATUL JAMA ‘AH)
If possible, perform the five obligatory prayers with other people, in congregation. It means doing them together by following an imam. Those who follow the imam are called ma’mum.
In this instance we follow the imam’s actions, except when he recites al-Fatihah aloud in the first two rak‘ahs of the evening, night and dawn prayers, namely, Maghrib, 'Isha and Fajr prayers where we must keep silent and listen. After saying “Amin” succeeding the imam’s recitation of al-Fatihah we recite al-Fatihah. However, there are some opinions saying that the recitation of al-Fatihah aloud by the imam in the two rak‘ahs is sufficient, and therefore, there is no need for the ma’mum to recite it.
4. FRIDAY CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER (SALATUL JUM ‘AH)
The Jum‘ah (Friday) prayer replaces the Zuhr prayer on Friday. It consists of two rak‘ahs, i.e., the Fajr prayer and performed similar to it. The difference is only in the intention.
The Jum‘ah prayer is preceded by a sermon. It is given by the imam and contains advice to Muslims dealing with life in this world and the Hereafter. While the sermon is being conducted by the imam, nobody else is allowed to talk
The best thing to do as soon as you enter the mosque is to perform a recommended two rak'ah prayer. It is called tahiyyatul masjid prayer, meaning, “a prayer perform in respect of the mosque”.
The Friday prayer is an obligatory one. Exception is only given in some cases, such as heavy Rain, strong wind, and sickness.
6. EID PRAYERS (IDUL FITRI AND IDUL ADHA)
Muslims perform two eid prayers a year, known as Idul Fitri and Idul Adha prayers. In Indonesia, we call them “Lebaran Puasa” and “Lebaran Haji” Both eid prayers are performed in congregation similar to Fajr prayer. The only difference is that in the first rak‘ah, after saying the takbiratul ihram, namely, “Allahu Akbar”, we say it again seven times before the imam recites al-Fatihah. In the second rak‘ah, “Allahu Akbar” is said again five times before the imam reads al-Fatihah. We should just follow the imam in saying the takbir.
Unlike the Friday prayer where the sermon is given before the prayer, the sermons in idul fitri and idul adha prayer is given after performing the prayer.
7. JANAZAH (FUNERAL) PRAYER
The funeral prayer is the only one where it is performed in standing position from the beginning to the end. There is no bowing or prostration. As usual, the Fatihah is recited after saying the takbiratul ihram, namely, “Allahu Akbar”. After reciting al-Fatihah, the imam raises his hands again, saying “Allahu Akbar”, followed by the ma’mum. Then read the salawah. After reading the salawah, raise the hands again and say the takbir again, followed by du‘a (supplication) for the dead. Among the du‘a taught by the Prophet is as follows:
الهم اغفر له و ارحمه و عافه و اعف عنه و اكرم نزله ووسع مدخله …
(Allahumma ghfir lahu warhamhu wa ‘afihi wa’fu ‘anhu wakram nuzulahu wa wassi‘ madkhalahu)
:”O Allah, forgive him, have mercy on him, protect him, pardon him and honour his place and facilitate his entry (i.e. to the next world)”
Then raise the hands again and say the takbir for the third time, followed by another supplication. The second supplication can be the same as the first, or any other one. To conclude the prayer, turn the face to the right, saying the salam, namely, assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah, then to the left, saying the same salam.
We have just completed the guide for performing the five obligatory prayers as well as a few others which are important to the Muslims in their daily lives.
May Allah gives us His blessings and mercy in this life, amin!!!
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