Salat- Prayers

Obligatory Prayers

In order to benefit directly from the Power of Allah Ta'ala, by fulfilling the Commandments of Allah Ta'ala in the way of Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam, Salat is the most important and basic action

Verses Of Quran

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
Verily Salat restrains (oneself) from immorality and all that is forbidden. [Al-'Ankabut 29: 45]

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
Indeed, those who believe and do righteous deeds, and establish Salat and give Zakat; their reward is with their Rabb (Sustainer & Cherisher), and neither fear shall come upon them, nor will they grieve. [Al-Baqarah 2: 277]

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala said to His Prophet Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam:
Tell My slaves who have believed, to establish Salat and spend from what We have provided them, secretly and publicly, before a Day comes in which there shall be no trading (i.e. ransom exchange), nor any friendship. [Ibrahim 14: 31]

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala quoted in Quran supplication of Ibrahim 'alaihis salam as:
O My Rabb! Make me an establisher of Salat, and from my descendents also. Our Rabb! And accept my Du'a (supplication).[Ibrahim 14: 40]

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala said to His Prophet Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam:
Perform Salat from midday till the darkness of the night (i.e. Zuhr, 'Asr, Maghrib and Isha prayers) and recite the Qur'an in the early dawn (i.e. the morning prayer). Verily, the recitation of the Qur'an in the early dawn is witnessed (by angels).[ Al-Isra' 17: 78]

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
(mentioning a virtue of successful believers) And they who carefully maintain (and are mindful of) their Salat. [Al-Mu'minun23: 9]

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
O you who believe! When the Adhan is called for the prayer on the day of Jumu 'ah (Friday), then hasten to the remembrance of Allah and leave all trading (and other engagements) aside. That is better for you, if you but knew. [Al-Jumu'ah 62:9]

Ahadith

1. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Islam has been built upon five pillars: 1) To testify that none is worthy of worship but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, 2) to establish Salat, 3) to give Zakat, 4) to perform Hajj, and 5) to fast (Saum) in Ramadan. (Bukhari)

2. Jubair Ibn Nufair Rahimahullah narrates that RasOlullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: It has not been revealed to me that I should amass wealth and be amongst the merchants, but it has been revealed to me: Glorify and praise your Rabb and be amongst those who prostrate themselves to Him and worship your Rabb till the certainty (death) comes to you. (Sharh-hus-Sunnah, Mishkat-ul-Masabih)

3. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that in reply to a question of Jibr'ail about Islam Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Islam is bearing witness that none is worthy of worship but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, and that you establish Salat, and give Zakat, and perform Hajj to the House of Allah and perform Umrah, and take bath after Janabah and perform complete Wudu, and Saum in Ramadan. Jibr'ail then said: If I do all of that, then am I a Muslim? He replied: Yes. Jibr'ail then confirmed: You have spoken the truth. (Ibn Khuzaimah)

Note: A person is in the state of Janabah after intercourse, or discharge of semen with passion while he is awake or asleep.

4. Qurrah Ibn Da'mus Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that we met Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam during the Farewell Hajj and asked: O Rasulallah! What do you enjoin upon us? He replied: I enjoin upon you to establish Salat, and give Zakat, and perform Hajj of the Sacred House of Allah, and Saum in Ramadan, as verily therein is a night superior to a thousand months; and likewise prohibit you from shedding the blood of a Muslim and a Mu'ahid or taking their property except to uphold justice; and advise you to hold fast to that Deen of Allah and adhere to obedience (of those who are steadfast in Deen). (Baihaqi)

Note: A Mu'ahid literally mean one who has entered into a treaty or alliance, referring to a non-muslim living in an Islamic country under the protection of the Islamic State, having entered into a pact with the state known as a pact of Dhimmah. As a token of his allegiance and submission to the state, he pays a minimal annual tax known as Jizyah, far less than the benefits and protection that is secured for him. He is also known by the title of Dhimmi. A non- muslim entering the Islamic State for a temporary period, under the protection and guarantee of any Muslim, similarly enjoys protection of his life, wealth and dignity.

The life, wealth, and honour of every Muslim as well as non- muslims under the conditions previously mentioned are deemed sacred and protected, with the exception of crimes that require compensation for the same, such as the death penalty for the murderer, and monetary compensation for destruction of another's property etc.

5. Jabir Ibn 'Abdullah Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that NabI Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The key to Paradise is Salat and the key to Salat is Wudu. (Musnad Ahmad)

6. Anas Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The comfort and delight of my eyes has been placed in Salat. (Nasai).

7. 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Salat is a pillar of Deen. (Hilyat-ul-Awliya, Jami-us-Saghir)

8. Ali Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that the last words of Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam were: As-Salat, as-Salat;[1] fear Allah about those whom your right hand possesses (your slaves and subordinates). (AbuDawud)

Note: 1. Vigilantly observe, guard and establish Salat.

9. Abu Umamah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam returned from Khyber and with him were two slaves. So, Ali Radiyallahu 'anhu said: O Rasulallah! Grant us a servant. He replied: Take anyone you desire of the two. 'Ali said: Choose for me. Rasullullah pointing to one said: Take him, but do not beat him; for I saw him offering Salat on our return from Khyber, and I have been forbidden to beat those who perform Salat. (Musnad Ahmad, Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

10. 'Ubadah Ibn Samit Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: Five times Salat has been made mandatory by Allah 'Azza wa Jalil. He who performs his Wudu well, and offers Salat at their appointed time, performing complete Ruku', and with fear and devotion, for such there is a covenant from Allah, that He will forgive him; and the one who does not do so, no covenant for him is with Allah. If He wills, He may forgive him and if He wills, He may punish him. (Abu Dawud)

11. Hanzalah Al Usaidi Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The person who guards the five times Salat, its Wudu, its prescribed time, its proper Ruku' and Sujud, while perceiving it to be the Right of Allah on him, he is forbidden upon Fire. (Musnad Ahmad)

12. Abu Qatadah Ibn Rib'i Radiyallahu 'anhu reported that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam narrates in a Hadith Qudsi that Allah 'Azza wa Jalil has said: Verily, I have enjoined upon your Ummah five times Salat, and I have taken upon myself an oath that anyone who observes them at their appointed time, I shall admit him into Paradise; if anyone does not offer them regularly, there is no such guarantee from Me for him (I may punish him or forgive him) (Abu Dawud)

13. 'Uthman Ibn 'Affan Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who believes that Salat is the obligatory right (of Allah) will enter Paradise. (Musnad Ahmad, Abu Ya'la, Bazzar, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

14. 'Abdullah Ibn Qurt Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: On the Day of Judgement, the first thing a slave of Allah will be held accountable for is Salat. If it is found sound and satisfactory, the rest of his deeds will also be sound - and satisfactory, and if found corrupt and rotten, then the rest of his deeds will also be corrupt and rotten. (Tabarani, Targhib)

15. Jabir Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that a man said to Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam: Verily so and so offers Salat, then at the break of dawn he steals. He replied: Shortly his Salat will prevent him from that sin. (Bazzar, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

16. Salman Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Verily a Muslim, when he performs Wudu and performs it excellently, then offers the five times Salat, his sins are shed iust as these leaves shed. Then, he recited: And perform Salat at the two ends of the day and in some hours of the night (the five mandatory Salat); verily good deeds remove evil deeds. This is a reminder (advice) for the mindful (those who accept advice). (Hud 11: 114) (Musnad Ahmad)

Note: According to some scholars, 'two ends' means two parts. The first part stands for Fajr Salat, and the second part for Zuhr and 'Asr Salat. Performing Salat in some hours of the night stands for Maghrib and Tsha Salat. (Tafsir Ibn Kathir)

17. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The five times Salat and the prayer of Friday to Friday, and the fasting of Ramadan to Ramadan, are atonements for sins that have been committed between them, provided the sinner avoids major sins. (Muslim).

18. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who guards the obligatory Salat will not be written amongst the neglectful, (lbn Khuzaimah)

19. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Amr Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that one day, Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam mentioned Salat and said: For him who remains mindful of his Salat, it will be a light and an argument in his favour and a means of his salvation on the Day of Judgement; and for him who is not mindful of his Salat, there shall be neither a light, nor an argument in his favour, nor a means for his salvation. And on the Day of Judgement, he will be with Fir'aun, Haman and Ubayy Ibn Khalaf. (Musnad Ahmad, Tabarani, Majma'uz- Zawaid)

Note: Fir'aun was the king of Egypt at the time of Musa 'Alaihis salam, Haman was his minister, and Ubayy Ibn Khalaf was an ardent idolater and adversary of Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam.

20. Abu Malik Al Ashja'i narrates from his father Radiyallahu 'anhuma, who said that whenever a man accepted Islam during the time of Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam, the Sahabah used to teach him Salat. (Tabarani)

21. Abu Umamah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam was asked: O Rasulallah! At what time is Du'a the most readily listened to and accepted? He replied: The one made during the course of latter part of the night, and after the obligatory Salat. (Tirmidhi)

22. Abu Sa'id Al Khudri Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: The five Salat are an atonement for the minor sins committed between them. Then he said: A man goes to work and between his house and his place of work are five streams. When he reaches his place of work and labours there to the extent, that Allah willed, he becomes dirty and sweaty. Then, (on his way back) he passes by the streams, bathing in all, and this repeated bathing leaves no dirt or sweat on him. Salat is just like that. Whenever, someone commits a sin, and performs Salat, makes Du'a, and asks forgiveness, then he is forgiven for the sins he committed preceding the Salat. (Bazzar, Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

23. Zaid Ibn Thabit Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that we were commanded by Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam to say after every obligatory Salat, Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah who is above all faults) 33 times, Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah) 33 times, and Alldhuakbar (Allah is the Greatest) 34 times. One Ansari dreamt that someone asked him: Has Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam commanded you to say Subhanallah 33 times, Alhamdulillah 33 times, and Alldhuakbar 34 times after every obligatory Salat? He (the Ansdri) said: Yes. The voice in the dream said: Make it 25 times each, and add with it, La ildha illalldh (None is worthy of worship but Allah) 25 times. In the morning, when he went and narrated his dream to Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam, the Prophet said: Do so. (Tirmidhi)

24. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that once some poor emigrants came to Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam and said: The rich have attained the highest ranks and eternal bounties of Allah. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: How is that? They replied: They offer Salat like we offer Salat, and they fast like we fast, and they give charity and we cannot give charity, and they set slaves free and we cannot set slaves free. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Should I not teach you something through which you would join those who surpassed you; and keep ahead of those who are after you, and nobody can be better than you unless he also does the same? The Sahabah said: Do tell us. So, Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Recite Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, and Alldhuakbar thirty three times each, after every obligatory Salat. Abu Salih said: The poor emigrants returned to Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam and said: Our rich brothers have heard what we did, and have done the same. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam then said: This is Allah's blessing which He bestows on whosoever He wills. (Muslim)

25. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who recites Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah who is above all faults) 33 times, Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah) 33 times and Allahuakbar (Allah is Greatest) 33 times, which makes a total of 99 times, and then recites once (the following) to complete 100, his sins will be forgiven, even if they are as much as the foam of the sea.

La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu, lahul mulku, wa lahul-hamdu, wa Huwa 'ala kulli shai'in Qadir (None is worthy of worship but Allah, He is One, He has no partner, His is the Kingdom, and for Him is all the Praise, and He has power over all things.) (Muslim)

26. Fadl Ibn Hasan Damn Rahimahullah says that one of the two daughters of Zubair Ibn 'Abdul Muttalib, Umrae Hakam or Duba'ah, Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that some prisoners were brought to Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam. I, my sister and, Fatima, daughter of Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam, went to him and explained our difficulties, and asked for some prisoners for (domestic) help. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: As for the servants, the orphans of Badr are more deserving than you, but I will tell you something better than a servant; after every Salat, recite: Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah. Who is above all faults), Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah) and Allahuakbar (Allah is Greatest) 33 times each, and recite once ( the following): La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu, lahul mulku, wa lahul-hamdu, wa Huwa 'ala kulli shai'in Qadir (None is worthy of worship but Allah; He is One, He has no partner, His is the Kingdom, and for Him is all the Praise, and He has power over all things.) (Abu Dawud)

27. Ka'b Ibn 'Ujrah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Some phrases, when said after Salat, are such that whoever says them will never be disappointed. These are Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah Who is above all faults) 33 times, Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah) 33 times and Allahuakbar (Allah is the Greatest) 34 times after every obligatory Salat. (Muslim)

28. Saib Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates from 'Ali Radiyallahu 'anhu that when Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam married him to Fatima Radiyallahu 'anha, she was seen-off with (a dowry of) a bed sheet, a leather pillow filled with date-bark, two grindstones, a leather water bag, and two large earthen pots. 'Ali Radiyallahu 'anhu one day said to Fatima Radiyallahu 'anha: I swear by Allah! Due to pulling of buckets from the well, I feel pain in my chest. Allah has sent some prisoners to your father, go and ask him for a servant. Fatima Radiyallahu 'anha said: My hands are also calloused due to turning the grindstone. At that, she went to Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam. He asked: Dear daughter, what brought you here? She said: "I have come to offer my Salam". But due to her shyness, she could not ask him anything and returned. 'Ali Radiyallahu 'anhu asked her: What happened? She said: I felt shy to ask him. Then we went to Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam together. 'Ali Radiyallahu 'anhu said: Rasulallah! Due to drawing water from the well I feel pain in my chest. Fatima Radiyallahu 'anha said: Due to frequently turning the grindstone my hands are calloused; Allah has sent you slaves and granted some ease; please give us a servant. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: I swear by Allah! I will not give you; the people of Suffah are suffering pangs of hunger, and I have nothing to spend on them. Therefore, I will sell these slaves and spend that money on the people of Suffah. So we returned. At night both of us were sleeping in a small blanket such that when our heads were covered, our legs used to bare, and when our legs were covered, our heads used to be exposed. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam came to us. Both of us started to get up hurriedly. He said: Remain at your place. You asked for a servant, should I not tell you something better than what you asked? We said: Do tell us. He said: Jibrail 'Alaihis Salam has taught me a few words. Both of you say after every Salat, ten times Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah who is above all faults), ten times Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah), and ten times Allahuakbar (Allah is the Greatest). And when you lie down on your bed, then say 33 times Subhanalldh, 33 times Alhamdulillah and 33 times Allahuakbar. 'Ali Radiyallahu 'anhu said: I swear by Allah! Ever since Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam taught me these words, I have never forgotten to say them. Ibnul Kawa' Rahimahullah asked him: And not even on the night of the Battle of Siffin? He said: May Allah curse you! O people of Iraq! Yes, and not even on the night of the Battle of Siffin. (Musnad Ahmad)

29. Abdullah Ibn 'Amr Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Two qualities are such that if a Muslim adopts them, he will certainly enter Paradise. Both of them are easy but those who practice them are very few. One is that after every Salat say Subhanalldh (Glory be to Allah Who is above all faults) ten times, Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah) ten times, and Allahuakbar (Allah is the Greatest) ten times. 'Abdullah says: I saw Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam counting them on his fingers. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: This means one hundred and fifty on the tongue and fifteen hundred on the scale of deeds. (The second quality is that) When one goes to bed he says Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah and Allahuakbar for a total of one hundred times. These are one hundred on the tongue and one thousand on the Scale, so who would be committing two thousand five hundred sins in a day?

'Abdullah Radiyallahu 'anhu asked: O Rasullullah! Why is it that these two qualities are not adopted? He replied: The Shaitaan comes to one while he is in Salat and says remember so and so, remember so and so, until he becomes preoccupied and thus becomes unmindful of saying these words; and Shaitan comes to him on his bed and continuously lulls him to sleep. (Ibn Hibban)

30. Mu'adh Ibn Jabal Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam took his hand and said: O Mu'adh! I swear by Allah, indeed I love you. Then he said: O Mu'adh! I advise you never to forget saying these words after every Salat: allahumma inni ala zikrika wa shukrika wa husni ibadatik (O Allah! Help me in remembering You, and in thanking You, and in attaining excellence in worshiping You.) (Abu Dawud)

31. Abu Umamah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who recites Ayatul Kursi after every obligatory Salat, nothing but death restrains him from entering Paradise. In another narration: Qul hu wallahu Ahad is to be recited after Ayatul Kursi. ('Amalul Yaumi wal Lailah by Nasai, Tabarani , Majma'uz- Zawaid)

32. Hasan Ibn 'Ali Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who recites Ayatul Kursi after obligatory Salat, is in the protection of Allah till the next Salat. (Tabarani , Majma'uz-Zawaid)

33. Abu Ayyub Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that whenever I offered Salat behind Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam, I heard him saying this Du'a after completing his Salat : O Allah! Forgive all my mistakes and sins. O Allah! Uplift me, and correct my shortcomings, and guide me towards good deeds and excellent manners; no one except You can guide towards good, nor turn away from evil. (Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

34. Abu Musa Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who offers the Salat of two cool times, enters Paradise. (Bukhari)

Note: The Salat of two cool times refers to 'Asr, the beginning of the cooler hours of the day, and Fajr which is at the end of the cool hours of the night. Fajr Salat is difficult to offer because of the tendency to go to sleep at this time, and 'Asr is difficult because this is the time of intense worldly pre-occupation. He who is constant in performing these two Salats will more easily maintain the other three. (Mirqat-ul-Mafatih)

35. Ruwaibah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: Undoubtedly he will not enter Hell-Fire, who has offered Salat before the rising of the sun, and before its setting; that is Fajr and 'Asr. (Muslim)

36. Abu Dhar Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever after Fajr Salat, while maintaining the posture of sitting in Salat and before talking with anyone, says ten times:La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu, lahul mulku, wa lahul-hamdu, yuhyi waimeetu, wa Huwa 'ala kulli shai'in Qadir ( None is worthy of worship but Allah, He is alone, He has no partner, His is the Kingdom, for Him is all the Praise, He alone gives life, and He alone gives death, and He has power over everything.) Then, ten virtues are recorded for him, and ten sins are erased, and his ranks are raised by ten degrees, and he is protected from every undesirable and unpleasant thing and also from Shaitan, and that day he will not be taken to account for any sin except polytheism.

In another narration, the words bihdil khair (In Whose Hand is all that is good) are in place of yuhyi waimeetu (He alone gives life and He alone gives death).

It is also narrated that every time he says this phrase, he receives a reward of freeing a slave. On saying these words after 'Asr he gets the reward for the whole night as he gets the reward for the whole day on saying them after Fajr. (Tirmidhi, 'Amalul Yaumi wal Lailah by Nasai)

37. Jundub Al Qasri Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who offers the Fajr Salat, is indeed in the Protection of Allah (so do not trouble those who are under Allah's Protection); for you will be answerable to Allah for violating this protection; because undoubtedly, if He takes anyone to account for violating this protection, He will catch him and fling him headlong on his face into the Hell-Fire. (Muslim)

38. Muslim Ibn Harith At-tamimiyi Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam told him secretly: When you complete the Maghrib Salat, then recite seven times this Du'a:Allahumma Ajirna Minan Naar (O Allah! Protect me from the Fire). After saying this if you happen to die the same night, you will be protected from the Fire. When you have offered your Fajr Salat repeat the same. For undoubtedly, if you happen to die the same day, you will be protected from the Fire. (Abu Dawud)

Note: Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam by giving this advice secretly wanted to stress its importance.

39. Umme Farwah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam was asked: Which is the best of the good deeds? He said: To offer Salat at the beginning of its prescribed time. (Abu Dawud).

40. 'Ali Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: O People of the Qur'an! Offer Witr Salat, for verily Allah is Witr, and He loves the Witr. (Abu Dawud)

Note: Witr in Arabic refers to His Oneness, that is being without partners. Allah also loves actions done in odd numbers. Many examples of it are found in Shari'ah and Sunnah. Witr Salat is loved by Allah because it has an odd number of Rak'at. (Majma' Bihar-ul-Anwar)

41. Kharijah Ibn Hudhafah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that one day Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam came to us and said: Allah has granted you an additional Salat, which is better for you than red camels; this Salat is Al-Witr. Allah has appointed its time between 'Isha Salat and the break of dawn. (Abu Dawud)

Note: The Arabs considered red camels to be a most valuable and desirable commodity.

42. Abu Darda Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that my friend, Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam, enjoined me three things: To fast three days every month, to offer the Witr Salat before sleep, and to offer two Rak 'at Sunnah of Fajr. (Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

Note: It is better for those who have developed the habit of awakening at night, to offer their Witr Salat at the time of Tahajjud that is before the beginning time of Fajr Salat. As for those, who have not developed this habit, they should offer their Witr Salat before sleeping.

43. Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: There is no (perfect) Iman for one who has no trustworthiness, and there is no Salat for one who has no Wudu, and there is no Deen for one who has no Salat. The status of Salat in Deen is like the status of the head in a body. (Tabarani, Targhib)

44. Jabir Ibn Abdullah Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: Between man and (his entering into) polytheism and unbelief is the abandonment of Salat. (Muslim)

Note: Scholars of Islam have offered several explanations to this hadlth. One is that a person who abandons Salat becomes increasingly arrogant and bold in committing sins, which may endanger his faith. Another explanation is that the one who abandons Salat runs the risk of an evil end. (Mirqat-ul-Mafatih)

45. Ibn 'Abbas Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who abandons Salat shall meet Allah in a state that Allah will be very angry with him. (Bazzar, Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

46. Naufal Ibn Mu'awiya Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The person who missed even one Salat is as though he has been deprived of his entire family and wealth. (Ibn Hibban)

47. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Amr ibn A's narrates from his father, who heard from his grandfather Radiyallahu 'anhuma, who narrated that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Command your children when they are seven years old, to perform Salat; and beat them for not observing it when they are ten years old. And at this age separate their beds (i.e. do not let brothers and sisters sleep together). (Abu Dawud)

Note: Beating should not cause bodily harm.

Salat in Jama'ah - Salat in Congregation

Verse Of Quran

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
And establish Salat and give Zakat, and bow with those who bow in worship (i.e. pray in congregation).[Al-Baqarah 2: 43]

Ahadith

48. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrated that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The Muadhdhin will recieve forgivness to the distance to which his voice reaches. All living and non-living things shall bear witness for him on the Day of Resurrection. He, who attends Salat in congregation, for him is written the reward of twenty five Salat, and it becomes an atonement for his sins between two Salat (Abu Dawud)

Note: According to some Scholars the reward of twenty-five Salat is for the Muadhdhin, and he gets forgiveness of his sins from the previous Adhan to this Adhan. (Badhl-ul-Majhud)

49. Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The Muadhdhin will receive forgiveness to the extent the voice of his Adhan reaches; every living and non-living thing that hears his voice, supplicates for his forgiveness. In another narration it is stated: Every living and non-living thing replies to his Adhan. (Musnad Ahmad, Tabarani, Bazzar, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

50. Abu Sa'sa'ah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Abu Sa'id Radiyallahu 'anhu said: When you are in a desert or countryside, then call the Adhan loudly, as I have heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: No tree or clod of earth, or rock, or Jinn, or man shall hear his voice; except that they will bear witness for him on the Day of Resurrection. (Ibn Khuzaimah)

51. Bara Ibn 'Azib Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Verily, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the persons of the first row. The one who calls Adhan receives forgiveness to the extent to which he raises his voice. All living and non-living things, who hear his call, testify to it. And for him is a reward equivalent to all those who perform Salat with him. (Nasal)

Note: One interpretation of the second sentence of this hadith is that the Muadhdhin shall receive forgiveness for his sins to the extent that his voice reaches. Another interpretation is that the sins of the people living within the range of his voice will be forgiven by virtue of his intercession. (Badhl-ul-Majhud)

52. Mu'awiya Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: The Muadhdhins will have the longest necks amongst the people on the Day of Resurrection. (Muslim)

Note: Islamic Scholars have mentioned several interpretations to this hadith:

1. As people go to the masjid to offer Salat in response to the Adhan of the Muadhdhin, it is as though he is their leader and they are his followers. A leader is like a chief who has a long neck, which makes his head prominent.

2. The Muadhdhin shall raise his head high, longing to gaze at his magnificent reward, thus giving the appearance of the longest neck.

3. The Muadhdhin shall hold his head high as he has nothing to regret by virtue of his calling the Adhan. Whereas the one who regrets, or is ashamed of his actions, lowers his head in humility and shame.

4. The longest neck is an allegorical description, depicting the Muadhdhin as the most prominent of all on the Plain of Reckoning. Still others have mentioned that the Muadhdhins will proceed speedily towards Paradise. (Nawawi)

53. Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who calls the Adhan for twelve years, Paradise is guaranteed for him and sixty blessings will be recorded for every Adhan, and thirty blessings will be recorded for every Iqamah. (Mustadrak Hakim)

54. Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Three persons shall neither be terrified by the greatest horror of the Day of Resurrection, nor shall they be made to render an account of their deeds, (and) they will be upon mounds of Musk until the reckoning of creation is completed. One who recites the Qur'an only to please Allah and leads Salat in a manner pleasing to his followers. The other is he who calls towards Salat, only to please Allah. And the third is he who maintains a good relationship with his Rabb, and also with his subordinates. (Tirmidi, Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

55. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Three persons will be upon mounds of Musk on the Day of Resurrection, envied by all the former and latter people. The man who calls Adhan for the five times Salat during the day and night; and the man who leads the Salat in a manner that people are pleased with him; and a slave who had fulfilled the rights of Allah and the rights of his master. (Tirmidi)

56. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The Imam is responsible and the Muadhdhin is entrusted. O Allah! Guide the Imams and forgive the Muadhdhins. (Abu Dawud)

Note: The Imam is responsible, means that besides his personal Salat, he bears the responsibility of the Salat of those behind him. Therefore the Imam should perfect his Salat as far as is humanly possible both outwardly and inwardly. In the light of this important responsibility, Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam made a Du'a for the guidance of the Imams. The Muadhdhin is entrusted means that people have placed their trust on the Muadhdhin regarding the timings of the Salat and Saum. Therefore, it is essential for the Muadhdhin to be particular in calling the Adhan at its proper time. However, being human, he may inadvertently err. Hence, Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam has made a Du'a for his forgiveness. (Badhl-ul-Majhud)

57. Jabir Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: Verily when the Shaitan hears the Adhan, he flees until he reaches the place Rauha. Sulaiman Rahimahullah said: I asked Jabir about Rauha. He replied that it is thirty-six miles from Madinah. (Muslim)

58. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Shaitan flees on hearing the call for Salat, loudly breaking wind, until he no longer hears the Adhan. When the Adhan is completed, he returns until the Iqamah is called. He then again flees until the Iqamah is completed; then he again returns to distract the attention of the man engaged in Salat, interjecting in his mind, saying: Remember such and such, remember such and such; reminding him of things which he had previously forgotten or was unaware of, until the man is unable to recall how many Rak'at he has prayed. (Muslim)

59. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: If people knew what blessings lie in the Adhan and the first row, and they could not achieve this (distinction) except by casting lots, they would certainly do so.(Bukhari)

60. Salman Al Farsi Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: If a man is in a jungle and the time of Salat approached, he should perform Wudu, and if he does not find water, then he should perform Tayammum. If he calls the Iqamah, both his angels (who record his deeds) offer Salat with him. And if he calls the Adhan and Iqamah, such a vast number of Allah's forces (angels) will perform Salat with him that the two ends of their rows would not be seen. (Musannaf 'Abdur-Razzaq)

61. 'Uqbah Ibn 'Amir Radiyallahu 'anhu reports that he heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam narrating a Hadith Qudsi: Your Rabb is pleased with the shepherd who calls the Adhan upon the peak of a mountain and offers Salat. Allah 'Azza wa Jal ! exclaims to the angels: Look at this slave of Mine who calls the Adhan and the Iqamah for Salat and he fears Me. I have forgiven him and entered him into Paradise. (Abu Dawud)

62. Sahl Ibn Sa'd Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Two things are never rejected or seldom rejected; Du'a at the time of Adhan and at the time when people are locked in a furious battle. (Abu Dawud)

63.Sa'd Ibn Abi Waqqas Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The one who hears the Muadhdhin and responds with (the following), his sins will be forgiven.

I bear witness that none is worthy of worship but Allah, Who is Alone, without any partner; and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger; and I am pleased with Allah as Rabb, and Muhammad as Messenger, and Islam as Deen. (Muslim).

64. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: We were with Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam and Bilal called the Adhan. When he finished, Rasullullah Sallallahu- 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever says the same with complete belief and conviction, will enter into Paradise. (Miustadrak Hakim)

Note: From this narration, it appears that in reply to the Adhan, one should repeat the exact words of the Muadhdhin. However, a narration of 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhu clarifies that in reply to Hayya-'Alas-Salat, Hayya-'Alal-Falah one should say La haula wala quwwata ilia billah (I have no strength to do good or protect myself from evil, except by the power of Allah). (Muslim)

65. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Amr Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that a man said: O Rasulallah! Indeed, the Muadhdhins have excelled us (as regards the reward of the Hereafter). Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam replied: Say the same words as they say, and when you come to the end, ask (from Allah) and you will be granted. (Abu Dawud)

66. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Amr ibn 'As Radiyallahu 'anhunia narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: When you hear the Muadhdhin, repeat what he says, and then send salawat upon me. For indeed he who sends one salawat on me will receive ten blessings from Allah; then ask Allah to give me the Wasilah, which is a rank in Paradise befitting only one of Allah's slaves, and I hope that I may be that one. If anyone asks that I may be given the Wasilah, he will be assured of my intercession. (Muslim)

67. Jabir ibn 'Abdullah Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: If anyone says when he hears the Adhan:

O Allah, Rabb of this perfect call, and of the prayers which is established for all times, grant Muhammad the Wasilah and excellency and raise him up in a praiseworthy position which You have promised.

He will be assured of my intercession., In another narration the following words are added: (Undoubtedly, You never go back on Your words). (Bukhari, Baihaqi)

68. Jabir Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When the Muadhdhin calls the Adhan, whosoever says as follows (after the Adhan), Allah will accept his Duo.

O Rabb of this complete calling and Salat which is full of benefits, bestow blessings upon Muhammad and be eternally pleased with him after which You will never be displeased. (Musnad Ahmad)

69. Anas ibn Malik Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: A Du'a made between the Adhan and the lqamah is never rejected. The Sababah asked: What Dua should we make, O Rasullullah? He replied: Ask Allah for 'Afiyah (well being) in this world and in the Hereafter. (Tirmidi)

70. Jabir Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When the Iqamah for Salat is being said, the doors of the skies are opened, and Du'a is accepted., (Musnad Ahmad)

71. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that whoever performs Wudu and performs it excellently, then goes out intending Salat, undoubtedly he is in Salat, as long as he intends Salat. Undoubtedly, for one step a good deed is written and for the next step an evil deed is erased. When anyone of you hears the lqamah, he must not run. For undoubtedly, whose house is the farthest will get the greatest reward. Those present asked: Why is that so O Abu Hurairah? He said: Because of the greater number of footsteps. (Muatta Imam Malik)

72. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Abul Qasim (Rasullullah) Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When one of you performed Wudu in his house, and then came to the masjid, he was in Salat until he returns. Therefore, he should not do like this and Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam placed the fingers of one hand into the other. (Mustadrak Hakim)

Note: Just as such an action of the hands is undesirable and inconsistent with Salat, similarly such actions are undesirable while one is proceeding towards Salat. The reason being that when one is proceeding to perform Salat. he is virtually engaged in Salat.

73. Said ibn Musayyib Rahimahullah narrates on the authority of an Ansari SahabiT: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: When one of you performs Wudu and performs it well and goes out to offer Salat, then for every right foot he lifts, Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala records a virtue for him. And for every left foot he puts on the ground, a sin is erased. He has the choice to take short steps or long ones. Then he comes to the masjid and offers Salat ( in congregation, he will be forgiven: And if he reaches the masjid and finds that people have already offered a part of their Salat, yet a part remains, he joins the remaining part of the Salat, and thereafter completes that which he had missed. He too gets the same reward of Salat. And if he comes to the masjid and finds that people have finished their Salat; so he completes his individual Salat, he too gets the same reward. (Abu Dawud) .

74. Abu Umama Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: One who leaves his house having Wudu to offer obligatory Salat, his reward is like that of a persists performingHajj in the state of Ihram. And the one who goes out, bearing the hardship, solely to offer Salat Ad-Duha, he gets the reward as that of a person performing Umrah. And the offering of Salat after a previous Salat uninterrupted by any irrelevant talk or action, is recorded in (an auspicious register of righteous deeds). (Abu Dawud)

Note: 1. Ihram pertains to numerous constraints imposed on those who travel for Hajj and 'Umrah to Makkah. 2. Duha Salat is a Nafl (optional) prayer before mid-day.

75. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever amongst you performs Wudu well, and completes it to perfection, then goes to the masjid with the sole intention to offer Salat, then Allah is overjoyed with him, as the family of an absent relative is overjoyed by his sudden appearance. (Ibn Khuzaimah)

76. SaIman Radiyallahu `anhu narrates that Nabi SallaIlahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who performs Wudu in his house and performs it well, then comes to the masjid, he is the guest of Allah, and it is obligatory upon the Host to extend hospitality to his guest. (Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

77. Jabir ibn Abdullah Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that some plots of land surrounding the Masjid of Nabi SallaIlahu 'alaihi wasallam were vacant. Banu Salimah intended to shift close to the masjid. When this news reached Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam, he said to them: I have come to know that you intend to shift close to the masjid. They replied: O Rasullullah! Yes indeed, we wanted this. Then he said: O Bani Salimah! Keep living in your houses, your footsteps are recorded as good deeds. Keep living in your houses, your footsteps are recorded as good deeds. (Muslim)

78. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anliu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Anyone of you who leaves his home to come to my masjid, for every footstep it virtue is written, and for every other footstep a sin is erased, until he returns. (lbn Hibban)

79. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Sadaqah is due on each joint of man everyday the sun rises. He (then) said: When you impart justice between two persons, it is Sadaqah; and when you help a person mount his animal or to lift and place his belongings upon, it is a Sadaqah. He added: And a good word is a Sadaqah; and every footstep you take for Salat is a Sadaqah, and when you remove an obstacle from the path, it is a Sadaqah. (Muslim)

80. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu `anhu narrates that Rasalullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Verily, Allah will illuminate those who make their way to the masjids in darkness, with a brilliant light on the Day of Resurrection. (Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

81.Ahu Hurairah Radiyallahu `anhu narrates that Rasalullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Those who frequent the masjids in darkness, undoubtedly are the people who are immersed in Allah's Mercy. (Ibn Majah, Targhib)

82. Buraidah Radiyallahu `anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Good tidings for those who frequent the masjids darkness, of complete Noor (light) on the Day of Resurrection. (Abu Dawud)

83. Abu Said Al-Khudri Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallanm said: Should I not guide you to the means by which Allah forgives sins and increases good deeds? They replied: O Rasullullah! Please do so. He said: Performing complete Wudu even in difficulty, and taking many footsteps to the masjid, and after offering one Salat waiting for the next. And whosoever leaves his house in a state of Wudu till he reaches the masjid, then offers Salat in congregation with the Muslims and waits for the next Salat; it is for him that the angels say: O Allah! forgive him, O Allah! Have Mercy upon him. (Ibn Hibban)

84. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam told his companions: Should I not guide you to those deeds by which Allah removes sins and raises ranks? They said: O Rasulallah! Please tell us. He said: Performing complete Wudu in difficult circumstances, and taking many footsteps towards the masjid, and waiting for the next Salat after one Salat is Ribat. (Muslim)

Note: The well known meaning of Ribat is to take part in the defence of the Islamic frontiers which is undoubtedly a noble action. In this hadith Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam has apparently referred to their actions as Ribat because just as soldiers guard the frontiers, so also by his actions, a man guards himself against the onslaught of the Shaitan and Nafs (innerself). (Mirqatul-Mafith)

85. 'Uqbah ibn 'Arnir Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When a man performs Wudu, then comes to the masjid and waits to offer Salat, his two scribes or one of them records for him ten good deeds for every step taken towards the masjid. And the person sitting in anticipation of Salat is as the one engaged in worship, and from the time that he left his house until he returns to it, he will be counted amongst those engaged in Salat. (Musnad Ahmad)

86. Mu'adh ibn Jabal Radiyallahu anhu narrates in a Hadith Qudsi from Nabi SallaIlahu `alaihi wasallam that Allah Subbanahu wa Ta'ala said: O Muhammad! I said: I am here at Your service O my Rabb ! He said: In what matter is the Highest Assembly (Arch Angels) disputing? I replied: Concerning the acts of atonement. He said: And what are they? I replied: The steps taken towards the Janza`ah and sitting in masjids waiting for the next Salat and performing complete Wudu even in difficult circumstances. He then said: in what else are they disputing'? I said: Serving of food (in hospitality), and gentleness in speech, and Salat at night while people are asleep. He then said: Ask! I said (in supplication):

O Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala Verily I ask of You to enable me to do righteous acts, and abstain from forbidden acts, and to grant me the love of the poor; and that You forgive me and have Mercy on me. And if ever You intend to afflict a people with a severe tribulation, take my life unafflicted. And I ask You for Your love, and the love of he who loves You; and the love of an act that will bring me close to Your love.

Rasalullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam (then) said: Verily it is the truth, so say it repeatedly to memorize it. (Trimidi)

87. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: A person amongst you gets the reward of Salat, so as long as he keeps on waiting for Salat. Angels Pray for him : O Allah! Forgive him, bestow Mercy upon him. This continues as long as he remains in the state of Wudu or leaves the place of Salat (Bukhari)

 

88. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu `anhu narrates that Rasullullah SallaIlahu `alaihi wasallam said: A person, after performing Salat, remains waiting for the next Salat, is like a horseman whose steed rapidly charges him in the Path of Allah Subbanahu wa Ta'ala, and he is in a great Ribat, that is, defence of Islamic Frontiers (meaning thereby that he is protecting society and himself from Nafs and Shaitan ). (Musnad Ahmad, Tabarani, Targhib)

89. 'Irbadh ibn Sariyah Radiyallahu `anhu narrates thatRasullullah SallaIlahu `alaihi wasallam used to pray for forgiveness three times for the first row and once for the second row. (Ibn Majah)

90. Abu Umama Radiyallahu `anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu `alaihi wasallam said: Allah sends Mercy and His angels invoke blessings upon the first row. Those present said: O Rasullullah! And upon the second? He replied: Allah sends Mercy and His angels invoke blessings upon the first row. (Again) they asked: And upon the second? He replied: And also upon the second. And Rasullullah Sallallahu `alaihi wasallam further said: Straighten your rows, align your shoulders, be gentle to your brothers, and close the gaps. For verily Shaitan enters in the gap between you, like a baby lamb. (Musnad Ahmad, Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

Note: To be gentle to your brothers means if someone asks you to straighten your row, by keeping his hand on you, concede to his request.

91. Abu Hurairah narrates that Rasullullah SallaIlahu `alaihi wasallam said: The first row of Salat amongst the men is most rewarding and the last is the least; whereas the last rows of Salat amongst the women are the most rewarding and the first the least. (Muslim)

92. Bara ibn `Azib Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam used to pass through the rows from one end to the other; setting our chests and shoulders in line and saying: Do not be out of line otherwise your hearts will differ. He used to add: Verily Allah 'Azza wa Jall sends Mercy for the first row and His angels ask for their forgiveness. (Abu Dawud)

93. Bara ibn `Azib Radiyallahu `anhuma narrates that Rasulullah Sallallshu 'alaihi wasallam said: Verily Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala sends Mercy and His angels invoke blessings for the people who are nearer to the front rows; and there is no step more beloved to Allah than one taken to complete a Row. (Abu Dawud)

94. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that when Rasulullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said : Verily Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala sends Mercy and His angels invoke blessings for those who are on the right hand side of rows. (Abu Dawud)

95. fIne-'Abbas Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who stands on the left side of the row in the masjid, because of the less number of people on that side, gets double the reward. (Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

Note: As it became known to the Sababah that the right hand side of the rows carries added virtue, all of them attempted to avail the same, leaving the left hand side empty. Then Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam informed them about the virtues of standing on the left hand side of the row, so that it does not remain incomplete. (Faid-ul-Qadir)

96. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu `anha narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Verily Allah sends Mercy and His angels invoke blessings for those who fill in the gaps to complete the rows. (Mustadrak Hakim)

97. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever joins a row (of Salat), Allah raises him one rank; and the angels shower (Allah's) blessings upon him. (Tabarani, Targhib)

98. 'Abdullah Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The best of you are those whose shoulders are more soft in Salat. And there is no step more rewarding than the step which is taken to fill the gap in the row (of Salat). (Bazaar, Targhib, Ibne-klibhan, Tabarani)

Note: The meaning of keeping the shoulders soft in Salat is that when somebody tries to enter the row, the persons offering Salat on the right and left should relax their shoulders to let him join the row.

99. Abu Juhaifah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who fills the gap in a row (of Salat) is forgiven. (Bazaar. Majma'uz-Zawaid)

100. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who joins the row (of Salat, Allah will join him with His Mercy; and whoever breaks the row (of Salat, Allah will cut him away from His Mercy. (Abu Dawud)

Note: Breaking the row means either placing something (personal belongings) in the row, which would break the continuity of the row; or seeing a vacant space and yet not occupying it. (Mirqat-ul-Mafatih)

101. Anas Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said : Straighten your Rows, for straightening of the rows in Salat is essential for the offering of Salat correctly. (Bukhari)

102. 'Uthman ibn 'Affan Radiyallahu `anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: He, who performed Wudu for Salat and performed it properly and then went on foot to offer the obligatory Salat and offered it along with the people or in congregation or in the masjid, Allah would forgive his sins. (Muslim)

103. 'Umar ibn Khattab Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heardRasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: Allah Subbanahu wa Ta'ala indeed admires the people offering Salat in congregation. (Musnad Ahmad, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

104. Abdullah ibn Mas'ud Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The excellence of a person's Salat( in congregation is even greater than twenty times as compared to his individual Salat. (Musnad Ahmad)

105. Abu Hurairah Radliyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The reward of Salat offered by a person in congregation is twenty five times greater as compared to that Salat offered by him alone in his house or place of business. (Bukhari)

106. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasalullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallarn said: Salat in congregation is twenty seven times greater in reward as compared to Salat offered individually. (Muslim)

107. Qubath ibn Ashyam Al Laithi Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu wasallam said: The Salat of two persons, with one of them as Imam, is more liked by Allah, to the individual Salat of four persons. Similarly, the Salat of four persons, with one of them as Imam, is more liked by Allah, to the individual Salat of eight persons. And the Salat of eight persons, with one of them as Imam, is more liked by Allah, to the individual Salat of hundred persons. (Bazzar. Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

108. Ubayy ibn Ka'b Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasalullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The Salat of a person offered with another person is better than his Salat offered alone. And his Salat with two persons is better than his Salat offered with one person. Similarly, the larger the number, the more it is liked by Allah, The Almighty, The Majestic. (Abu Dawud)

109. Abu Sa'id Al Khudri narrates that when Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said : Salat is congeration is equivalent to twenty five salat, and when Salat is offered in a desert, performing its bowing and prostration properly, it reaches upto fifty times. (Abu Dawud)

110. Abu Darda Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: If three persons in a village or a forest, do not offer the congregational Salat, then Shaitan fully overpowers them. So make it obligatory on yourself to offer Salat in congregation. For undoubtedly the wolf eats only the stray goat. (Abu Dawud)

111. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that when Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam fell ill, he asked for permission from his wives that his nursing be done in my house. They gave him their consent. When Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam came out (for Salat) with the support of two persons, his feet were making a line on the ground (as a result of trailing along). (Bukhari)

112. Fadalah Ibn 'Ubaid Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that when Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam used to lead the Salat, some people standing in the row would fall down due to extreme hunger; and they were the people of Suffah about whom the villagers would say that they were insane. One day, when Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam completed the Salat, he turned to them and said: If you know the reward that Allah has for you, then you would like to live with more hunger and needs. Fadalah says: I was with Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam that day. (Tirmidhi)

113. 'Uthman Ibn 'Affan Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: The one who offered 'Isha Salat in congregation, it was as if he remained in Salat upto midnight, and if he offered the Fajr Salat in congregation, it was as if he remained in Salat the whole night. (Muslim)

Note: Some scholars on the basis of other ahadith interpret this to mean that he who offers 'Isha and Fajr Salat both in congregation gets the reward of the whole night's worship.

114. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Indeed! The most burdensome Salat for hypocrites is the Salat of Fajr and the Salat of 'Isha. (Muslim)

115. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: If people would have known the virtues of going to the masjid for Zuhr Salat in the scorching heat, then they would certainly compete with one another in going to the masjid. And if they knew the virtues of 'Isha and Fajr Salat, they would indeed go to the masjid for these Salat, even if (due to some illness) they had to drag themselves, (Bukhari)

116. Abu Bakrah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: A person, who offers the Fajr Salat in congregation, is in Allah's protection and the person, who harasses the one who is in the protection of Allah, will be thrown into the Hell Fire by Allah. (Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

117. Anas Ibn Malik Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: A person who offers Salat for forty days in congregation, purely to please Allah, starting with the Imam right from the first Takbir, receives two exemptions; one from Hell- Fire, and the other from hypocrisy. (Tirmidhi)

118. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: I thought of asking some youngsters to collect a large quantity of firewood, and then proceed to the houses of those people who offer their obligatory Salat in their homes without any valid excuse, and burn their houses on them. (Abu Dawud)

119. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Anyone who performs Wudu and performs it properly then comes to the Friday Salat, listens to the Khutbah (sermon) attentively, and remains silent, his sins between this Friday and the last one are forgiven; and also (the sins) for three additional days. But he who touches the pebbles during the Khutbah (plays with them with his hands, or floor-mats or clothes) then he has acted irrelevantly (due to which he lost the special reward for the Friday Salat). (Muslim)

120. Abu Ayyub Al Ansari Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: Anyone who takes a bath on Friday, and uses perfume if he has any, and wears his best clothes and then comes out until he reaches the masjid and offers the prescribed Salat and does not hurt anyone, and keeps silent from the time the Imam comes out for the Khutbah (sermon) till he finishes the Salat, it is an atonement for his sins from this Friday to the last One. (Musnad Ahmad)

121. Salman Al Farsi Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: A person who takes a bath on Friday, and purifies himself as much as he can, applies oil to his hair, or uses the perfume available in his house, then goes to the masjid and sits without squeezing two persons and prays what is prescribed for him, and then listen to the Khutbah of the Imam silently and attentively, his sins are forgiven from this Friday to the last one. (Bukhari)

122. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said once on a Friday: O Community of Muslims! Allah has made this day an 'Eid for you, so take a bath and needfully brush your teeth with Siwak (toothstick). (Tabarani, Majma ' uz-Zawaid)

123. Abu Umamah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Indeed the bath, taken on Friday, removes sins even to the extent of removing them from the roots of the hair. (Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

124. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When it is a Friday, the angels stand at the door of the masjid recording the names of those who come first, and then those who follow. And he who comes early is treated like one sacrificing a camel, next is like one who sacrifices a cow, next a sheep, next a hen and next an egg. When the Imam comes out (for giving the sermon), the angels fold up the register and become busy in listening to the sermon. (Bukhari)

125. Yazid Ibn Abi Maryam Rahimahullah narrates: 'Abaya Ibn Rafi' Rahimahullah met me, when I was going to Friday Salat on foot and he said: Glad tidings for you, indeed these steps of yours are in the Path of Allah; I heard Aba ' Abs Radiyallahu 'anhu saying that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He whose feet are covered with dust in the Path of Allah, those (feet) are forbidden on the Hell Fire. (Tirmidhi)

126. Aws Ibn Aws Thaqafi Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: He who takes bath properly and perfectly on Friday, hastens to the masjid very early and goes on foot, not riding, sits close to the Imam and listens (to the sermon) attentively, does not speak at all, then for each step he will get the reward of one year's fasting and one year of offering Salat at night. (AbuDawud)

127. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Amr Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: One who takes bath on Friday properly and perfectly and goes very early for Friday Salat, sits very close (to the Imam), and listens (to the sermon) attentively, and remains silent, then for each step of his, gets the reward of one year's Salat at night and one year's fasting. (Musnad Ahmad)

128. Abu Lubaba Ibn 'Abdul Mundhir Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Friday is the chief of the days, and most dignified among the days in the sight of Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala. This day is greater than 'Eid-ul-Adha and "Eid-ul-Fitr in Allah's sight. It has five attributes: On this day Allah created Adam 'Alaihissalam; on this day Allah sent down Adam ' Alaihis Salam to the earth; on this day Allah seized Adam ' Alaihis Salam in death; it contains a certain hour at which no slave asks Allah for anything without Allah granting it, as long as he does not ask for anything unlawful; and on this day the Last Hour will come. All His preferred angels, the sky, the earth, the winds, the mountains and the oceans fear the day of Friday (as on this day Resurrection will take place). (Ibn Majah)

129. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: None of the days, on which the sun rises and sets, is better than Friday. All living creatures fear the day of Friday except the two burdensome classes, Human beings and Jinns. (Ibn Hibban)

130. Abu Sa'id Al Khudri Radiyallahu 'anhu and Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrate that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: There is a specific time on Friday in which whatever a Muslim slave asks from Allah' Azza wa Jalil, He grants it to him and this time is after ' Asr. (Musnad Ahmad, Fath-ur-Rabbani)

131. Abu Musa Al Ash'ari Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard: Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying (mentioning the specific time on Friday in which Du'a is accepted): It occurs between the time when the Imam sits down for Khutbah till the end of Salat. (Muslim)

Note: There are many other ahadlth ascertaining the hour of acceptance of a supplication on Fridays. Hence, the whole day of Friday should be utilized in worship and supplication. (Nawawi)

Sunnah and Nafilah - Non-Obligatory Prayers

Verses Of Quran

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala said to : His Prophet Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam:
And in some parts of the night (also) offer the Tahajjud Salat as an additional prayer (Tahajjud) for you. It may be that your Rabb will raise you to Maquam Mahmood (a praised station). [Al-Isra' 17: 79]

Note: On the Day of Resurrection by the intercession of Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam reckoning will commence. This honour is called Maquam Mahmood (a praised station). (Bayan-ul-Qur'an)

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
And those who spend the night, for their Lord, prostrating and standing (in Salat). [Al-Furqan 25: 64]

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
They forsake their beds to supplicate (engage in Salat, remembrance and invoking) to their Rabb in fear and hope, and they spend from what We have provided them.
So, no soul knows what is put secret for them of the coolness of eyes, the recompence of that they did. [As-Sajdah 32: 16-17]

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
Indeed, the righteous will be among gardens and springs, accepting what their Sustainer has given them. Indeed, they were before that, doers of good.
They used to sleep but little at night;
And in the hours before dawn, they would ask forgiveness. [Adh-Dhariyat 51: 15-18]

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala said to His Prophet Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam:
O you who wraps himself (in a cloak).
Arise (to pray) in the night but a little,
A half thereof, or a little thereof,
Or a little more, and recite the Qur'an calmly with pauses and distinctly (according to the rules of recitation. One wisdom of Taha- jjud prayer is that the effort of getting up at night develops the capacity to execute the responsi- bilities of these heavy words). Verily, We will cast upon you a heavy word.
(The second wisdom is that) The rising in the night strongly disciplines the "Nafs" (one's inner self) and the words are recited correctly, (at this time recitation, Dhikr and supplication come directly from the heart).
(A third wisdom is that) There is for you during the day a prolonged occupation (like TablTgh. So the night must be kept exclusively for Allah's worship which will make easy for you the days work). [Al-Muzzammil 73: 1-7]

Ahadith

132. Abu Umamah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Allah does not grant a slave to engage in anything more rewarding for him than two Rak'at, which he offers, Verily righteousness is spread over his head so long as he is engaged in Salat. And man does not come nearer to Allah with anything better than that which came forth from Allah 'Azza wa Jalil, meaning thereby the Qur'an. (Tirmidhi)

Note: Apart from the importance of Nafl SalSt, this hadlth explains that the maximum closeness to Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala is achieved by reciting of the Qur'an.

133. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam passed by a grave and asked: Whose grave is this? The Sahabah replied: Of so and so. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: For this man in the grave, the offering of two Rak'at is dearer than all your world and whatever it contains. (Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

Note: This hadith implies that the true value of two Rak'at will become evident after death.

134. Abu Dharr Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that once Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam came out in autumn and leaves were falling from the trees. He held two branches of a tree in his hand and their leaves started to fall even more. Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: O Abu Dharr! I replied: At your service, I am here O Rasullallah! He continued: Undoubtedly when a Muslim offers Salat, desiring to please Allah, his sins fall from him, as these leaves are falling from this tree. (Musnad Ahmad)

135. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who is regular in offering twelve Rak'at (of Salat), Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala will build for him a house in Paradise; four Rak'at before Zuhr, two Rak'at after Zuhr, two Rak'at after Maghrib, two Rak'at after 'Isha, and two Rak'at before Fajr. (Nasai)

136. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that of all non obligatory Salat, Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam was most particular in offering the two Rak'at Sunnah before Fajr. (Muslim)

137. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said about the two Rak'at (Sunnah) before the (obligatory) Fajr Salat: These two Rak'at are more beloved to me than the whole world. (Muslim)

138. Umme Habibah binte Abu Sufyan Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever is constant in offering four Rak'at before the Zuhr Salat and four Rak'at after it, Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala will forbid the Fire on him. (Nasai)

Note: The four Rak'at before Zuhr are Sunna-tul-Muakkadah (the emphatically enjoined Sunnah Salat), and the four after the Zuhr Salat, two are Sunna-tul-Muakkadah, and the other two are Nafl.

139. Umme HabTba Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Any believing slave who offers four Rak'at after Zuhr, the Fire will not touch his face, if Allah 'Azza wa Jalil wills. (Nasai)

140. 'Abdullah Ibn Saib Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam used to offer four Rak'at after the sun had passed the meridian, before the Zuhr Salat, and said: This is the hour in which the gates of the sky are opened and I desire that some of my good deeds ascend the sky at this moment. (Tirmidi)

Note: The four Rak'at before Zuhr are understood to be Sunna-tul-Muakkadah. However, according to some other Muslim Scholars these four Rak'at , after the sun has passed the meridian, are in addition to the four Rak'at of Sunna-tul-Muakkada

141. 'Umar ibn Khattab Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Four Rak'at before Zuhr Salah after the sun has passed the meridian are reckoned equivalent in virtue to the four Rak'at of Tahajjud Salat. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam added: It is this hour that everything glorifies Allah. Then he recited: How their shadows incline to the right and to the left making prostration unto Allah and they are lowly. (Tirmidhi)

142. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: (May) Allah show Mercy to a man who prays four Rak'at before 'Asr Salat. (Abu Dawud)

143. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who stands at night in Salat during Ramadan with belief in Allah's promises and hope for reward, his former sins will be forgiven. (Bukhari)

144. 'Abdur Rahman Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that indeed Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam once mentioned Ramadan and said: It is the month in which, Allah has made fasting obligatory for you, and I have made Salat a Sunnah at night. So, whoever fasts in Ramadan and offers this Salat at night, with firm belief in the promises of Allah, seeking only to please Him, and hoping for reward, he will be cleansed from his sins like the day his mother gave birth to him. (Ibn Majah)

145. Abu Fatima Al-Azdi Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said to me: O Abu Fatima! If you desire to meet me (in the Hereafter), then prostrate frequently (offer Salat frequently). (Musnad Ahmad)

146. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: The first of his deeds, for which a man will be taken into account on the Day of Resurrection, will be his Salat. If it is sound, he will be saved and successful; but if it is corrupt, he will be unfortunate and miserable. If any deficiency is found in his (obligatory) Salat, Allah 'Azza wa Jalil will say: "Look at My slave, whether he has any Nafl Salat so that what is lacking in the (obligatory) Salat may be made up by it." Then the rest of his actions Saum, Zakat etc. will also be dealt with a similar manner (Tirmidhi)

147. Abu Umamah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Indeed, the most enviable among my friends is the believer who is light burdened (of children and worldly goods); has his full share of Salat, excellent in his Rabb's worship and he also obeys Him in seclusion. Being inconspicuous, people do not point at him. His livelihood is barely sufficient and he is patient. Then Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam snapped his fingers (as one does to illustrate something happening very quickly) and said: He dies early, without many women to lament him, nor leaving behind a large inheritance. (Tirmidhi)

148. Abdullah Ibn Salman Rahimahullah narrates that a Sahabi of Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam narrated to me: When we had won the battle of Khyber, people took out their shares of captured enemy assets which consisted of prisoners and various things, and began to buy and sell among themselves. Meanwhile, a person came to Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam and said: O Rasullullah! I have earned more profit than anyone else in the valley. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Woe to you! And what did you earn? He replied: I kept buying and selling and made a net profit of three hundred Uqiah of silver. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Shall I inform you of something better than this? He said: Do tell me, O Rasulallah! He said: Two Rak'at Nafl after obligatory Salat (Abu Dawud)

149. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When any one of you goes to sleep, the Shaitan ties three knots at the back of his neck, sealing every knot with the words: You have a long night, so sleep. So if one awakens and remembers Allah a knot will be loosened; if he performs ablution, a knot will be loosened; and if he offers Salat, a knot will be loosened. And in the morning he will be active and in pleasant mood; and having received a great blessing. If he does not offer Tahajjud, he will be sluggish and industurbed mood, also being deprived of a great blessing. (Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah)

150. 'Uqba Ibn 'Amir Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: One, out of two persons of my Ummah, gets up at night and motivates himself for Wudu despite not feeling to do so; since, Shaitan had tied knots on him. When he washes his two hands in Wudu, one knot is loosened; and when he washes his face, another knot is loosened; and when he wipes his head with wet hands, another knot is loosened; and when he washes his feet, yet another knot is loosened. Allah 'Azza wa Jalil says to those behind the veil — His angels: Look at My slave! How much hardship he is enduring in dealing with his Nafs (innerself), so now whatever this slave asks of Me, it will be granted to him. (Musnad Ahmad, Fath-ur-Rabbani)

151. 'Ubadah Ibn Samit Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: One who wakes up during the night and says in Du'a:

None is worthy of worship but Allah, He is alone, He has no partner; His is the Kingdom, His is all the Praise, and He has Power over everything, Praise be to Allah, Glory be to Allah Who is above all faults and none is worthy of worship but Allah; and Allah is the greatest; and there is no might to resist evil, and no power to do good, except through Allah. And says: O Allah! Forgive me or makes a Du'a, it will be accepted; and if he performs Wudu and offers Salat, then his Salat is also accepted. (Bukhari)

152. Ibn ' Abbas Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that when Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam used to wake up for Tahajjud Salat during the night, he would make this Du'a:

O Allah! All praise be to You; You are the Sustainer of the Heavens and the Earth, and whosoever is in them, to You be praise. You are the light of the Heavens and the Earth, and whosoever is in them, to You be praise. You are the King of the Heavens and the Earth, to You be praise. You are the Truth, Your Promise is True, the meeting with You is a certainty, Your Word is True, Paradise is True, Hell is True, the Prophets are True, Muhammad Sallallahu 'alaihe wasallam is True; the Hour (Day of Resurrection) is True. O Allah! To You I have surrendered, upon You I believe, upon You I trust, to You I turn to in repentance, by Your help I have disputed (with the one who does not believe), and to You I have come for judgment. So forgive me my past sins, and those I may do later, my secret and my open sins. You are the One Who enables someone to move forward in good deeds and You are the One Who defers. And none is worthy of worship but You. There is no might to resist evil, and no power to do good, except through Allah. (Bukhari)

153. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The best month for fasting, after the month of Ramadan, is Allah's month of Al-Muhar ram; and the best Salat, after obligatory Salat, is Tahajjud Salat. (Muslim)

154. Iyas Ibn Mu'awiya Al MuzanT Rahimahullah narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Be sure to offer Tahajjud Salat though it may be as short as a goats milking. Any Salat offered after 'Isha will indeed be counted as Tahajjud. (Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

155. 'Abdullah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The excellence, of night's Nafl Salat over day's Nafl Salat, is like the excellence of Sadaqah given secretly over Sadaqah given openly. (Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

156. Abu Umamah Bahili Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Make it a practice of offering Tahajjud, for undoubtedly it was the tradition of the righteous before you. It is a means of bringing you near to your Rabb and an atonement of evil deeds, and a prevention against sins. (Mustadrak Hakim)

157. Abu Darda Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam in a Hadith Qudsi said: There are three persons whom Allah loves and smiles at them being well pleased with them: One, who continues to fight in the battlefield alone even when all his companions have deserted him, until he is either martyred or receives help from Allah and becomes victorious. Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says (to the angels): Look at My slave! How he remained steadfast and firm in the battlefield, only to please Me. The second is the one, who has an attractive wife besides him on a soft and luxurious bedding, even then, he gets up to offer Tahajjud Salat. Allah says (to the angels): Look! He is sacrificing his pleasures and desires, and remembering Me; if he so wanted, he would have continued to sleep. Third is that person, who is on a journey in a caravan and when all the members of the caravan, after travelling till late, are fast asleep, he gets up to perform Tahajjud Salat, willingly or unwillingly. (Tabarani, Targhib)

158. Abu Malik Al-Ash'ari Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: There are rooms in Paradise, the outside of which can be seen from inside and the inside from the outside, Allah has prepared for those who feed others, spread Salam (greetings) abundantly, and offer Salat at night when people are sleeping. (lbn Hibban)

159. Sahl Ibn Sa'd Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Jibrail 'Alaihis Salam came to the Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam and submitted: O Muhammad! You may live a very long life, but one day you have to die. Do whatever deeds you wish to do, you will have a return of it. Love whomsoever you wish, but one day you will have to leave him. And know with certainty that undoubtedly the honour of a believer lies in Tahajjud, and his dignity lies in self- contentment. (Tabarani, Targhib)

160. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Amr ibn 'As Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said to me: O 'Abdullah! Do not be like so and so, who used to offer Tahajjud at night and then stopped offering it. (Bukhari)

Note: This hadith implies that without any valid excuse, the deeds m regular practice should not be given up. (Mazahir Haque)

161. Muttalib Ibn Rabi'ah Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Tahajjud Salat is in twos. When you offer this Salat, then recite Tashahhud after every two Rak'at and then remain persistent in imploring Allah by being like a person in extreme need, expressing one's helplessness and weakness. The one who did not do it in this manner, his Salat is incomplete. (Musnad Ahmad)

162. Hudhaifah ibn Yaman Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that one night I happened to pass Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam who was offering Salat in the Masjid of Madinah. I stood up behind Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam to offer Salat with him, assuming that he would not be aware of my presence. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam was reciting Surah Al-Baqarah. I assumed that he would go for Ruku' after one hundred verses, but he did not do so; I thought that he would go for Ruku' after two hundred verses, but he did not. I felt sure he would go for Ruku' at the end of the Surah. So, when the Surah ended, Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said three times, Allahhumma Lakal Hamd (All praise be to You O Allah!) and then started reciting Surah Ale-'Imran. And I thought after this Surah, he would certainly go for Ruku'. When Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam completed this Surah, he did not go for Ruku' but said Allahhumma Lakal Hamd, and started Surah Maidah. I thought that he would go for Ruku' at the end of this Surah, and he did perform Ruku'; and I heard him reciting this Tasbh in Ruku'; "Subhana Rabbiyal 'Azim" (All glory to my Rabb, The Greatest) and from the whispering of his moving lips, I realised that he was undoubtedly reciting something else which I did not comprehend. Then he went into Sajdah; I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam reciting this Tasbih; "Subhana Rabbiyal Aa'la" (All glory to my Rabb, The Most Exalted), and something else which I could not understand. In the second Rak'at he started reciting Surah Al-An'am. I left and went away as I lacked the endurance to continue in Salat with Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam. (Musannaf Abdur-Razzaq)

163. Ibn 'Abbas Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam reciting this supplication one night, after he had completed his Tahajjud Salat:

1. O Allah! I ask You of Your Mercy by which You give guidance to my heart, by which You make my work easy, and remove my distressed condition by it, and manage my issues in my absence by it. And give exaltation and honour by Your Mercy; and clean my actions (from hypocrisy and infidelity) by Your Mercy; and put that thing in my heart, which is correct and suitable for me; and whatever I like, grant me by Your Mercy; and protect me from all evil by Your Mercy.

2. O Allah! Give me that belief and faith after which there may not be any infidelity and a Mercy enabling me to achieve the blessings of Your gifts in this world and the Hereafter.

3. O Allah! I ask of You to give me a conviction that Your Decree is the very fulfilment of my aims, and an entertainment which is offered to martyrs, and a life of the fortunate, and Your help over enemies.

4. O Allah! I place before You my needs, though my understanding is limited, and my actions are weak, hence I am badly in need of Your Mercy. O the Maker of affairs and Healer of the hearts! As You by Your power keep the oceans (running together) separate from each other (that the saltish remains separate from the sweet and sweet remains separate from saltish); so I request You to keep me away from the punishment of the Hell-Fire, and the lamentations of the one about to perish, and from the punishment of the grave.

5. O Allah! I ask Yon of that goodness which is beyond my understanding and intention, and which I did not even ask. However, You promised this to anyone of Your creation, or any goodness which You want to give to any of Your slaves. I desire this and ask You of it by Your Mercy, O Sustainer of the universe!

6. O You of firm promises and Master of good deeds! I ask for Your peace on the Day of Judgement, and Paradise on the Day of Eternity, to be among Yours favourites and regular attendants of Your Court; frequently bowing and prostrating and fulfilling their promises. You are most Kind and Most Loving, and no doubt You do what You will.

7. O Allah! Make me one who is guided aright, and guides others aright. Do not misguide me, and do not make me misguide others. I may be in peace with Your friends and enemy of Your enemies. Those who love You, I should love them for that love of Yours, and those who are against You, I should have enmity with them due to their enmity with You.

8. O Allah! It is for us to supplicate, and for You to accept. This is my effort and reliance is on You.

9. O Allah! Put Nor (light) in my heart, and make my grave illuminated; and grant me Nur in front of me, Nur at my back, Nor on my right, Nor on my left, Nur above me, Nor below me, (Your Nor be around me), and Nur in my ears, Nur in my eyes, Nur in every hair of mine, Nur in my skin, Nur in my flesh, Nur in my blood, and Nor in every bone of mine. O Allah! Make my Nur enormous, grant me Nur, and make Nur for me.

10. Unblemished is He Whose covering is Dignity itself and Whose Word is Dignified. Unblemished is He Whose dress is Nobility and Honour. Unblemished is He; and none can be appropriately called unblemished besides Him. Unblemished is He Who is of great Excellence and full of Bounties. Unblemished is He Who is of great Dignity and Generosity. Unblemished is He Who is the Possessor of great Power and Respect. (Tirmidhi)

Note: For easy understanding, parts of Du'a are numbered as above.

164. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever recites one hundred verses in Salat in a night, he would not be written down amongst the neglectful; and whoever recites two hundred verses in Salat in a night, he would be counted amongst the sincere worshippers on that night. (Mustadrak Hakim)

165. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Amr ibn 'As Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever recites ten verses in Tahajjud, is not written down amongst the neglectful, and whoever recites one hundred verses, is counted amongst the worshippers; and whoever recites one thousand verses, is counted amongst those who receive a reward equal to a Qintar. (Ibn Khuzaimah)

Note: The meaning of Qintar is elaborated in the next hadith (166).

166. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: A Qintar is equivalent to twelve thousand Uqiah; and each Uqiah is more valuable than all that exists between the heavens and the earth. (Ibn Hibban)

167. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: May Allah have Mercy on the man who gets up during the night and offers Tahajjud, and awakens his wife so that she may also offer Salat. If she does not get up (and remains in bed due to deep sleep), he lightly sprinkles water on her face to help awaken her. And may Allah show Mercy on that woman who gets up at night and offers Salat and awakens her husband for Tahajjud, and if he does not awaken, she lightly sprinkles water on his face to awaken him. (Nasai)

Note: This hadith relates to such a couple who are fond of Tahajjud and to wake each other in this manner does not cause any displeasure between them. (Ma'ariful Hadith)

168. Abu Hurairah and Abu Sa'id Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrate that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When a man wakes his wife during the night and both offer two Rak'at Tahajjud Salat, they are counted amongst those men and women, who remember Allah abundantly. (Abu Dawud)

169. 'Ata' Rahimahullah narrates that I asked 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha: Tell me the most unusual things you have observed about Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam. 'A'ishah replied: Was there anything in him that was not unusual? One night he came to me and lay down in my blanket. Then he said: Leave me alone to worship my Rabb. After which he stood up, performed Wudu, and began to offer Salat and began to weep till his tears flowed down on his chest. Then he did Ruku' and after which he prostrated and wept, then he raised his head and wept. He continued in this state until Bilal Radiyallahu 'anhu called him for Fajr Salat. I said: O Rasulallah! What made you weep, even though Allah has forgiven your past and future sins. He said: Should not then I be a grateful slave of Allah. And why should I not do so, when Allah has revealed these verses to me this night: Verily, in the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of the night and the day, are signs for those who have knowledge. (Ale'Imran) (Ibn Hibban, Iqamatul Hujjah)

170. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Anyone, being accustomed to Tahajjud, is overpowered by sleep (on a particular night) except that Allah writes for him the reward of his Tahajjud Salat; and his sleep is a charity for him. (Nasai)

171. Abu Darda Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever goes to bed with an intention to offer Tahajjud Salat in the night, but is overpowered by sleep till dawn breaks (and he is unable to offer it), a complete reward for Tahajjud Salat is written for him on what he had intended, and his sleep is an added gift from Allah. (Nasai)

172. Mu'adh Ibn Anas Juhani Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: He who remains silting in his place of Salat, after offering his Fajr Salat, till he offers the forenoon Salat, saying nothing except what is good, his sins will be forgiven, even if they are more than the foam of the sea. (Abu Dawud)

173. Hasan Ibn 'Ali Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: He who, after offering Fajr Salat, engages himself in the Dhikr (remembrance) of Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala until sunrise, and then offers two or four Rak'dt (Ishraq), the Hell-Fire shall not touch his skin. (Baihaqi)

174. Anas Ibn Malik Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever, after performing Fajr Salat in congregation, continues sitting in Dhikr until the sun rises, then offers two Rak'at, receives a reward of Hajj and 'Umrah. Anas Radiyallahu 'anhu reports that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: A perfect, a perfect, a perfect. (The reward of a perfect Hajj and 'Umrah). (Tirmidhi)

175. Abu Darda Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam in a Hadith Qudsi said: Allah, Subhanahu wa Ta'ala proclaims: son of Adam! Do not slack in offering tour Rak'at Salat in the beginning of the day, I will suffice for all your needs of the day. (Musnad Ahmad, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

176. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam sent an army that returned in a short period of time, with a large Ghanimah (captured enemy assets). A man expressed: O Rasulallah! We have never seen such an army that returned so soon and with so much of Ghanlmah. He said: Shall I not inform you about a person, who earns much more Ghanimah in a very short time? A person, who performs Wudu properly at home, goes to the masjid, offers Fajr Salat and then (after sunrise) offers Salatud-Duha; indeed, in a little time gains much more Ghanlmah. (Abu Y'ala, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

177. Abu Dhar Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Each morning for every person a Sadaqah is due for each joint. Every utterance of Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah Who is above all faults) is an act of Sadaqah. Every utterance of Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah) is an act of Sadaqah. Every utterance of La ilaha illallah (None is worthy of worship but Allah) is an act of Sadaqah. Every utterance of Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest) is an act of Sadaqah. Enjoining good is an act of Sadaqah. Forbidding from evil is an act of Sadaqah. And offering two Rak'at Salatud-Duha suffice (as gratitude for Sadaqah due to every joint of the body). (Muslim)

178. Buraidah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: There are three hundred and sixty joints in a body of a person: and Sadaqah is due from every joint. The Sahabah asked: Who would be able to give that much Sadaqah O Nabiyallah? He said: To bury spit thrown in the masjid is Sadaqah; to remove a troublesome thing from the way is Sadaqah; and offering two Rak'at Salatud-Duha suffices as Sadaqah (for all the joints of the body). (Abu Dawud)

179. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever offers two Rak'at Salatud-Duha regularly, his sins are forgiven even if they be as much as the foam of the sea. (Ibn Majah)

180. Abu Darda Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever offers two Rak'at Salatud-Duha, will not be counted amongst the neglectful worshippers of Allah; and whoever offers four Rak'at, would be written down amongst the worshippers; and whoever offers six Rak'at, his needs for the day are taken care of; and whoever offers eight Rak'at, is written down amongst the obedient; and whoever offers twelve Rak'at, Allah makes a palace for him in Paradise. There does not pass a single day or night, in which Allah does not shower benevolence upon His slaves. And the greatest benevolence of Allah upon any of His slaves is to grant him an opportunity to remember Him (through Dhikr). (Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

181. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever offers six Rak'at after Maghrib Salat, without evil talk in between, a reward equivalent to twelve years of worship is given to him. (Tirmidhi)

Note: After the two Rak'at Sunnah of Maghrib, if four Rak'at optional are offered this will make the required six Rak'at. According to some Muslim Scholars, these six Rak'at are in addition to the two Rak'at Sunnah of Maghrib. (Mirqat-ul-Mafatih, Mazahir Haque)

182. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that once Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam asked Bilal at Fajr Salat: O Bilal! Tell me that deed of yours which is most hopeful (for reward) after embracing Islam, for I heard your footsteps in front of me in Paradise (in my dream). Bilal replied: I have not done anything extraordinary except that whenever I performed Wudu during the day or night, I offer Salat (Tahiyatul-Wudu) after that, as much as was written or granted for me. (Bukhari)

Salat-ut-Tasbih

183. Ibn 'Abbas Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said to 'Abbas: O 'Abbas! O my uncle! Shall I not give you? Shall I not present you? Shall I not gift you? Shall I not tell you an action if performed, you would get ten benefits; Allah will forgive your sins, the past and the future, the old and new, (committed) unknowingly and knowingly , minor and major, secret and open? You should offer four Rak'at- reciting in each one Surah Fatiha and a Surah, and when you finish the recitation in the first Rak'at, you should say fifteen times while standing: Suhhanallahi Walhamdulillahi wa La illaha HlaUahu Wallahuakbar. Then you should perform Ruku', and say it ten times while you are in Ruku'. Then you should raise your head after Ruku' and say it ten times while standing. Then you should go down in Sajdah and say it ten times. Then you raise your head from Sajdah and say it ten times while sitting. Then you should perform the second Sajdah and say it ten times. Then you should raise your head and say it ten times while sitting. That is seventy five times in every Rak'at. You should do that in all the four Rak'at. If you can offer this (Salat-ut-Tasbih) once daily, do so; if not, then once every Friday; if not, then once a month; if not, then once a year; if not, then once in your lifetime. (Abu Dawud)

184. Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam deputed Ja'far Ibn Abu Talib to Abyssinia. When he returned to Madinah from Abyssinia, Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam embraced him and kissed his forehead and said: Shall I not give you a gift? Shall I not give you good news? Shall I not grant you? Shall I not give you a present? He replied: Please do, O Rasulallah! Then Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam explained the details of Salat-ut-Tasbih. (Mustadrak Hakim)

185. Fadalah Ibn 'Ubaid Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: When Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam was seated, a man entered the masjid and offered Salat and made supplication: allahumaghfirli wa rahamni (O Allah! Forgive me and bestow Mercy on me). Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said to him: O you who is praying! You have hurried in making supplication. When you sit after offering Salat, you should praise Allah in a manner which is worthy of Him; then send Salawat on me and then make your supplication to Him. Fudalah Ibn 'Ubaid Radiyallahu 'anhu said: Then another person came and offered Salat, praised Allah, and sent Salawat on Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam. Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said to him: O you who is offering Salat! (Now) supplicate, it will be accepted. (Tirmidhi)

186. Anas Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam passed by a villager who in his Salat was making this supplication:

O He Whom Eyes cannot see and Who is beyond our imagination, and Whom none can praise appropriately, nor do the calamities of time effect Him, nor does He fear the disasters of the time. (O He) Who knows the weight of the mountains,the measure of the oceans, the number of the drops of rain, and the number of the leaves of trees; and (O He) Who knows all those things on which the darkness of night falls, and on which day light comes, and from Whom neither a sky can hide another sky, and nor the earth another earth; nor an ocean can hide whatever is in its depth, nor a mountain can hide that which is within its hardest rocks. O Allah! Make' the last part of my life the best; and the last action of my actions the best, and make my best day, the day on which I meet You.

Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam deputed a man to this villager and said that when he completes his Salat bring him to me. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam had been gifted some old from a mine. When this villager came to him, he gifted this gold to him and said: Which tribe do you belong to? He said: O Rasulallah! I am from the tribe of Banu 'Amir. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Do you know why I presented this old to you? The villager said: Because of our mutual relationship O Rasulallah!. He said: Undoubtedly relationship has its rights, but I gifted this gold to you because of your beautiful praise of Allah. (Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

Note: Such supplications can be recited in every posture of Nafl Salat.

187. Abu Bakr Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: Whenever a slave (of Allah) commits a sin, then he performs Wudu properly and offers two Rak'at Salat and seeks forgiveness from Allah, Allah forgives him. Then Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam recited these verses: And those who, when they do an evil deed or wrong themselves, then at once remember Allah and ask for forgiveness and Who then forgives sins but Allah only? And will not knowingly repeat (the wrong) they did. (Ale'Imran 3:135) (Abu Dawud)

188. Hasan Rahimahullah narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: There is not a slave (of Allah) who commits a sin, then performs Wudu and does it properly, then goes out to an open plain and offers two Rak'at Salat and seeks forgiveness for that sin, indeed Allah forgives him. (Baihaqi)

189. Jabir Ibn ' Abdullah Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam used to teach us the way of doing Istikharah with as much importance as he used to teach us the Surahs of the Qur'an. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: If anyone of you intends to do any work (and is concerned about its final outcome) he should offer two Rak'at optional Salat and supplicate:

Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi'ilmika, Wa astaqdiruka bi-qudratika, Wa as'alaka min fadlika al-'azlm Fa-innaka taqdiru Wala aqdiru, Wa ta'lamu Wala a'lamu, Wa anta 'allamu l-ghuyub. Allahumma, in kunta ta'lam anna hadha-l-amra Khairun li fi dini wa ma'ashi wa'aqibati amri (or 'ajili amri wa'ajilihi) Faqdirhu wa yas-sirhu li thumma barik li Fihi, Wa in kunta ta'lamu anna hadha-lamra shar-run li fi dini wa ma'ashi wa'aqibati amri (or fi'ajili amri wa ajilihi) Fasrifhu anni was-rifni anhu. Waqdir li al-khaira haithu kana Thumma ardini bihi.

O Allah! I ask guidance by virtue of Your knowledge and by virtue of Your Power; and I ask from Your great blessing for undoubtedly You have power and You are capable and I have none You know and I do not, and undoubtedly You are thegreatest Knower of all the unseen. O Allah! If You know that this matter is good for me regarding my religion, my livelihood and future well being (or he said: For my future and present affairs); Then You ordain it for me and make it easy for me and then bless me in it. But if you know that this work is bad for me, regarding my religion and my livelihood and my future well being (or he said: My present and future affairs), then keep it away from me, and let me be away from it, and ordain good for me wherever it is. And make me be satisfied with it.

Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam added that the person should name and (concentrate) on his need when he comes to hadha-l-amra (Bukhari)

Note: Istikharah means asking Allah for good. For instance, it is desirable to perform Istikharah if a person intends sending a proposal somewhere.

190. Abu Bakrah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that during the time of Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam there was an eclipse of the sun and he went to the Masjid (in a hurry), dragging his cloak and the Sahabah Radiyallahu 'anhum gathered around him. He led them in two Rak'at Salat, by that time the eclipse had cleared. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Indeed the sun and the moon are two signs among the signs of Allah. An eclipse does not occur due to someone's death (as it was ignorantly thought in those days; indeed all these natural phenomena occur only by the command of Allah). So when an eclipse occurs, offer Salat and continue to invoke Allah's mercy till the eclipse is over. It so happened that Ibrahim, the son of Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam, died on that day and people were talking about it (saying the eclipse was caused by his death). (Bukhari)

191. 'Abdullah Ibn Zaid Al MazinT Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam went to the place of Salat-ul- 'Eid and offered Salat-ul-lstisqa' (for rain), and turned his cloak inside out (reversing it) while he faced the Qiblah (appealing to Allah, to reverse this condition of drought by His infinite Mercy, and send down rain). (Muslim)

192. Hudhaifah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that whenever Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam faced an important and grim situation, he would at once resort to Salat. (Abu Dawud)

193. Ma'mar Rahimahullah narrates from a Quraishi companion that whenever Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam's household were hard pressed for food and provisions, he would enjoin Salat on them and used to recite this verse: And enjoin Salat upon your family and be constant (patient) therein. We ask not from you any provision, it is We indeed Who provide for you, the best end is indeed for the pious. (Ithafussadah, Musannaf ' Abdul-Razzaq 'Abd bin Hamid)

194. 'Abdullah Ibn Abu Awfa Al Aslami Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam came to us and said: Whoever is confronted with a need, relating either to Allah or to any of His creation, he should perform Wudu and offer two Rak'at Salat, and then supplicate:

There is None worthy of worship but Allah the Clement, the Bountiful; Glorified be Allah, the Lord of the tremendous Throne; Praise be to Allah, the Sustainer of the worlds. O Allah! I ask from You everything that leads to Your Mercy and ensures Your Forgiveness; I ask You for abundance in all that is virtuous; I ask You to leave no sin of mine but that You have pardoned it; and no distress except that You have removed it; and no want except that which met Your pleasure and You have fulfilled it for me.

After this supplicate to Allah for whatever you want pertaining to this world or the hereafter, undoubtedly it will be answered, (Ibn Majah, Misbahuzzujajah)

195. 'Abdullah Ibn Mas'ud Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that a man came to Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam and said: O Rasulallah! I wish to go to Bahrain for (some) business. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam directed him to perform two Rak'at Salat, before undertaking the journey. (Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

196. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When you enter your house, offer two Rak'at Salat; this will protect you from the evil once you have entered your house. Similarly, offer two Rak'at Salat before leaving your house, this will protect you from the evil after leaving the house. (Bazzar, Majma-'uz-Za wai d)

197. Ubayy Ibn Ka'b Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam asked me: What do you recite in the beginning of your Salat? Ka'b Radiyallahu 'anhu replied: Umm-ul- Qur'an {Surah Fatiha). Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam then said: By Him in Whose Hand is my soul, Allah has not revealed the like of this (Surah) in the Tawrat (Torah), nor the Injil (Bible), nor the Zabur (Psalms), nor in the rest of the Qur'an. And these indeed, are the very Seven Verses (Sab" Mathani) which are repeated in every Rak'at of Salat. (Musnad Ahmad, Fath-ur-Rabbani)

198. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu repoted I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam narrating a Hadith Qudsi that Allah Ta'ala has said: I have divided Surah Fatiha into two halves between Me and My slave, and My slave will receive what he asks. So, when His slave says: Alhamdulillahi Rabbil 'alamin (Praise be to Allah, The Rabb of the universe). Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says: My slave has praised Me! And when His slave says: Arrahmanirrahim (The Compassionate, The Merciful). Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says: My slave has extolled Me! And when His slave says: Maliki Youmiddin (The Master of the Day of Judgement i.e. of Reward and Punishment). Allah says: My slave has glorified Me! (or) entrusted Me! And when His slave says: Iyyaka na'budu wa iyyaka nasta'in (You alone do we worship, and You alone do we seek for help). Allah says: This is between Me and My slave, so whatever he asks, it will be granted. And when His slave says: Ihdinas siratal mustaqlm siratal ladhina an'amta 'alaihim ghairil maghdiibi 'alaihim waladdallin (Guide us to the straight path, the path of those upon whom You have bestowed favours; and not of those who have incurred Your wrath; nor of those who have gone astray). Allah says: This (part of the Surah is exclusively) for My slave; and My slave shall receive whatever he has asked for. (Muslim)

199. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Say Amin, when the Imam has recited ''Ghairil maghdiubi 'alaihim waladdallin". For undoubtedly whosever's words (Amin) coincides with the words of the angels, all his past sins are forgiven. (Bukhari)

200. Abu Musa Al Ash 'an Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When the Imam recites Ghairil maghdiubi 'alaihim waladdallin (And not those who have incurred Your wrath, nor of those who have gone astray), say: Amin. Allah will accept your supplication. (Muslim)

201. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Would all of you not like that, when he returned home to his family he found three large, fattened and pregnant she-camels? We replied: Yes! Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam then said: Three verses of the Qur'an that you recite in your Salat, are better (in value and virtue) than three large, fattened and pregnant she-camels. (Muslim)

Note; Since camels were favourite to Arabs especially the she- camels having fattened humps, so Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam gave this example to emphasize the value of the Ayat (verses) of the Qur'an, as being more precious than these costly worldly possessions.

202. Abu Dhar Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: He who performs a Ruku' (bowing) or a Sajdah (prostration), his rank is elevated by one degree and one of his Sins is forgiven. (Musnad Ahmad, Al Bazzar, Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

203. Rifa'ah Ibn Rafi' Az-Zuraqi Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that one day we were offering Salat behind Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam, when he raised his head from Ruku' (bowing), he said: Samiallahu liman hamidah (Allah listens to him who has praised Him). A man behind him said: Rabbana walakal hamd hamdan kathiran tayyibam mubarakan fin (O our Rabb! All the praises are for You, many excellent and blessed praises). When Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam completed the Salat, he inquired: Who had uttered these words? The man replied: I did. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam then said: I saw more than thirty angels, hurrying one another to be the first to record it. (Bukhari)

204. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When the Imam says: Samiallahu liman hamida (Allah listens to him who has praised Him! ), then say: Allahhumma! Rabbana lakal hamd (O Allah! O our Rabb, to You is all the praise). And for him, whose utterance of this praise, coincides with that of the angels, all his past sins are forgiven (Muslim)

205. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The closest that a slave comes to his Rabb is, when he is prostrating in Salat, so make supplications abundantly while prostrating. (Muslim)

206. 'Ubadah Ibn Samit Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that he heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: No one amongst the slaves, who prostrate for the sake of Allah, Allah (because of this prostration) writes a good deed for him, erases a bad deed and raises him in rank by a degree. Therefore, prostrate (by offering Salat) abundantly. (Ibn Majah)

207. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When the son of Adam recites the verses in which there is Sajdah (prostration), and then falls down in Sajdah; Shaitan withdraws into seclusion, and weeping he says: Woe unto me! The son of Adam was commanded to make Sajdah; and he (obeyed and) made Sajdah, so for him is (eternal) Paradise. And I (too) was commanded to make Sajdah but I refused and so for me is the (eternal) doom of Hell Fire. (Muslim)

Note: This relates to verses of the Qur'an wherein prostration is mentioned; upon reading such an Ayah (verse), one should perform Sajdah.

208. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said (in a lengthy hadith): When Allah will have completed his Judgment and Decree amongst His slaves and will then intend to take out by His Mercy those whom He wishes from amongst the people of Hell Fire. He will order the angels to take out from Hell, those who did not associate any partners with Allah, and, had said: La ilaha illallah (there is none worthy of worship but Allah). The angels will recognize them in the Fire, by their marks of prostration. The Fire will burn the entire body of the son of Adam except the marks of prostration, as Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala has forbidden the Fire of Hell from burning the marks of prostration; and they will be taken out by the angels from the Fire. (Muslim)

Note: The marks of prostration refer to those seven parts of the body by which Sajdah is made: The forehead, both hands, both knees and both feet. (Nawawi)

209. Ibn 'Abbas Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam used to teach us Tashahhud, as he would teach us Surah of the Qur'an. (Muslim)

210. Khaffaf Ibn Ima' Al Ghifari Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that when Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam used to sit (in Qaidah) at the end of the Salat, he would point out with his forefinger. The polytheists would say that he was casting some magic spell (Allah forbid! ) with his forefinger. They were merely lying. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam used to indicate by this Tauhid (Unity) of Allah. (Musnad Ahmad, Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

211. Nafi' Rahimahullah narrates that when 'Abdullah Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma sat in Salat (Qaidah), he would place both his hands on his thighs, and point out with his forefinger and keep his eyes fixed on the finger while he was pointing. After Salat he narrated that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said about the pointing of the forefinger: It (the pointing of the forefinger in Tashahhud) is harder on the Shaitan than an iron spear. (Musnad Ahmad)

Note: The sitting position of Salat is known as Qa'dah. Pointing of the right index finger is symbolic of Tauhid (unity) and is performed simultaneously with the recitation of the phrase depicting Tauhid i.e. I bear witness that there is None worthy of worship but Allah.

Khushu and Khudu - Fear and Devotion in Prayers

Verses Of Quran

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
Be ever mindful of (obligatory) prayers and (in particular) the middle ('Asr) Salat, and stand before Allah, devoutly obedient.[Al-Baqarah 2: 238]

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
And seek help through patience and Salat; and indeed it is difficult except for the humble and submissive (to Allah). [Al-Baqarah 2: 45]

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
Verily will the believers succeed; They, who during their Salat, are humbly submissive. [Mu'minun 23: 1-2]

Ahadith

212. 'Uthman Ibn 'Affan Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: Whenever a Muslim at the time of obligatory Salat, performs Wudu excellently, and offers Salat with Khushu' and proper Ruku', it will be an atonement of his past sins as long as he does not commit any major sin. And this merit of Salat will be for all times. (Muslim)

Note: The Khushu' in Salat means that one's heart should be filled with Allah's greatness and fear, and his limbs should be relaxed. Khushu' also includes focusing the gaze during Qaumah on the spot where Sajdah is performed, on the toes in Ruku', towards the nose in Sajdah and on the lap in Qaidah,. (Bayan-ul-Qur'an, Sharh-us-Sunnan Abu Dawud lil 'Ayni)

213. Zaid Ibn Khalid Al-Juhani Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Anyone who performs Wudu excellently and then offers two Rak'at Salat in a way-that he does not forget anything in it (with total concentration towards Allah the Almighty), then all his past sins are forgiven. (Abu Dawud)

214. 'Uqbah Ibn 'Amir Al-Juhani Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: No Muslim performs Wudu, and performs Wudu thoroughly, then stands in Salat, fully conscious of what he is saying, but will come out of sin, as is on the day his mother gave birth to him, not a single sin will remain on him. (Mustadrak Hakim)

215. Humran Rahmatullahi 'alaihi, the freed slave of 'Uthman Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that 'Uthman Ibn 'Affan Radiyallahu 'anhu called for water for Wudu and then performed Wudu. He washed his hands thrice, then he rinsed his mouth and cleaned his nose, then he washed his face thrice. Then he washed his right arm up to (including) the elbow thrice, then he washed his left arm likewise, then he wiped his head with wet hands, then he washed his right foot upto (including) the ankle thrice, then he washed the left foot likewise, and then he said: I saw Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam performing Wudu like this Wudu of mine, and Rasullullah said: Whoever performs a Wudu similar to my Wudu, then stands and offers two Rak'at, not thinking of anything else (with complete concentration), all his previous sins are forgiven. Ibn Shihab Rahmatullahi 'alaihi said our 'Ulama (Islamic scholars) say: This is the most complete Wudu which one performs for Salat. (Muslim)

216. Abu Darda Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: He who performs Wudu and performs it excellently, then stands and offers two Rak'at or four Rak'at (the narrator is in doubt whether he heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying two Rak'at or four Rak'at), performing well therein the Ruku' and with Khushu' then asks Allah for forgiveness, he will be forgiven. (Musnad Ahmad, Majma-'uz-Zawaid).

217. 'Uqba Ibn 'Amir Juhani Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Anyone who performs Wudu and performs Wudu perfectly and then offers two Rak'at, fully concentrating with his heart and keeping his face and body relaxed, then Paradise becomes due for him (Abu Dawud)

218. Jabir Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that a person came to Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam and asked: O Rasullallah! Which Salat is the best one? He replied: The one with long Qunut. (Ibn Hibban)

Note: Qunut includes proper bowing, devotion, long Rak'at, lowering the eyes, lowering the shoulders in submission and Allah's fear.

219. Mughirah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam used to stand in Salat until his feet became swollen. It was said to him: Allah has forgiven your past and future sins. He said: Should I not then be a grateful slave? (Bukhari)

220. 'Ammar Ibn Yasir Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: Indeed a person completes his Salat and only one-tenth of the maximum reward, is written for him. Likewise for some one-ninth, one-eighth, one- seventh, one-sixth, one-fifth, one-fourth, one-third or half of it is written. (Abu Dawud)

Note: The Hadith explains that the more the outward appearance and the inner devotion in Salat corresponds to Sunnah, the greater is the reward. (Badhl-ul-Majhud)

221. Fadl Ibn ' Abbas Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Salat is to be offered in twos (Rak'at), with Tashahhud after every two Rak'at, and (in Salat ) express your submissive humility, devotion and tranquility. Then raise your hands (for Du'a) to your Rabb, The Almighty and Majestic by turning the palms of your hands towards your face and say three times: O my Rabb! O my Rabb! And the one who does not do so, his Salat is defective. (Musnad Ahmad)

222. Abu Dhar Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Allah continues to turn attentively towards His slave while he is engaged in Salat, as long as he does not turn his attention. When he turns his attention away, Allah turns away from him. (Nasai)

223. Hudhaifah Radiyallahu 'anhu reports that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Verily when a man stands in Salat, Allah turns His attention towards him until he completes his Salat or commits an act against the dedication of Salat. (Ibn Majah)

224. Abu Dhar Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When anyone of you stands in Salat, he should not level the pebbles (with his hand), as the Mercy of Allah is directed towards him. (Tirmidhi)

Note: In the early era of Islam, nothing was spread on the ground of the masjid and Salat was performed upon pebbles. Therefore, performing Sajdah would be uncomfortable due to the pebbles. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam had prohibited unnecessarily smoothening the place of Sajdah, since this is the time when the Mercy of Allah is directed towards the person in Salat. All such unnecessary actions during Salat may become a means of depriving one of Allah's Mercy.

225. Samurah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam used to command us, that during Salat, when we raise our heads from prostration, we should sit at ease on the ground and not on the heels with the two feet upright upon the toes. (Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

226. Abu Darda Radiyallahu 'anhu at the time of his death said that I am relating to you a Hadlth which I heard from Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam who said: Worship Allah as if you see Him; and if you do not see Him, then indeed. He sees you. Count yourself among the dead and beware of the supplication of the oppressed, for verily it is answered. And whoever among you is able to attend the two Salat of 'Isha and Fajr with Jama' ah even by crawling, then he should do so. (Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

227. Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Offer Salat like the one who is bidding farewell to the world and as though you see Allah and if you do not see Him, verily He sees you. (Jami-'us-Saghir).

228. 'Abdullah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that we used to offer Salam to Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam while he was in Salat, and he would respond to us. When we returned from Najashi (the king of Ethiopia), we offered Salam to him but he did not respond. So, we said: O Rasullullah! We used to offer Salam to you in Salat and you would respond to us. He then replied: Verily, Salat demands one's whole attention. (Muslim)

Note: This return refers to their coming back from the first migration from Makkah to Ethiopia.

229. 'Abdullah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I saw Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam offering Salat and from his chest, there was a sound like the grinding of a mill due to his weeping. (Abu Dawud)

230. Ibn 'Abbas Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The example of obligatory Salat is like a weighing scale. Whoever gives in full, receives in full (whoever will offer Salat completely and properly will receive his full reward). (Baihaqi, Targhib)

231. 'Uthman Ibn Abi Dahrish Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Allah does not accept a deed of His slave until he makes his heart attentive along with his body. (Ithafussadah)

232. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Salat comprises of three parts: Tahur (purity) is one-third, Ruku is one-third, and Sujud is one-third (The full reward of Salat is received on performing these three parts properly). So, whoever offers Salat properly, as is its due, it is "accepted from him and all the rest of his deeds are also accepted. And he whose Salat is rejected, all the rest of his deeds are also rejected. (Bazzar, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

233. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam led us in Salat-ul-'Asr. He then noticed a man offering Salat, so he said: O Fulan! (such and such) Fear Allah and improve your Salat. Do you think that I do not see you? Verily, I see from behind me, as I see in front of me. Offer your Salat properly, and complete your Ruku' and your Sujud. (Ibn Khuzaimah)

Note: Seeing of things behind his back was among the miracles of Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam.

234. Wail Ibn Hijr Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam would spread his fingers during Ruku', and would join the fingers during Sajdah. (Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

235. Abu Darda' Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that whoever offers two Rak'at of Salat in such a manner that he performs his Ruku' and Sujud properly and then whatever he asks from Allah, certainly Allah will grant him either immediately or later. (Tabarani, Ithafussadah)

236. 'Abdullah Al-Ash'arT Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The example of a person who does not perform his Ruku' properly and performs his Sujud like the pecking of a crow, is similar to that hungry man who eats one or two dates, which do not satisfy his hunger. (Similarly his Salat is of no benefit). (Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid, Abu Ya'la)

237. Abu Darda' Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The first thing that will be taken away from this Ummah will be Khushu" (devotion and humility) in Salat, to the extent that you will not find a single man with Khushu '. (Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

238. Abu Qatadah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The worst of thieves is the one who steals from his Salat. Sahabah asked: O Rasulallah! How can he steal from his Salat? He replied: By not performing its Ruku' and Sujud perfectly, or not keeping his back straight in Ruku' and nor in the Sujud. (Musnad Ahmad, Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

239. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Allah does not pay any attention to the Salat of a person, who does not keep his back straight between his Ruku' and Sujiid. (Musnad Ahmad, Fath-ur-Rabbani)

Note: This Hadith refers to the Qaumah, i.e. standing perfectly straight after Ruku' before performing Sajdah. Many people do not complete this properly, they hardly rise from Ruku' and then go directly into Sujud.

240. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates: I asked Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam about looking around in Salat? He said: It is the carrying away of a person from his Salat by Shaitan. (Tirmidhi)

241. Jabir Ibn Samurah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrated that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The people who lift their eyes towards the sky in Salat should refrain from it, otherwise they may loose their eyesight. (Muslim)

242. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam entered the masjid, and a man came in the masjid and offered Salat; then he approached Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam and greeted him with Salam. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam answered his Salam and said: Go back offer your Salat again, as you have not offered Salat. He went back and offered Salat in the same manner as he had offered it earlier, and returned and greeted Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam. He said: Go back and offer your Salat again, as you have not offered Salat. This occurred three times. Then the man said: By Him who has sent you with the Truth, I cannot pray Salat better than this. So, please teach me Salat. Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam replied: When you stand for Salat, say Allahu Akbar, then recite from the Qur'an what you know, and then go into Ruku' and complete it calmly. Then rise from Ruku' until you stand straight. Then you go into Sajdah till you complete it calmly. Then raise your head and sit till you are at ease and do the same in the whole of the Salat. (Bukhari)

The Virtues of Wudu (Ablution)

Versed Of Quran

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
O you who believe! When you rise to (perform) Salat, wash your faces and your fore arms to the elbows, and wipe over your heads and wash your feet to (including) the ankles. [Al-Ma'ida 5:6]

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
And Allah loves those who purify themselves. [Tawbah 9:108]

Ahadith

243. Abu Malik Al- Ash'ari Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Tuhur (purity) is half of Iman, and Alhamdulillah fills the scale of deeds with virtues, and Subhanallah and Alhamdulillah fill the space between the skies and the earth with reward, and Salat is Nur (a light) and Sadaqah is a proof of faith, and patience is brightness, and the Qur'an is an evidence for you, or against you. (Muslim)

Note: 1. The meaning of Tuhur being half of Iman, may refer to the fact that half of Iman is the inner purification from Kufr, Shirk and all other negative traits opposed to Iman. Outward purity, being a condition for the acceptance of Salat, is half of Salat.

2. Salat is a Nur; one meaning of this is, as light reverses darkness, similarly Salat stops from evil and being unfair. Another meaning is that the face of the one who offers Salat will be radiant on the Day of Judgment, as well as illuminated in this world. A third meaning is that Salat will be a light in the darkness of the grave and on the Day of Judgment.

3. Man by nature loves wealth, therefore his spending in charity for the sake of Allah, stands as a sign and evidence of his true belief.

4. Whoever is patient in fulfilling the orders of Allah, and abstaining from the prohibitions of Allah, and facing in hardships becomes enlightened with the glow of Hidayah (guidance).

5. The Qur'an shall be a means of salvation for the one who reads and acts upon it; otherwise it would be an evidence against those who neither learn it or act upon it. May Allah save and guide us. (Nawawi, Mirqat-ul-Mafatih)

244. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard my loving friend, Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: The jewellery of a Mu'min (on the Day of Resurrection) will cover to the places where the water of ablution reaches. (Muslim)

245. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: My Ummah will be called on the Day of Resurrection with their limbs and faces shining from traces of Wudu. So whoever amongst you can increase the area of his radiance should do so (i.e. by performing Wudu regularly). (Bukhari)

Note: Meaning that Wudu should be performed thoroughly with such care that no part of the skin should remain dry. (Mazahir Haque)

246. 'Uthman Ibn 'Affan Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Anyone who performs Wudu, and performs Wudu excellently (meaning thereby to carefully observe all the etiquettes), his sins will come out from his body, even coming out from under his nails. (Muslim)

Note: The opinion of the majority of the scholars is that minor sins, are forgiven by Allah through Wudu, Salat and other forms of worship. The major sins, are forgiven by Istighfar (seeking forgiveness) and Taubah (turning towards Allah with repentance). However, Allah by His bountiful Grace, may even forgive the major sins by virtue of above deeds. (Nawawi)

247. 'Uthman Ibn 'Affan Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: When any slave of Allah performs Wudu perfectly, then Allah forgives his past and future sins. (Bazzar, Majma-'uz-Zavvaid)

248. 'Umar ibn Khattab Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Anyone amongst you performs who Wudu completely while fulfilling all the etiquettes and desirables and then says: I testify there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and I testify that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger; the eight gates of Paradise are opened for him to enter from any one of them that he pleases.

In another narration of 'Uqba ibn 'Amir Juhani Radiyallahu 'anhu it is mentioned, as: I testify there is none worthy of worship but Allah alone, Who has no partner, and I testify that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger;

In the narration of Anas Ibn Malik Radiyallahu 'anhu this is to be said three times.

In another narration of 'Uqbah Radiyallahu 'anhu these words are to be said, while looking towards the sky, after performing Wudu excellently.

In a narration of 'Umar ibn Khattab Radiyallahu 'anhu the following words are given. I testify that there is none worthy of worship but Allah alone, Who has no partner and I testify that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger; O Allah! Make me from among those who turn with repentance and make me from among the purified. (Muslim, Ibn Majah, Abu Dawud , Tirmidhi)

249. Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When a person after performing Wudu says: Glory be to You, O Allah! You are above all faults and all praises are for You, there is none worthy of worship but You; and from You do I seek, forgiveness and to You do I turn in Taubah. This is recorded on a piece of paper and then sealed. The seal will not be broken until the Day of Resurrection (meaning that the reward of these words will be preserved for the Hereafter). (Mustadrak Hakim)

250. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: A person who perform Wudu by washing each limb once, has fulfilled the requirement of Wudu, for which there is no compromise. And he who cleanses each limb twice gets two parts of reward. And he who cleanses each limb thrice has performed my Wudu and the Wudu of the Prophets before me. (Musnad Ahmad)

251. 'Abdullah Sunabihi Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: When a Mu'min slave performs Wudu and rinses his mouth, the sins of his mouth are erased. When he cleans his nose, the sins of his nose are erased. When he washes his face, the sins of his face are erased even from beneath his eyelids. When he washes his arms, the sins of his arms are erased even from beneath his fingernails. When he wipes his head with his wet hands, the sins of his head are erased, even from his ears. When he washes his feet, the sins of his feet are erased even from beneath his toenails. Thereafter his walking towards the masjid and offering Salat is a source of more reward. (Nasai)

It is narrated in a lengthy narration by 'Amr Ibn 'Abasah Sulami Radiyallahu 'anhu: After performing Wudu, when he stands for Salat and praises, extols and glorifies Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala in a manner worthy of His dignity, and concentrates whole heartedly towards Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala, upon completion of his Salat, he is definitely cleansed of his sins as on the day his mother gave birth to him. (Muslim)

Note: Some scholars take the first narration to mean that by performing Wudu, all the bodily sins are forgiven; and by offering Salat all the inner sins are forgiven. (Kashful Mughatta)

252. Abu Umamah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever stands up to perform his Wudu, intending to offer Salat, then cleans his hands, the sins of his two hands fallout with the first drop of water. Then, when he rinses his mouth, and draws water into his nose and expels it, the sins of his tongue and two lips fallout with the first drop of water. Then, as he cleans his face, the sins of his hearing and seeing fallout with the first drop (of water). Then, when be cleans his two arms past the elbows and his two feet past the ankles, he becomes free of all his offences and sins, just as he was, the day his mother gave him birth. He (then) said: When he stands for Salat Allah elevates his position, and if he (merely) sits (without standing for Salat) even then his sitting is free of sins. (Musnad Ahmad)

253. lbn Umar Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: For a person who performs Wudu (while already) in a state of purity, for him ten virtues are written. (Abu Dawud)

Note: Islamic scholars have written that condition for making fresh Wudu, while already in a state of Wudu, is that one has performed any form of worship with the previous Wudu. (Badhl-ul-Majhud)

254. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasaliam said: Were it not (for the fear) of overburdening my Ummah, I would have ordered them to (brush their teeth with) Siwak at every Salat. (Muslim)

Note: Siwak or Miswak is a natural tooth brush prepared from the roots or branches of various trees and bushes. The most common and beneficial is that of the root of the Salvadora Persica, a wild desert plant known in Arabic as Arak, and in Urdu as Peelu.

255. Abu Ayyub Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Four characteristics pertain to the practices of the Prophets (Messengers): Modesty, use of perfume, use of Siwak, and marriage. (Tirmidhi)

256. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Ten characteristics pertain to the practices of all the Prophets: Clipping of mustaches, letting the beard grow, use of Siwak, snuffing up the water (to clean the nose), cutting the nails, washing the finger joints (similarly all parts of the body where dirt gets collected, for example holes of the ears, nostrils and armpits etc. plucking the hairs under the armpits, shaving the pubes, and cleaning one's private parts with water after relieving himself. The narrator of this HadTth, Mus'ab Rahmatullahi 'alaihi says that I have forgotten the tenth, it may have been the rinsing of the mouth. (Muslim)

257. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The Siwak is a means of purifying the mouth and pleasing the Rabb. (Nasai)

258. Abu Umamah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whenever Jibrail 'Alaihis salam came to me he stressed the use of Siwak to the extent that I feared (from the excessive use of Siwak) I may injure my gums. (Musnad Ahmad)

259. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that whenever Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam slept in the night or day, as he awoke he would brush his teeth with Siwak before performing Wudu. (Abu Dawud)

260. Ali Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Verily, when an 'Abd (the slave of Allah) uses the Siwak, then stands in Salat, an angel stands behind him, listening closely to his recitation. He then draws closer and closer to him, until he places his mouth upon the mouth (of the one reciting the Qur'an). Whatever he recites from the Qur'an, it enters inside the angel; so purify your mouths (with Siwak) for (the recitation of) the Qur'an. (Bazzar, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

261. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Two Rak'at (of Salat offered) with Siwak, are superior in virtue to seventy Rak'at (offered) without Siwak. (Bazzar, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

262. Hudhaifah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that when Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam used to stand for Tahajjud, he would properly clean his teeth with the Siwak. (Muslim)

Note:Tahajjud is a highly virtuous optional Salat performed in the latter part of the night.

263. Shuraih Rahimahullah said that I asked 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha: What would Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam do first upon entering his house? She replied: He would use the Siwak. (Muslim)

264. Zaid Ibn Khalid Al-JuhanT Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam would not leave his house for any one of the Salat until he would use the Siwak. (Tabarani, Majma- 'uz-Zawaid)

265. Abu Khairah SubahT Radiyallahu 'anhu said that I was among the delegation that came to Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam, and he provided us with the (roots of) Arak (bush) to use as Siwak, so we said to him: O Rasulallah! We have the branches (of the date tree for Miswak), but we accept your generosity and your gift. (Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

The A'mal (Deeds) And Fadail (Virtues) Of The Masjid

Verses Of Quran

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
The masjids of Allah are only to be maintained and served by those, who believe in Allah, and the Last Day, and establish Salat, and give Zakat, and fear none save Allah, for (such) it is expected that, they will be of the (rightly) guided. [At-Tawbah 9: 18]

Note: The maintenance of a masjid implies that all the actions of the Masjid of Rasuluilah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam are done in it. This includes Da'wat of Iman gatherings in which belief in the unseen is developed, study circles on the virtues of A'mal, acquiring knowledge and Dhikr, the religious education and training of those coming from outside, worship and the services of guests. Another important aspect of the Masjid of Rasuluilah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam was the sending of the Jama'ats (groups) for Da'wat work, both within the country and to foreign countries. Similarly receiving and being host to Jama'ats from within the country and abroad. This is generally expressed as "Hijrat and Nusrat". (Bayan-ul-Quran)

Describing the condition of the men who have been rightly guided Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says:
In houses (masjids) which Allah has ordered to be raised (to be cleaned, and to be honoured), in them His Name is remembered (i.e. Da'wat, recitation of the Qur'an, learning and teaching the commandments of Allah, worship). Therein glorify Him (Allah) in the mornings and in the evenings.
Men whom neither trade nor sale (business) diverts from the Remembrance of Allah (with heart and tongue), nor from establishing Salat, nor from giving Zakat. They fear a Day when hearts will be shaken and eyes will be rolled (out of the horror of the torment of the Day of Resurrection). [An-Nur 24: 36-37 ]

Ahadith

266. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasuluilah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The parts of the land liked most by Allah are its masjids, and the parts of land disliked most by Allah are its markets. (Muslim)

267. Ibn 'Abbas Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that masjids are the houses of Allah on the earth. They shine to the dwellers of the sky, just as the stars shine to the dwellers of the earth. (Tabarani, Majma-'uz- Zawaid)

268. Umar ibn Khattab Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: Anyone who builds a masjid where the name of Allah is remembered and (He is praised), Allah will build a palace for him in Paradise. (Ibn Hibban)

269. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever goes to the masjid in the morning or in the evening, Allah prepares for him a good hospitality in Paradise as often as he goes to the masjid, morning or evening (Bukhari)

270. Abu Umamah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Going to the masjid in the morning or evening is part of Jihad in the path of Allah. (Tabarani, Majma'uz- Zawaid)

271. 'Abdullah Ibn 'Amr ibnil 'As Radiyallahu 'anhuma narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam used to say upon entering the masjid: I seek refuge in Allah the Greatest, and in His Noble Being, and in His Eternal Domain, from the accursed Shaitan. When this Du'a is being recited, Shaitan exclaims: He is protected from me for the rest of the day. (Abu Dawud)

272. Abu Sa'id Khudri Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever loves the masjid, Allah loves him. (Tabarani, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

273. Abu Darda' Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates: I heard Rasullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam saying: The masjid is the house of every pious person who fears Allah. For the one who spends most of his time in the masjid, Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala has taken upon Himself to comfort him, to bestow Mercy upon him, to make the crossing over Bridge of Sirat easy for him, and to grant him His Pleasure and Paradise. (Tabarani, Bazzar, Majma'uz-Zawaid)

274. Mu'adh Ibn Jabal Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Verily, Shaitan is the wolf to man, like the wolf that catches sheep; the one which is solitary and the one which stays away from the flock. So avoid staying alone in valleys. Hold firmly to Jamaat (collectiveness), to live with the common people, and to the masjid. (Musnad Ahmad)

275. Abu Sa'id Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Raullullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said; If you see a man frequenting the masjid, bear witness to his Iman. Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala says: Only he will frequent the masjids, who believes in Allah and the Last Day. (Tirmidhi)

276. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: A Muslim that makes the masjid his abode for Salat and Dhikr, Allah is overjoyed with him as a family is overjoyed by the return of an absent relative. (Ibn Majah)

Note: Making his abode means that he develops a special attachment to the masjid, and remains there for a major part of his time.

277. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: Whoever has made the masjid his abode, and then was pre-occupied by some matter or illness, and subsequently returned to the masjid as before, Allah is overjoyed with him just as a family is overjoyed by the return of an absent relative, (Ibn Khuzaimah)

278. Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: The people who frequent the masjids are (like) their pegs. The angels are their companions. If they are absent the angels search for them, and if they become sick the angels visit them, and if they are in need the angels help them. He (also) said: The one who sits in the masjid, derives at least one benefit from these three: Either he meets a Muslim brother from whom he may benefit in terms of Deen, or he hears a word of wisdom, or receives a Mercy from Allah for which every Muslim waits for. (Musnad Ahmad)

279. 'A'ishah Radiyallahu 'anha narrates that Rasiilullah Sallallahu "alaihi wasallam ordered us to build masjids in various localities, and to clean and perfume them. (Abu Dawud)

280. Anas Radiyallahu 'anhu narrates that there was a woman who used to collect rubbish from the masjid. When she died, Nabi Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam was not informed of her burial. Rasiilullah Sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam said: If a person from amongst you dies, then inform me. He then offered Sala-tul-Janazah upon her and said: Verily, I saw her in Paradise because she used to remove rubbish from the masjid. (Tabarani, Majma-'uz-Zawaid)

« Previous | Next »