The Power of Salah: Transform Your Life with This Simple Habit!

Struggling in Life? Discover How Salah Can Change Everything!

Every Muslim knows that Salah (prayer) is one of the most important obligations of Islam, a great act of worship, and the pillar of the religion. However, in addition to being an obligatory duty, Salah also plays a crucial role in an individual’s self-reform and moral training.

The Holy Quran states:

"Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book, and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer prevents immorality and wrongdoing."

In this verse, it is clearly mentioned that prayer has the unique ability to prevent a person from wrongdoing and helps in their moral reform. Many hadiths explain that those who establish prayer properly gradually abandon sins and bad habits over time.

The True Meaning of Establishing Salah (Iqamat-e-Salat)

The term “Iqamat-e-Salat” does not simply mean performing Salah as a routine task, but rather, offering it with complete devotion and adherence to its outward and inward etiquettes, as demonstrated by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

For example:

1. Understanding and Observing Its Conditions, Sunnahs, and Etiquettes – One must acquire the correct knowledge of Salah and follow its conditions, Sunnah practices, and etiquettes as accurately as possible.
2. Attaining Humility and Sincerity in Salah – One should perform Salah with deep humility and presence of mind, as if they are standing before Allah and conversing with Him.

When a person establishes Salah in this manner, they are naturally granted the ability by Allah to perform righteous deeds and develop a strong inclination to stay away from evil. However, if someone performs Salah regularly yet continues to engage in immoral behavior or wrongdoing, they should realize that there is a deficiency in their prayer.

To truly establish Salah, consider the following:

• Learn the Conditions and Sunnahs – Understanding the correct method of Salah ensures that all essential aspects are fulfilled.

• Cultivate Humility and Sincerity – Imagine standing before Allah and conversing with Him; this mindset fosters devotion.

• Focus on the Meaning – Understanding the supplications and verses recited in Salah enhances engagement and reflection.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"If a person's Salah does not prevent them from immorality and wrongdoing, then their Salah is meaningless."

Thus, it is essential that Salah is not seen as a mere burden to be fulfilled but rather as a means of true spiritual connection with Allah.

How Salah Influences Personal Development

Many Muslims perform Salah daily, but not all may experience its full spiritual and moral impact. The key lies in understanding and performing Salah correctly with sincerity and devotion. Here’s how it aids in self-improvement:

1. Strengthens the Connection with Allah – When performed with complete devotion, Salah becomes a means of direct communication with Allah, bringing inner peace and spiritual strength.

2. Encourages Self-Discipline – Praying five times a day instills discipline and structure, helping individuals lead an organized life.

3. Purifies the Heart and Soul – Regular prayer cleanses the heart from negative thoughts, arrogance, and malice, making a person more compassionate and kind.

4. Develops a Sense of Accountability – Knowing that one has to stand before Allah regularly encourages ethical behavior and mindfulness in daily actions.

5. Provides Emotional and Mental Stability – Engaging in prayer helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression by fostering mindfulness and reliance on Allah’s mercy.

Can Salah Help Overcome Bad Habits and Sins?

There was a man who used to perform Tahajjud (late-night prayer) but would steal during the day. When the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was informed about him, he said:

"Very soon, his Salah will stop him from stealing."
(Reference: Tafsir Ibn Kathir)

After some time, the man repented and completely abandoned theft. This hadith shows how prayer gradually helps a person leave sins and bad habits behind.

Self-Reflection on Our Prayers

Nowadays, many people perform Salah regularly but still engage in various sins or immoral actions. According to the hadith, this means that there is some deficiency in their prayer. If they correct this deficiency and perform Salah with sincerity and proper etiquettes, then, as per Allah’s promise, Salah will certainly prevent them from evil deeds.

Thus, Salah is the best means for self-reform and moral development.

Making Salah a Transformative Experience

Salah is not just an obligation; it is a divine tool for self-improvement and spiritual elevation. By committing to sincere and mindful prayer, believers can experience profound personal growth, moral discipline, and a deeper connection with Allah.

Let us strive to perfect our Salah and experience its true impact in our lives. May Allah guide us in establishing our prayers with sincerity and devotion. Ameen.

A Prayer for Guidance

"O Allah, grant us the ability to perform Salah with all its outward and inward etiquettes so that we may benefit from its blessings in this world and the Hereafter. Ameen."

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FAQs on Jumu'ah Prayer: Sunnah and Nafl Rak'ahs with Hadith References

A common question arises regarding the number of Rak'ahs after the Fardh prayer of Jumu'ah—should it be 4 or 2? According to Islamic teachings, Jumu'ah prayer consists of 14 Rak'ahs in total. These include the obligatory Fardh, strongly recommended Sunnah Mu’akkadah, Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah, and optional Nafl prayers. Scholars highlight the importance of performing these Rak’ahs, as supported by Hadith and Islamic jurisprudence. Below are the detailed rulings on the Sunnah prayers of Jumu'ah, their significance, and the consequences of neglecting them.

 📌 Question asked by: Muhammad Shehzad Sheikh Sahib from Madhya Pradesh, Indore

📌 Answered by: Mufti Muhammad Shahid Barakat-e-Mehrati

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1️⃣ How many Rak'ahs are there in Jumu'ah prayer?

Answer: Jumu'ah prayer consists of 14 Rak'ahs in total:

• 2 Rak'ahs of Fardh (obligatory)
• 10 Rak'ahs of Sunnah (recommended)
• 2 Rak'ahs of Nafl (voluntary)

📖 Hadith Reference:
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
"Whoever performs the Jumu'ah prayer, let him pray four Rak'ahs after it."
📚 (Sahih Muslim, 881; Jami' at-Tirmidhi, 523)

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2️⃣ What are the Sunnah Rak'ahs before and after Jumu'ah?

Answer:

• Before Jumu'ah prayer: 4 Rak'ahs of Sunnah Mu’akkadah
• After Jumu'ah prayer:
  • 4 Rak'ahs of Sunnah Mu’akkadah
  • 2 Rak'ahs of Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah
  • 2 Rak'ahs of Nafl

📖 Hadith Reference:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"When one of you prays Jumu'ah, let him pray four Rak'ahs after it."
📚 (Sahih Muslim, 881)

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3️⃣ Is it mandatory to pray Sunnah after Jumu'ah?

Answer: Sunnah Mu’akkadah is highly recommended and should not be skipped without a valid reason. While not obligatory like Fardh, abandoning them regularly is discouraged and can be sinful. Some scholars even state that consistently neglecting Sunnah Mu’akkadah is close to Haram.

📖 Hadith Reference:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"Do not make your homes graveyards. Indeed, Satan flees from a house in which Surah Al-Baqarah is recited. Pray some of your prayers in your homes and do not abandon Sunnah prayers."
📚 (Sahih Muslim, 780; Sahih Bukhari, 6116)

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4️⃣ What is the best way to perform Sunnah after Jumu'ah?

Answer: The best practice is:
✔ Pray 4 Rak'ahs of Sunnah Mu’akkadah first
✔ Then pray 2 Rak'ahs of Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah

This ensures that all Hadith narrations regarding Sunnah after Jumu'ah are followed.

📖 Hadith Reference:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"Whoever among you wants to pray after Jumu'ah, let him pray four Rak'ahs."
📚 (Sunan Abu Dawood, 1122; Jami' at-Tirmidhi, 529)

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5️⃣ What happens if someone habitually skips Sunnah Mu’akkadah?

Answer: According to Islamic teachings:

• Skipping without a valid reason once makes a person blameworthy.
• Regularly neglecting them makes a person Fasiq (a sinner), whose testimony may not be accepted in legal matters.
• Some scholars state that abandoning Sunnah Mu’akkadah may deprive a person of the Prophet’s intercession on the Day of Judgment.

📖 Hadith Reference:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"Whoever abandons my Sunnah, he is not from me."
📚 (Sunan Ibn Majah, 10; Sahih Al-Bukhari, 6780)

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6️⃣ How many Sunnah Rak’ahs should be prayed daily?

Answer: Apart from Jumu'ah, the daily Sunnah prayers include:

• 2 Rak'ahs before Fajr
• 4 Rak'ahs before Zuhr, 2 after
• 2 Rak'ahs after Maghrib
• 2 Rak'ahs after Isha
• On Jumu'ah day, 4 before and 4 after Jumu'ah prayer

📖 Hadith Reference:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"A house will be built in Paradise for every Muslim who prays 12 Rak'ahs voluntarily every day and night, apart from the obligatory prayers."
📚 (Sahih Muslim, 728; Jami' at-Tirmidhi, 415)

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7️⃣ Where is this ruling mentioned in Islamic books?

Answer: The ruling on Sunnah Rak'ahs after Jumu'ah is found in:
📖 Fatawa Razaviya Jadeed (Vol. 8, Page 326)
📖 Bahar-e-Shariat (Vol. 4, Sunan-ul-Nawafil, Masa'il-e-Fiqh)
📖 Fathullah Al-Mu'in, Nahr, Uyun, Tajnees, and Jawahir-ul-Akhlati

📖 Hadith Reference:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"The most beloved acts to Allah are those performed consistently, even if they are small."
📚 (Sahih Bukhari, 6465; Sahih Muslim, 782)

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8️⃣ Is there any harm in praying extra Nafl Rak'ahs after Jumu'ah?

Answer: No, there is no harm in offering additional 2 Rak'ahs of Nafl after Jumu'ah. It is optional but highly rewarding.

📖 Hadith Reference:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"A servant is closest to his Lord while in prostration, so increase your supplications."
📚 (Sahih Muslim, 482; Jami' at-Tirmidhi, 3579)

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🔹 Final Words

Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) know best. May Allah guide us to follow the Sunnah, act upon the truth, and convey it to others.

📢 Share this with others to spread beneficial knowledge!

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Is Qiyam (Standing) Mandatory in Sunnah and Taraweeh Prayers?

Question: Is it true that Qiyam (standing) is not obligatory for Sunnah prayers? Can Sunnah prayers be offered while sitting without a valid excuse? Similarly, can Taraweeh prayers be performed while sitting due to fatigue?

This question was asked by Irfan Raza Sahib from Maharashtra, India and is answered by Mufti Muhammad Shahid Barakati, a renowned scholar of Islamic jurisprudence.

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Understanding the Obligation of Qiyam in Sunnah Prayers

In Islamic jurisprudence, the question of whether standing (Qiyam) is mandatory for Sunnah prayers often arises. Many believers wonder if they can perform Sunnah prayers while sitting, especially without a valid excuse. This article explores the scholarly consensus on this issue, particularly in relation to Taraweeh prayers during Ramadan.

Mufti Muhammad Shahid Barakati provides a detailed explanation based on authoritative Islamic texts, shedding light on the significance of Qiyam in Sunnah and voluntary (Nafl) prayers.

When is Qiyam Mandatory in Sunnah Prayers?

For specific Sunnah prayers such as the Sunnah of Fajr, Eid-ul-Fitr, and Eid-ul-Adha, Qiyam is obligatory. This means that these prayers must be performed while standing unless there is a genuine physical inability or excuse. Performing them while sitting without an excuse is not permissible.

However, for other Sunnah prayers, praying while sitting is allowed but is considered Makruh (disliked). According to Islamic scholars, choosing to sit without necessity reduces the reward of the prayer. If a person performs a Nafl prayer while sitting without an excuse, they will receive only half the reward compared to praying while standing.

The Ruling on Taraweeh Prayers

Taraweeh is a special Sunnah prayer performed during Ramadan. The majority of scholars agree that standing is strongly encouraged and should not be omitted without a valid excuse. Some scholars equate Taraweeh’s ruling to that of the Sunnah of Fajr, meaning that it should not be performed while sitting without necessity.

Islamic texts such as Durre Mukhtar and Fatawa Shami highlight that Qiyam in Taraweeh has a strong emphasis. It is stated that offering Taraweeh while sitting is akin to resembling the hypocrites, as indicated in Surah An-Nisa (4:142), which criticizes those who stand for prayer sluggishly.

Scholarly Opinions and References

Islamic jurists have debated whether offering Taraweeh while sitting is completely impermissible or merely disliked.

• Hanafi View: Imam Abu Hanifa and his student Imam Muhammad bin Hassan state that performing Taraweeh while sitting without an excuse is not permissible.

• Fatawa Hindia & Fatawa Alamgiri: These texts mention that while some scholars allow it, the reward is significantly reduced.

• Fatawa Razaviya: Imam Ahmad Raza Khan clarifies that the majority of scholars agree that offering Taraweeh while sitting is discouraged.

Importance of Standing in Taraweeh

The core purpose of Taraweeh is spiritual purification and devotion during Ramadan. Standing in prayer signifies humility, submission, and dedication to Allah. Scholars emphasize that while some allowances exist, standing should always be prioritized for greater spiritual rewards.

Conclusion: Should You Sit for Sunnah or Taraweeh?

In summary:

• Sunnah prayers of Fajr and Eid require Qiyam.

• Other Sunnah prayers can be performed while sitting, but this is disliked and reduces the reward.

• Taraweeh should ideally be performed while standing. Tiredness alone is not considered a valid excuse.

While flexibility exists in voluntary prayers, the ideal practice is to stand whenever possible, as this ensures full reward and aligns with the best practices of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

If you have further religious inquiries, you can reach out to Islamic scholars via the provided contact details.

Ask Your Questions:

If you have any Islamic, religious, or jurisprudence-related questions, you can contact Mufti Muhammad Shahid Barakati at:

📞 Phone & WhatsApp: +91 935871-4445
📧 Email: indian9837@gmail.com

Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.

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Jumma ki Namaz ki Rakat kitni hoti Hai | Sunnat Rakats in Jumma Prayer

 How many Sunnat rakats should be performed in Jumu'ah prayers? Jumma ki Namaz ki Rakat kitni hoti Hai? Understanding Sunnat Rakats in Jumu'ah Prayers: A Comprehensive Islamic Perspective

As-salamu alaykum to all readers seeking deeper understanding of our cherished rituals in Islam. Today, we delve into an important aspect of Jumu'ah prayers - the Sunnat rakats. A question often arises in the minds of many devout Muslims: How many Sunnat rakats should be performed in Jumu'ah prayers? Jumma ki Namaz ki Rakat kitni hoti Hai? This blog post aims to shed light on this topic, drawing from scholarly sources and interpretations within Islamic jurisprudence.

The Significance of Jumu'ah

Jumu'ah, the Friday prayer, holds a special place in the heart of Islamic worship. It's not just a prayer; it's a weekly spiritual assembly for Muslims, fostering community bonds and reinforcing their faith. The Khutbah (sermon) preceding the prayer is a time for spiritual guidance, while the prayer itself is a moment of collective worship and reflection.

The Number of Sunnat Rakats in Jumu'ah

In the structure of Jumu'ah prayers, Sunnat rakats play a crucial role. The total number of rakats in the Jumu'ah prayer is 14. This includes the obligatory Fard rakats and the Sunnat rakats. The Sunnat rakats are divided into those performed before and after the Fard prayer, reflecting their significance in the Islamic tradition.

Detailed Breakdown of the Rakats

A breakdown of the 14 rakats reveals a structured approach to Jumu'ah prayers:

- Four Sunnat rakats before the Fard prayer

- Two Fard rakats (the obligatory Jumu'ah prayer)

- Four Sunnat rakats after the Fard prayer

- Additional two Sunnat rakats before the four pre-Fard Sunnat rakats

- Two Nafil rakats (optional but recommended) 

This structure underscores the importance of Sunnat rakats in complementing the obligatory aspects of the prayer.

Insights from Fatawa Razwiya

Imam-e-Ahle Sunnat Ala Hazrat Shah Ahmad Raza Khan, in his authoritative text "Fatawa Razwiya", highlights the significance of these Sunnat rakats. His interpretations, rooted in the Hanafi school of thought, emphasize the importance of performing these Sunnat rakats, especially those after the Jumu'ah Fard prayer.

The Significance of Adhering to Sunnat Rakats

Adhering to the Sunnat rakats is not merely a ritualistic practice but a reflection of a devout Muslim's commitment to following the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) teachings. These Sunnat rakats represent an opportunity to deepen one's spiritual connection and seek additional blessings.

The Importance of Sunnat Rakats

The Sunnat rakats in Jumu'ah prayers hold immense spiritual value. They are seen as a way to emulate the Prophet's practice and to seek closeness to Allah. Neglecting these rakats without a valid reason is viewed as a deviation from the Prophet's teachings.

Prophetic Teachings on Sunnat Rakats with Hadith Reference

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "Whoever omits my Sunnah is not from me." (Sahih Bukhari and Muslim). This Hadith underlines the importance of adhering to the Sunnah, including the Sunnat rakats in Jumu'ah prayers. It serves as a stark reminder of the significance of these practices in the Islamic faith.

The teachings of Islam underscore the importance of not just the obligatory aspects of worship but also the Sunnat practices. The Sunnat rakats in Jumu'ah prayers are not just ritualistic acts; they are deeply rooted in the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and carry significant spiritual value. Adhering to these practices is a reflection of our commitment to the teachings of Islam and a path to spiritual enrichment.

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Can We Follow the Imam's Voice Through a Loudspeaker (Mic)?

🚦लाउड स्पीकर (माइक 🎤) की आवाज़ पर नमाज़ पढ़ना?🚦Can We Follow the Imam's Voice Through a Loudspeaker (Mic 🎤) in Namaz? Exploring the intricate question of following the Imam's voice via loudspeaker (mic 🎤) in Namaaz - A comprehensive insight.

In the modern era, the use of technology in religious practices has been a matter of scholarly debate. A pertinent question that has arisen among Islamists is the legality of using loudspeakers for namaz (prayer). This article explores this complex issue in depth through an analysis of respected Muslim scholars.

The main question

The crux of the debate centers on whether it is permissible for an imam to use a loudspeaker during prayer. Although loudspeakers are commonly used for sermons (khutbas) and lectures, their use during actual prayers raises theological questions.

Opinion of leading scholars

Respected Islamic scholars have expressed different views on this issue. This question was brought to light by Israr Khan Sahib of Delhi and discussed by Mufti Mohammad Shahid Barkati of Meerut. According to Islamic law, the use of loudspeakers is considered permissible by many scholars, while others accept it.

Arguments against loudspeakers

The main argument against using a loudspeaker is that the voice generated is not the actual voice of the person speaking. It is seen as an analogy and therefore does not comply with the Shariah requirements for voice in prayer. Eminent scholars like Shehazade Ala Hazrat Mufti-e-Azam-e-Hind Hazrat Allama Mustafa Raza Khan Sahib, Allama Mufti Hashmat Ali Lucknow, Fakir Azam-e-Hindi Sadrusharia Allama Mufti Amjad Ali Azmi, and others have expressed their concerns on the matter.

The importance of authenticity

These scholars emphasize the importance of sincerity in prayer. It is argued that just as the combined voice as heard from a mountain or forest is not considered equivalent to the original voice, the voice from a speaker is not considered as the true voice of the imam and this difference affects the integrity of the prayer .

Recommendations for Worship

Where a loudspeaker is considered necessary, these scholars advise arranging for a deputy (mukabbir) to assist the imam. Ministers are instructed to trust the voice itself

Imam and deputy, not amplified sounds from loudspeakers. This proposal aims to preserve the purity and authenticity of the prayer experience.

Historical context and judgment

The argument is not just contemporary; It has historical roots. The scholar Kamaluddin Ibn Hammam, who died in 861 AH (1457 A.D.), mentioned such matters in his writings. He pointed out that a verse in the Quran requiring prostration, if heard in a resounding voice, does not make prostration obligatory. This historical perspective reinforces the distinction between direct and indirect tone (or repetition) in Islamic jurisprudence.

A practical explanation of prayer

According to scholars against the use of loudspeakers, relying on the wrong voice during prayer invalidates prayer. It is compared to other external aids, such as reciting the Qur’an from a book or a wall while praying, which are also considered invalid

A balance of tradition and modernity

The discussion highlights the broader challenge facing the religious community today: balancing tradition and modernity. While loudspeakers and other technological developments can deliver religious messages in the long run, they also raise questions about adherence to traditional practices and interpretations

As technology continues to advance, such dialogue is essential to maintain the integrity of religious practices. The perspectives of these scholars provide valuable insights for Muslims grappling with these complex issues, emphasizing the need for a careful balance between innovation and tradition.

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