Bismillahi rahmani rahim

Assalam alaikum warahmatullah wabarakatu 

I was a merchant who used to go through one, city to the other as a tradesman. And I used to pass through this valley... One day I passed through the valley holding my merchandise on top of my camel, when suddenly a thief stops me...in the middle of the valley. Alone. There was no one around. He puts the sword to my neck and he says... I am going to kill you, then take your merchandise. 

The companion said to him, please take everything but spare my life. And the thief said to him, No! I am going to take your merchandise and I'm going to kill you. When the companion found that the thief was insisting on killing him, he said to him... Okay! You can kill me and take my merchandise, but please allow me to do one thing, and then after that you can kill me.

He said, do whatever you like, but then I'm gonna wait for you and kill you. He said allow me to pray two rakaahs. Subhan Allah! The thief made a mistake by allowing him to pray two rakaahs. So he prayed the two rakaahs, he prayed the first rakat then he prayed the second rakah.

And in his Sujud (prostration) because Rasul said, you are closest to Allah when you are in your prostration, so ask Allah for the things you want in your prostration. In his Sujud,  he said one dua, I'm going to just mention a part of it. It is in three sections.. 

And he said, "I ask you Oh Allah, by the light of your face which has filled, the pillars of your throne.." And then he began to ask Him by Alla of His names, (by His wonderful attributes), he finally said.. Oh the One Who responds to dua of the one in need.. He says, save me from this thief. And then he said,  three times... OH THE ONE WHO SAVES, SAVE ME.

He said, he did not complete his dua, then all of a sudden he hears the galloping of a horse, racing so quickly, and so fast, on top of that horse was a man (a warrior) and he had covered his face. With a sword in his right arm, the thief looked at him,  before he could do anything (wack) he chopped and slit his throat, and the thief died. 

The companion looked up, hugged him and kissed him, and he said to him, May Allah bless you. Where you from? Where did you come from? He said.. I am an Angel from the fourth sky. You asked Allah in the first part of your dua (and we heard you). Then you asked with the second part of the dua (the  sky shook). Then you asked in the third part of the dua (we raced to Allah), so I raced and beat the other angels to Allah and said O My Lord send me, and so Allah allowed me. 

Then the Angel faded away.

The dua of a person who is in need, Allah will respond. 

[ MERCIFUL SERVANT ]

Bismillahi rahmani rahim

Assalam alaikum warahmatullah wabarakatu 

QUESTION

I am a young Muslim man who believes in Allah and His Messengers and His Books, praise be to Allah. But sometimes I feel too lazy to pray. I am looking for a solution and a way to make me not be so lazy. Please note that this is what I want but the tricks of the Shaytaan are too strong.

ANSWER

Praise be to Allah.

If a person truly believes in Allah, His Messengers and His Books, and believes that prayer is obligatory and is the greatest pillar of Islam after the Shahaadatayn, we cannot imagine that he would neglect to pray or be careless in performing the prayers. Rather he would never feel at ease unless he performs this important ritual regularly.

The more a person’s faith increases, the more he will be concerned to do that which Allah has enjoined upon him, and this is also because of his strong faith. Hence the way to make you pray more regularly may be summed up as follows:

1 – You should believe firmly that prayer is obligatory and that it is the greatest pillar of Islam. You should realize that a stern warning is issued to the one who neglects prayer, and he is a kaafir who is beyond the pale of Islam according to the more correct of the two scholarly opinions, based on a great deal of evidence, such as the hadeeth in which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Between a man and shirk and kufr there stands his giving up prayer.”  [Narrated by Muslim, 82.] And he (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The covenant that stands between us and them is prayer; whoever gives it up is a kaafir.” [Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 2621; al-Nasaa’i, 463; Ibn Maajah, 1079; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi]

2 – You should understand that delaying prayer beyond the time when it is due is a major sin, because Allah says (interpretation of the meaning): "Then, there has succeeded them a posterity who have given up As‑Salaah (the prayers) [i.e. made their Salaah (prayers) to be lost, either by not offering them or by not offering them perfectly or by not offering them in their proper fixed times] and have followed lusts. So they will be thrown in Hell” [Maryam 19:59] Ibn Mas’ood said concerning al-Ghayy [translated in the verse quoted above as Hell): This is a valley in Hell which is very deep and foul. And Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):  “So woe unto those performers of Salaah (prayers) (hypocrites). Those who delay their Salaah (prayer from their stated fixed times)” [al-Maa’oon :4,5]

3 – You should strive to offer the prayers in congregation in the mosque, and not neglect any of them, knowing that praying in congregation in the mosque is obligatory according to the more sound of the two scholarly opinions, based on a great deal of evidence, such as the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him): “Whoever hears the call to prayer and does not respond, his prayer is not valid unless he has an excuse.” [Narrated by Ibn Maajah, 793; also by al-Daaraqutni and al-Haakim, who classed it as saheeh; also classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Ibn Maajah] Muslim (653) narrated that Abu Hurayrah said: A blind man came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and said: “O Messenger of Allah, I do not have anyone to guide me to the mosque,” and he asked the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) to give him a dispensation allowing him to pray in his home and he allowed him that, then when he turned away he called him back and said: “Can you hear the call to prayer?’ He said, “Yes.” He said: “Then answer it.” And there is other evidence too. See question no. 40113. 

4 – There is the hope that if you adhere to that, you will be included among the seven whom Allah will shade with His shade (on the Day of Resurrection), among whom is “a young man who grew up worshipping his Lord” and “a man whose heart was attached to the mosque”. [Al-Bukhaari, 660; Muslim, 1031]

5 – You will earn the great reward for prayer, especially prayer in congregation. In al-Saheehayn it is narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “A man’s prayer in congregation is twenty-five times better than his praying in his house or marketplace, because when he does wudoo’ and does it well, then goes out to the mosque, only going there to pray, he does not take a single step but he is raised in status and a sin is erased thereby. When he prays, the angels continue to send blessings upon him so long as he is still in the place where he prayed, (saying), ‘O Allah, send blessings on him, O Allaah have mercy on him.’ And one of you is still in a state of prayer so long as he is waiting for the prayer.” [Al-Bukhaari, 647; Muslim, 649] Muslim (232) narrated that ‘Uthmaan ibn ‘Affaan said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) say: “Whoever does wudoo’ for prayer and does wudoo’ well, then walks to (perform) the prescribed prayer, and offers the prayer with the people or with the congregation or in the mosque, Allah will forgive him his sins.”

6 – You should read about the virtue of prayer, and the sin of those who are careless or too lazy to pray. We advise you in particular to read the book Al-Salaah, limadha (Prayer – why?) by Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ismaa’eel al-Muqaddim; and listen to the lecture, “Limadha la tusalli (Why don’t you pray?) by Shaykh Muhammad Husayn Ya’qoob, as these will be very beneficial for you in sha Allah.

7 – You should choose good friends who are keen to pray and pay attention to that, and keep away from those who are the opposite, because a person is influenced by his friends.

8 – Keep away from sin in all aspects of your life, and adhere to the rulings of sharee’ah in your dealings with others, especially with women, because sin is one of the things that most distract a person from doing acts of worship and increase the Shaytaan’s influence on him.

We ask Allah to make us and you among His righteous slaves and those who are close to Him.

And Allah knows best.

Islam Q&A. [Adopted from Muslim by Choice]

Bismillah ir-rahman ir-rahim

Assalam alaikum warahmatullah warahmatullah wabarakatu

Sajdah is a unique position or stance in the regular prayers, which a Muslim is supposed to offer at least five times a day. Although the basic purpose of obligatory prayers is not to provide an exercise for people yet it is being increasingly recognized that it has plenty of medical advantages for the human body. Here it is worth mentioning that Holy Prophet Muhammad has mentioned in a hadith in Ibn Majah that prayer is a cure for many diseases. The fact is that a person who offers his prayers regularly that too in the mosque is protected from many diseases which he many not even know.

The position of Sajdah in which the forehead touches the earth is exclusively associated with the Muslim form of prayer. It is the climax of a Muslim’s prayer and as mentioned in a Hadith a Muslim is nearest to Allah in this position. Abu Huraira (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the messenger of Allah (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “The nearest a servant comes to his Lord is when he is prostrating himself, so make supplication (in this state)” [Sahih al-Bukhari] A’ishah Siddiqa (radiAllahu anha) narrates that The Prophet (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) used to prolong the prostration to such an extent that one could recite fifty verses (of the Qur’an) before he would lift his head [Sahih al-Bukhari] In another Hadith narrated by Anas bin Malik (radiAllahu anhu) the Prophet (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) advised Muslims to perform Ruku (bowing) and Sajdah properly. In another Hadith the Prophet (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) advised to perform Sajdah and Bowing calmly and to get up only when the body has come to ease.

In supplication for the victory, He (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) also performed long bowing (Ruku) and Sajdah in the special prayers at the time of eclipse. Hence the first positive effect upon a person who prostrates or does Sajdah is that he comes nearest to Allah and hence in that condition he can supplicate . This is a great psychological advantage and it gives relief to the person concerned as life is full of worries and in this position he gets at least a transient refuge from the agonizing problems. When a person goes to the position of prostration Sajdah his whole body is in active motion. This position can be considered as a mini dive as the musalli (one who offers prayer) goes to rest his forehead on the ground while his hands are placed at the sides . This brings most of the body muscles if not all in active motion and serves to give them some exercise. The hands are then specifically stretched out and thence the forearm as well as arm muscles are supposed to bear the weight in the Sajdah position. It gives good exercise to the muscles of the upper limb. The Prophet (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) in a hadith advised not to put the forearms flatly on the ground but to keep them elevated above ground and this is better for the forearm and arm muscles.

Sujud is a unique position as this is the only position in which brain (or head) becomes lower than the heart and hence for the first time the blood gushes towards the brain with full force whereas in all other positions (even when lying) brain is above the heart when it has to work against gravity to send blood to the brain. In the position of Sajdah due to the increased blood supply the brain receive more nourishment and it has good effect upon memory, vision, hearing, concentration, psyche and all other cognitive abilities. People who offer their prayers regularly have more will power and can cope with the difficulties of life in a much better manner. They have less incidence of headaches, psychological problems and other defects of cognitive function.

The neck muscles get best exercise. They have to bear the load when the forehead lies at the ground hence the neck muscles become stronger. One can note the tense pressure at the neck muscles in the position of Sajdah specially the active motion of the neck and the facial muscles when the head is being lifted. (e.g. one inch above the ground) and it will be noticed that they are in a very active motion. More strong cervical muscles mean the cervical vertebra will be better protected. Strength of cervical muscles is important as the head rests upon cervical vertebra supported by cervical musculature. In fact head performs rotator movements over the cervical vertebra. In any accident cervical neck examination is especially important to the physicians because of its extraordinary importance. It is uncommon that a person who offers his prayers regularly will get the usual neck myalgias or cervical spondylosis as the neck muscles particularly become very strong due to the 34 sajdahs offered daily in five prayers. Position of Sajdah is also said to be a good treatment for the retroversion of uterus, a disease of women.

Most of us do not know that the position of Sajdah is an excellent exercise for men (for manpower). It may be a good information to the Viagra dependents. While getting up from Sajdah the perennial muscles are one of those muscles which have to pull the trunk back to sitting position and they contract actively. Similarly while standing up from Sajdah the perennial muscles are again actively mobilised and this gives much strength to the muscles important for manpower.

Sajdah also has positive effects upon the back muscles as while going into Sajdah and getting up from it the back muscle contract actively and they become stronger. Probably it is because of this reason that a person who is regular in prayers will uncommonly get backache. After performing Sajdah either the musalli stands up or he sits to pray Attahiyyat. In this position the person sits calmly while his hands rest at his thighs which are folded backwards. This is much similar to the relaxation position of Yoga and has soothing effect upon one’s health and mentation.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) used to elongate the position of Ruku (bending) and Sajdah positions and he advised to do so. In the light of the above facts it is appropriate to say that from medical point of view as well this advice is a golden rule for health. Finally it must be reminded that prayer is not meant to be an exercise. However there are a lot of medical advantages associated with it.

Still the best blessing is the peace of mind, which a person derives by the accomplishment of his duty to Allah by fulfilling an obligation.

Dr. Muhammad Karim Beebani

And Allah knows best. 

Bismillah ir-rahman ir-rahim

Assalam alaikum warahmatullah wabarakatu 

Alhamdhulillah for Allah grant us this chance to be and experience another Ramadhan but apart from all the Ibaadah we know we are to strive in. What should we not do? In Sha Allah Allah will grant us His Mercy and May He accept our fast.

MISTAKE #1: FASTING AND NOT PRAYING

Between a man and shirk and kufr there stands his giving up prayer.  [Muslim] The fasting of one who does not pray will not be accepted. This is because not praying constitutes kufr. In fact, it is likely that none of his good deeds will be accepted unless Allah decides to have mercy. This post will not go into any further details about "not praying", as enough has been written elsewhere about its consequences. Recommend that you take a look at the post 'SALAH'.

MISTAKE #2: TAKING RAMADHAN AS A RITUAL

For many of us Ramadhan has lost its spirituality and has become more of a ritual than a form of Ibadaah. We fast from morning to night just because everyone around us is fasting too. We forget that it’s a time to purify our hearts and our souls from all evil. We forget to make dua, forget to beseech Allah to forgive us and ask Him to save us from the Fire. We stay away from food and drinks but that's not the significant point. 

MISTAKE #3: SKIPPING SUHUR

And He (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Eat suhur for in suhur there is blessing." [Bukhari and Muslim]  The Prophet (prace and endings of Allah be upon him) said: "The thing that differentiates between our fasting and the fasting of the People of the Book (Jews and Christians) is eating suhur." [Muslim 13/56, Abu Dawud 14/31; Nasai 22/77] Some people are too scared to fast if they miss Suhur. However, this is a kind of cowardice and love of ease. What is the big deal if you missed a few morsels of food? So it's anybody's guess if you miss Suhur then you can still keep the fast. Obedience to Allah overcomes everything. If one misses Suhur but gets up before dawn, make an intent and continue your fast. With regard to saying dua everyday, there is no dua that the Muslim should say when starting to fast each day. Rather he should simply have the intention (in his heart) that he is going to fast. The intention (niyyah) is an action of the heart. The Muslim should resolve in his heart that he is going to fast tomorrow. It is not prescribed for him to utter it out loud and say, “I intend to fast” and other phrases that have been innovated by some people.

MISTAKE #4: EMPHASIS ON FOOD AND DRINKS

Allah says in Quran 7:31 says ".....and eat and drink but waste not by extravagance, certainly He (Allah) likes not Al-Musrifoon (those who waste by extravagance)". For some people, the entire month of Ramadan revolves around food. They spend the ENTIRE day planning, cooking, shopping and thinking about food, instead of concentrating on Salaah, Qur'an and other acts of worship. All they can think of is FOOD. So much so that they turn the month of 'fasting' into the month of 'feasting'. Come Iftaar time, their table is a sight to see, with the multitudes and varieties of food, sweets and drinks. They are missing the very purpose of fasting, and thus, increase in their greed and desires instead of learning to control them. It is also waste & extravagance. Some of the sisters (either by their own choice or forced by their husbands) are cooking almost ALL day and evenings so that by the end of the day, they are too tired to even pray Isha, let alone pray Taraweeh or Tahajjud or even read Qur'an. This is the month of mercy and forgiveness. So turn off that stove as much as possible and focus on reinforcing your Imaan! Remind your husbands the real intent of Ramadhan. In Sha Allah you will be rewarded for this.

MISTAKE #5: SPENDING MOST OF THE TIME COOKING

Some people stuff themselves at Suhur until they are ready to burst, because they think this is the way to not feel hungry during the day. And some people eat at Iftaar, like there is no tomorrow, trying to 'make up for the food missed.' However, this is completely against the Sunnah. Moderation is the key to everything. The two hadiths below is to be followed throughout the year, and not just in Ramadhan.

MISTAKE #6: EATING TOO MUCH IS FORBIDDEN

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "The son of Adam does not fill any vessel worse than his stomach; for the son of Adam a few mouthfuls are sufficient to keep his back straight. If you must fill it, then one-third for food, one-third for drink and one-third for air." [Ibn Majah, 4/29/3349] Too much food distracts a person from many deeds of obedience and worship, makes him lazy and also makes the heart heedless. It was said to Imam Ahmad (May Allah have mercy on him): “Does a man find any softness and humility in his heart when he is full?” He said, “I do not think so.”

MISTAKE #7: EXTRAVAGANT IFTAR PARTIES

Although, inviting each other for breaking fast is something good and encouraged. However some people go to extremes with lavish 'Iftaar parties' with all sorts of disobedience to Allah, from flirting, mixing of the gender and hijab-less women, to show-off and extravagance, to heedlessness to Salah, and Taraweeh to even music.

MISTAKE #8: SLEEPING ALL DAY

A good deed in Ramadan is multiplied 70 times. An act of worship done in Ramadhan brings a greater reward from Allah than one done at any other time. Some people spend their entire day (or a major part of it) 'sleeping away their fast'. Is this what is really required of us during this noble month? These people also are missing the purpose of fasting and are slaves to their desires of comfort and ease. They cannot 'bear' to be awake and face a little hunger or exert a little self-control. For a fasting person to spend most of the day asleep is nothing but, negligence on his part.

MISTSKE #9: NOT FASTING BECAUSE OF WORK

Fasting is Fardh, for all sane Muslims. Exams or work is NOT one of the excuses allowed by the Shari'ah to fast. You can do your studying and revision at night if it is too hard to do that during the day. Also remember that pleasing and obeying Allah is much more important. Besides, if you will fulfil your obligation to fast, even if you have to study, Allah will make it easy for you and help you in everything you do.

MISTAKE #10: WASTING TIME,  A LOT OF IT

The month of Ramadhan is a precious, precious time. Before we know it, this month of mercy and forgiveness will be over, we should try and spend every moment possible in the worship of Allah so that we can make the most of this blessing. However, there are some of us who waste away their day playing video games, or worse still, watching irrelevant programmes on TV, movies or even listening to music. A Muslim does not have any time to waste. The Quran is clear is stating that when we are brought to life once again (in Qiyamah), we will feel as if we stayed in this world only for an evening or a morning. [Al-Quran 79:46]

MISTAKE #11: NOT GIVING UP BAD HABITS

Some of us fast but do not give up lying, cursing, fighting, backbiting, etc. and some of us fast but do not give up cheating, stealing, dealing in haraam, etc. and all kinds of impermissible things without realizing that the purpose of fasting is to not stay away from food and drink; rather the aim behind it is to fear Allah. It must be noted that in Ramadhan or otherwise, all these acts are forbidden. If you particularly do it in Ramadhan, it nullifies your fast. Yes! For instance if you backbite while fasting in Ramadhan, it nullifies your fast. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Whoever does not give up false speech and acting upon it, and ignorance, Allah has no need of him giving up his food and drink." [Sahih Bukhari 1903, 6057] One should also protect himself from the "zina of eyes" . Zina means adultery/fornication. So Zina of eyes would mean looking at those things that are forbidden; in this case would be looking at non-mahram women in a way that will arouse one's interests. Hence, the Quran commands men to lower their gaze to preserve their chastity. By the way, this commandment is not just for Ramadhan but men and women should practice this throughout the year.

MISTAKE #12: SMOKING

Smoking is forbidden in Islam whether during Ramadhan or outside of it, as it is one of evil things. And this includes ALL kinds of 'smoking material'. Example: cigars, cigarettes, pipes, Sheesha, hookah etc. It is harmful, not only to the one smoking, but also to the ones around him. It is also a means of wasting ones wealth. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "There should be no harming or reciprocating harm." [Ibn Majah 2340] This is especially true during fasting and it invalidates the fast. [Fatwa-Ibn 'Uthaymeen]

MISTAKE #13: STOPING SUHUR AT IMSAAK

Some people stop eating Suhoor 10-15 minutes earlier than the time of Fajr to observe 'Imsaak'. Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen (may Allah be pleased with him) said: "This is a kind of bid'ah (innovation) which has no basis in the Sunnah. Rather the Sunnah is to do the opposite. Allah Subhanahu wa'taala allows us to eat until dawn.” This 'imsaak' which some of the people do is an addition to what Allah has prescribed, so it is false. It is a kind of extremism in religion, and The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Those who go to extremes are doomed, those who go to extremes are doomed, those who go to extremes are doomed."  [Muslim 2670]

MISTAKE #14: DELAYING TO BREAK THE FAST

Some people wait until the adhaan finishes or even several minutes after that, just to be 'on the safe side'. However, the Sunnah is to hasten to break the fast, which means breaking fast whenever the adhaan starts, right after the sun has set. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said: "This is what the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) used to do." [Sahih Muslim] Determine to the best of your ability, the accuracy of your clock, calendar, etc. and then have tawakkul on Allah and break your fast exactly on time.

MISTAKE #15: DELAYING MAGHRIB

Some people put so much food in their plates when breaking their fast and continue eating, enjoying dessert, drinking tea, etc., until they miss Maghrib. That is obviously not right. Once you are done with the prayer, you can always go back and eat some more if you wish. 

MISTAKE #16: MISSING THE GOLD TICKET

The prayer of the fasting person is guaranteed to be accepted at the time of breaking fast. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Three prayers are not rejected: the prayer of a father, the prayer of a fasting person, and the prayer of a traveller." [Al-Bayhaqi, 3/345] Instead of sitting down and making Dua at this precious time, some people forego this beautiful chance, and are too busy frying samosas, talking, setting the food, filling their plates and glasses, etc. Think about it, is food more important than the chance to have your sins forgiven or the fulfillment of your Duas.

MISTAKE #17: FASTING OR DIETING?

Do not make the mistake of fasting with the intention to diet. That is one of the biggest mistakes some of us make (especially sisters). Fasting is an act of worship and can only be for the sake of Allah alone. Always remember that 'niyaat' (intention) plays the most important part of a Muslim. A believer will be rewarded or punished based on his intention. So if dieting is the intention then you will not get any reward from Allah. Having the right intention is a boon.

MUSTAKE #18: PRAYING ONLY ON THE 27TH

Some people pray ONLY on the 27th night to seek Lailat ul-Qadr, neglecting all other odd nights in the last 10 days of Ramadhan. Who told you it's the 27th? One of the most virtuous night is 29th, the night before Eid (if the new moon is sighted on the night of 29th). Many are out in the markets or streets to shop. Since Lailat ul-Qadr is likely to be on the night before Eid, it is mustahab to be engaged in prayer and other acts of worship. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Seek Lailat ul-Qadr among the odd numbered nights of the last ten nights of Ramadhan (means 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 29th)." [Bukhari 1913; Muslim 1169]

MISTAKE #19: WASTING THE LAST PART OF RAMADHAN

Some people waste the entire last ten days of Ramadhan preparing for Eid, shopping and frequenting malls, etc. neglecting ibaadah and Lailatul Qadr. Although, The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) used to strive the hardest during the last ten days of Ramadhan in worship. [Musnad Ahmad, Sahih Muslim] In fact you should wind-up all the worldly affairs in Shaaban, so that they can focus on Quran and Ibadah in the month of Ramadhan. The last ashra is the most crucial part of the holy month. Be on the guard !! Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said: "When the (last) ten nights began, the Messenger of Allah would tighten his waist-wrapper (i.e., strive hard in worship or refrain from intimacy with his wives), stay awake at night and wake his family."  [Bukhari 1920 and Muslim 1174]

May Allah give us hidayat to spend time in Ramadhan the way our Prophet and Sahabas spent time. May Allah guide us to the straight path and give us the best in this world and in the Hereafter.

Bismillah ir-rahman ir-rahim

Assalam alaykum warahmatullah wabarakatu 

I really thought it was only in my country we had this not quite a little issue, since it’s ever cold in the morning and the sleep, too sweet and comfortable. Some Muslims around the world have trouble waking up for Fajr, the morning prayer. However few realize its importance. Despite of all the talks from lectures, Islamic audios, etc. Muslims are still having trouble with this. Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “During sleep, Shaytan knots at the back of the head each of you, and he breathes the following words at each knot, ‘the night is long, so keep on sleeping.’ If that person wakes up and celebrates the praises of Allah, then the knot is undone, and when he performs ablutions the second knot is undone, and when he prays, all the knots are undone, and he gets up in the morning lively and in good spirits, otherwise he gets up in low spirits and lethargic.” [Bukhari]

Prayer is one of the pillars of Islam. As Muslims we are commanded to pray five obligatory prayers. We have khamsa salawat fikuli yamun wa layla and although all prayers are important, the Messenger of Allah said, “No prayer is harder for the hypocrites than the Fajr and the ‘Isha prayers and if they knew the reward for these prayers at their respective times, they would certainly present themselves (in the mosques) even if they had to crawl.” [Bukhari] But you see the problem is either we sleep through the alarm or hit snooze early in the morning several times and Fajr just passes by. Gone. Others come up with excuses as to why they can’t wake up especially on time, its sad really, how do you make an excuse about Salah. And yes, although it is permissible to make up Fajr even after sunrise (don’t make it an everyday thing), the rewards are much greater for those who wake up to pray on time before the sun begins to illuminate the skyline. Abu Hurairah said, “I heard Allah’s Messenger saying, ‘the reward of a prayer in congregation is twenty seven times greater than that of a prayer offered by a person alone. The angels of the night and the angels of the day gather at the time of Fajr prayer.’” Then he added, “Recite the Holy Book if you wish, for indeed, the recitation of the Qur’an in the early dawn (Fajr prayer) is ever witnessed.” [Surah Al-‘Isra 17:78], [Bukhari] And in another narration by Muslim the Messenger of Allah said, “…the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) say: He who observed the ‘Isha prayer in congregation, it was as if he prayed up to midnight, and he who prayed the morning prayer in congregation, it was as if he prayed the whole night.”

Prayer is better than sleep, fear Allah and seek to glorify and praise Him in worship. Keep in mind, Allah doesn’t need us, but we definitely need Allah. Even in our Kalima, it is ‘None has the right to be worshipped’ so why would we defy what it is that Allah has commanded us to do? However who performs the morning prayer is in fact under the protection of Allah.

Personally the day becomes productive throughout. But as Mufti Menk in a YouTube video said he got a message about lifting weights, showing how to be strong but the question was, how powerful are you? The Muslim youth of today all want to be and look strong, but how strong are you? Mufti Menki concluded by saying, “If you want to be strong, lift your blanket for Salatul-Fajr.” You might be pushing 100 kilos in the gym but when it comes to Fajr prayer, you find it so hard to lift a blanket that weighs less than a kilo.

Lastly, when you ask for guidance from Allah sincerely, the guidance will not come to you when you’re covered up in blanket, we have to make an effort to please Allah. When it is time for Salatul-Fajr wake up with no excuses, if you slept late make sure you still wake up for Salah. No matter what.

Bismillah ir-rahman ir-rahim

Assalam alaykum warahmatullah wabarakatu

These are some of the common mistakes we tend to make either knowingly or unknowingly. After reading rectify In Sha Allah.

1. Abandoning salah altogether. This is indeed kufr (disbelief) and the evidence is found within the Qur’an the authentic Sunnah and the consensus of the ummah. Allah Subhanahu wa ta’aala states: “If they repent and establish the salah and give the zakah, they are your brothers in faith (deen).” [Al-Qur’aan 9:11] And in Surah, says: “What landed you in As-Saqar (Hell)? They said: We were not of those who made salah (almusalleen)…”[Al-Qur’aan 76:42-43] and so on. As far as the Sunnah: The hadeeth of Jaabir that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Between a man and shirk (what protects him from shirk) is the abandonment of salah.” [Muslim] It is narrated by Abu Dawood, An-Nisaa’i, Ibn Maajah, and At-Tirmidhi on the authority of Buraidah Ibn Al-Husaib from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) who said: “The covenant between us and them (i.e. the Prophet – and/or his successors -and those who claim to be Muslims) is the salah so whosoever abandons it has disbelieved.”[Ahmad and others and it is saheeh] As far as consensus (al-ijmaa’): Abdullah Ibn Shaqeeq (may Allah be pleased with him) stated: “The Companions of Muhammad (radiallahu ‘anhum) did not view the abandonment of any other deed as kufr other than (abandoning) salah.” [At-Tirmidhi and others with an authentic chain]

2. Delaying the salah from its appointed time. This is a violation according to the word of Allah: “Verily the salah has been appointed for the believers at specific times (mawqoot).” [Al-Qur’aan 4:103] Al-Mawqoot indicates a specific appointed time and the postponement of salah beyond the obligatory time (fardh) is a major sin and Allah is the one upon Whom we depend on. On the authority of Anas who said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) saying: “This is the salah of the hypocrite (munaafiq); when he sits observing the sun until it is between the horns of Shaytaan, then he stands to perform four (rakaah) remembering Allah little.” [Muslim] If this is the salah of the hypocrite then what of the salah of someone who postpones the prayer until the complete period of the salah has passed without any excuse?

3. Abandonment of the congregational prayer in the masjid by able men either regularly or on occasion. The commandment has been given to perform the salah in congregation in the masjid. Congregational (Jama’ah) salah is a duty except for those who have a valid excuse according to the sharia’h. The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever hears the call (al-adhaan) and thereafter does not answer it (i.e. attend the congregational salah) there is no salah for him except for a valid excuse.” [Reported by Ibn Maajah and others with a strong chain (isnaad) and Al-Haafith Ibn Hajar said “Its chain is according to the conditions of Muslim”]. Allah also says, “And bow down with those who bow down.” (Al-Qur’aan 2:43] In a hadeeth in Bukhari and Muslim (mutafaqun ‘alaih): “…I would then leave (after the salah has begun) and go to those men who do not attend the salah and burn their houses down over them.”

4. Lack of tranquility (at-tama’neenah) within the salah. This is generally done out of ignorance and it is an open sin because tranquility is a pillar (rukn) of the salah without which the salah is incorrect. The hadeeth about the man who performed his salah badly is a clear evidence for this. The meaning of tama’neenah (tranquility) is that the one praying is tranquil in the rukoo’ (bending), standing (‘itidaal), prostration (sujood), and sitting between the two prostrations (juloos), and he should get in position where every bone settles into place, he should not hasten between portions of the prayer until he has attained tranquility in it and gives each its due time. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said to the one who was rushing through his salah without observing the proper tranquility: “Go back and make salah because you have not made the salah.” And in the hadeeth of Rifaa’ah on the story of the one who prayed badly it goes on: “Then he makes takbeer and bows and puts his hands on his knees until each joint is settled and relaxed. Then he says ‘sami’Allahu liman hamida’ (Allah hears the one who praises Him) then stands up straight until each bone is in its place.”

5. Intentionally preceding the imaam in the movements of the prayer or not following his movements. This nullifies the salaah or rak’ah for whoever bows before his imaam ruins his own rak’ah unless he follows it later with another bowing. Such is likewise with the rest of the arkaan (pillars) of the salaah. It is obligatory for the praying person to follow the imam completely without preceding him or lagging behind him in any rukn (pillar) or more. Abu Dawud and others transmit with an authentic chain from Abu Hurairah that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Verily the imaam is to be completely followed, so if he makes takbeer then you make takbeer and don’t make takbeer until he does so, and if he bows then bow and don’t bow until he does so…" Its origin is in the two saheehs and Bukhari has another like it narrated by Anas. The one who forgets or the one who is ignorant is excused.

6. Standing to complete a missed rak’ah before the imam has completely finished making the second tasleem (i.e closing the prayer by saying ‘As-salaamu ‘alaikum warahmatullahi to the right and left). It is reported in Saheeh Muslim that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Do not precede me in the rukoo’ (bowing) not in the sujood (prostration) nor in going out of the prayer (al-insiraaf).” The scholars have said that the meaning of al-insiraaf is at-tasleem and it is named such because the praying person may leave afterwards and he leaves only after the second tasleem. The one who precedes the imam should stay in his place until the imam has completed his salah, then he should stand and complete whatever he missed.

7. Making the intention for prayer aloud. This is a bid’ah (innovation). The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) never made the intention for salah aloud. Ibn Al-Qayyim, (may Allah be pleased with him), stated in “Zaad Al-Ma’aad” or in “Al-Hudaa An-Nabawiyy”: “When the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) would stand for salah he said: ‘Allahu Akbar’ and said nothing else before it nor did he pronounce his intention aloud. Nor did he say: ‘I will pray for Allah salah such and such while facing the Qiblah four raka’aat as imam or follower’. Nor did he say: ‘Fulfilling it on time, not making it up, nor the time of fardh’ all ten of which are bid’ah for which no one has reported that he did with an authentic chain, nor even a weak one, nor musnad, nor mursal, nor a single word. Indeed not one narration of the sahaabah or the best of the following generation (taabi’een), nor the four imaams.”

8. Not reciting Al-Fatihah in the salah. The recitation of Al-Fatihah is a pillar (rukn) and the salah of whoever does not recite it is void. This is according to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) saying: ‘Whoever makes a salah wherein Al-Faatihah not recited then it is khidaaj (miscarried)” - and he repeated it three times – incomplete. (Muslim from Abu Hurairah)Also reported in the two saheehs is the hadeeth from ‘Ubaadah Ibn Saamit (may Allah be pleased with him) marfoo’an (attributable to the Prophet of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him): “The salaah is null for whoever has not recited the Opening of the Book.” In another wording from ‘Ubaadah: “Could it be that you recite behind your imam? We said: Yes. He said: Don’t do so except with the Opening of the Book (Al-Faatihah) for the salah is null of whoever does not recite it. [Ahmed, Abu Dawood, At-Tirmidhi, Ibn Hibbaan. This is evidence of its obligation for the follower. Recitation of the follower is absolute or in the aloud prayers as opposed to what is long known. Whether the recitation of Al-Fatihah is absolute or just in the prayers recited aloud is an old difference of opinion among the scholars. Is it waajib or dropped? The majority of scholars (al-jumhoor) say it is dropped however doing so is more clear from possible error and more precaution for deen. Most of those who have the opinion of it being dropped say that it is nevertheless desirable to recite it.

9. Recitation of the Qur’an in rukuu’ (bowing position) or during sujud (prostration). This is prohibited based on a narration from ibn Abbaas (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “I have been prevented from reciting the Qur’an while bowing or in prostration…” [Muslim] Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) narrates he said: “The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) prevented me from reciting the Qur’an while bowing or prostrating.” [Muslim and others]

10. Raising the eyes to the sky (gazing upwards) during salah or looking to the right and left without due cause. As far as raising the eyes, it is forbidden and bears the threat of punishment. It is narrated by Jabir Ibn Samurah (may Allah be pleased with him) who said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Let the people stop raising their eyes to the sky in the salah or let their sight not return to them.” [Muslim]

11. Sitting on one’s haunches (Al-Iq’aa) during the salah and prostrating with the elbows (AlIftiraash) on the ground. Al-Iqaa’ is forbidden as related by Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) who said: “My dear friend forbade me three things: He forbade me from pecking like a rooster [just touching the head in prostration – trans], sitting on the haunches like a dog, and looking around like a fox.” Transmitted by Ahmed and others and its isnaad (chain) has by graded hasan (good) by Al-Mundhiri and Al-Haithami. The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) forbade a man from spreading his arms on the ground like a beast of prey. Summarizing a hadeeth collected by Muslim from ‘Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) as well as by At-Tirmidhi, Ahmed and others from Jaabr (may Allah be pleased with them) marfoo’an (attributable to the Prophet): “If any of you prostrates (sajdah) then keep straight and not spread his arms like the sitting of a dog.”

12. Wearing a thin (see-through) garment that does not sufficiently cover the ‘awrah. This is an invalidator of the salah because covering one’s awrah is a condition for a sound salah. The man’s ‘awrah is - according to what is most authentic – from the navel to the knee. As for the woman it is all of her body except the hands and face. Nor is there any harm if she covers her face due to the passing by of men or the like. The evidence for covering the shoulders is found in an authentic hadeeth in the collection of Abu Dawood, “A woman should pray in a khimaar (a head cover) and a full, loose-fitting chemise that conceals the tops of her feet.” Bukhaari and Muslim Ibn Qudaamah (Allah have mercy on them) stated: “It is obligatory to cover sufficiently to hide the color of the skin, for if it is thin enough that the color of the skin may be seen from behind to the extent that the whiteness or redness of the skin is perceived than salah in it is not allowed in that covering has not been achieved.”

13. Walking in front of the praying person whether they be the imam or praying alone and stepping over the people during the Jumua’h khutbah. It is a sin upon the person who passes in front of someone who is praying. If the one praying has no sutrah then it should be estimated to be at the place of prostration so the passerby can pass beyond that point. As narrated in the collections of Bukhari and Muslim by Abu Juhaim Ibn Haarith (may Allah be pleased with him), who said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said: “If the one who passes in front of the praying person knew how serious a sin it was for him to do so it would have been better for him to wait for forty than walk in front of him.” [Forty may refer to forty days, months or years, and Allah knows best –Trans.] The one who pushes between the people during the Jumua’h khutbah harms people through his being late for the salah according to the statement of Al-Mustafah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him): “Sit for you have caused harm and come late.” [Ahmed and others. Cutting between the people is forbidden. One who enters the masjid should sit where there is space unless he sees a genuinely open area where he should then go to it and sit.

14. Not saying the takbeeratul-ihraam (opening takbeer) when entering upon the congregation while the imam is in another position. This is a major mistake in that the takbeeratul-ihraam is a pillar (rukn) of the salaah that must be done by the one praying when standing for the salah and then afterwards join the imam in whatever position. If the imam is in rukuu for example, make the takbeer (al-ihraam) and then another takbeer before going into rukuu’ is more complete and thorough. Abu Hurairah (radiallahu ‘anhu) narrated: “The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) would make takbeer when he stood for the salah and would then make takbeer upon bowing.”

15. Not following the imaam (by getting in the same position) when coming late and the imam is sitting or in sujuud (prostrating). It is most preferred and most sure for the one who enters the masjid that he join the imam in whatever position he may be in, whether he be in sajdah or otherwise. It is reported by Abu Dawud and others with a saheeh isnaad that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “If you come to the salah and we are making sujud then you also make sujud. For a worshipper to delay making sajdah is to have in effect prevented himself from an act of worship which Allah loves.” Ali Ibn Abi Talib and Mua’dh ibn Jabal (may Allah be pleased with them) both stated: “The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: If one of you comes to the salaah and the imam is in a position then do what the imam is doing.” This is collected by At-Tirmidhi with a weak isnaad however it is in agreement with the preceeding hadeeth. It is also strengthened by a narration collected by Abu Dawood from Mua’dh (may Allah be pleased with him): “I never saw him (the imam) in a position except I was also upon it. The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Verily Mua’dh has performed an act that is good for you too, so do likewise.”

16. Raising the voice in recitation to the point of distracting those around. It is recommended(mustahabb) that one hears himself, not to the point that it interrupts anyone who is reciting the Qur’an or making salah. Bukhari and Muslim both transmit from ‘Umraan Ibn Husain (may Allah be pleased with him) that, the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) prayed Dhuhr and there was a man behind him reciting ‘sabbihisma rabbikal- ‘alaa’, so when he (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) finished he said: Who among you was reciting or who was the reciter? The man said, "Me." So he (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: I thought that some of you were disputing with me in it.” The scholars state: The meaning of his words is a disapproval of the act. Ibn Taymiyyah (may Allah be pleased with him) stated: “Whoever is reciting the Qur’an and the people are praying additional prayer then it is not correct for him to recite aloud thus disturbing them because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) left some of his companions while they were praying As-Sahr (before dawn) and he said: O people, each of you is seeking salvation from his Rabb therefore do not overpower one another with your recitation.”

17. Not making the lines straight. Allah has ordered the proper performance of salah saying "And establish (aqeemu) the salaah". The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) has likewise stated: “Straighten your lines for verily straightening of the lines is a part of correct performance of salah (iqaamis-salaah)”. Bukhari and Muslim from Anas. Also Bukhari narrates from An-Nu’maan Ibn Basheer (may Allah be pleased with him): “Straighten your lines or Allah will cause opposition between your hearts.” The order to straighten the lines and taking care to do so is mentioned in a number of hadeeth. (It should also be mention that this includes not leaving any gaps in the lines as is all too commonly neglected.)

18. Raising the feet from the ground in sujood. This is against what is commanded as it is confirmed in the two saheehs from Ibn Abbaas (may Allah be pleased with him): “The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was ordered to prostrate upon seven limbs and not to tuck up the hair or the clothes: the forehead (including the nose), the (palms of the) two hands, the knees and the two feet.” So the one praying is commanded to pray with the two feet touching the ground and the complete form of this is to have the toes pointing toward the Qiblah. Part of each foot should touch the ground and if one raises either of them his sajdah (prostration) is incorrect if he continues to do so throughout the prostration.

19. Hastiness of some imams in the salah and lack of tranquility within it, thus not allowing time for the followers to be tranquil in their salah or time to recite Al-Fatihah, especially in the last rakaah. The imam is responsible for making the quality of the salah good because he is being followed. It is therefore his duty to take care of following the Sunnah and tranquility is a pillar (rukn) that the imam is more obliged to take care of due to his being followed. Likewise, the recitation of Al-Fatihah is a rukn that the followers in the salah must be given enough time to fulfill. We have already presented the evidence for the obligation of maintaining tranquility (tama’neenah) and reciting Al-Fatihah.

20. Cracking the knuckles in salah. This is from the detested actions in the salah and is thus forbidden. As far as cracking the knuckles in general, Ibn Abi Shaibah narrates in a statement with good isnaad, from Shu’bah Mawlaa ibn Abbaas as stating: “I prayed next to Ibn Abbas and I cracked my knuckles so when I finished my salah he said, “May you lose your mother! You crack your knuckles while you are in salah?” Forbiddance of cracking the knuckles is transmitted in a marfoo’ hadeeth from Ali in the collection of Ibn Maajah, however, it is weak (da’eef)and not sufficient in an of itself (ghairu munjabir).

21. Intertwining the fingers (at-tashbeek) during and before the salah. This is also among the detestable matters. Ka’ab Ibn ‘Ujrah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrates: "I heard the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) saying: If one of you makes wudhu then goes to the masjid for salaah, let him not clasp his hands together for indeed he is in the salah." Ahmed, Abu Dawood, At-Tirmidhi. With some difference regarding its chain, Ad-Daarimi, Al-Haakim and others transmit from Abu Hurairah in a marfoo’ hadeeth: “If one of you makes wudhu in his house then comes to the masjid, he is in salah until he returns. Therefore do not do not do like this – and he clasped his fingers together.” There are other mutually supporting hadeeths on this matter of tashbeek.

22. Some men praying behind women. Doing this is a detestable action in the salah. It is from the Sunnah that the rows of the women are behind those of the men. The salah of a man behind a women may be a cause of him losing all khushu’ and a disturbance in the salah through his looking (at the woman) or otherwise. A man should therefore never line up for salah behind a woman. This is not detestable if due to necessity such as not missing the Eid salah, or Salatul-Jumu’ah, or the congregational salah and other similar situations.

23. Women coming to the masjid beautified or made-up and perfumed. A woman is coming out to worship her Master, not to show off the beauty of her clothing or self! Perhaps men may see her and she would then be sinful and she would suffer a loss of reward for her deed. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) stated: “Let not any woman who is scented attend the ‘Isha with us.” [Muslim] Imam Ahmed transmits along with Abu Dawud with an authentic chain from Abu Huraira (radiallahu ‘anhu) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Do not forbid the bondwomen of Allah from the houses of Allah, and let them go out tafilaat.” The meaning of the word “tafilaat” is: Not beautified with adornments or perfumed.

And Allah knows best.

Bismillah ir-rahman ir-rahim

Assalam alaykum warahmatullah wabarakatu

Every day we have decisions to make about our lives. And who is the best to ask for the best guidance and wisdom? Allah alone. He knows what’s best for us, and there may be good in what we perceive as bad, and bad in what we perceive as good. Allah says in Surah Al-Imran (Q3:159), “Put your trust in Allah certainly, Allah loves those who put their trust (in Him).”  

If you are ambivalent or unsure about a decision you have to make, there is a specific prayer for guidance (Salah Al-Istikharah) that you can do to ask for Allah’s help in making your decision. When you’re facing a problem, a situation or being hesitant in making a decision, ask Allah to the path best for you concerning the affair. However Imam Nawawi mentions that before the Istikahra prayer, one should seek advice from those whose knowledge, widom and concern one is confident. Ibn Hajar and others mention that one of the benefits of this is to further distance oneself from the desires of egoistic inclinations.

Istikharah is a word which means asking Allah to help one make a choice, meaning choosing the best of two things where one needs to choose one from. Ibn Abi Jamrah said: ‘it is means something specific, with regard to matters that are waajib (obligatory) or mustahabb (liked), there is no need for Istikharah to decide wheter to do them, and with regard to matters that are haram (forbidden) or makrooh (disliked), there is no need for Istikharah to decide whether to avoid them. The issue of Istikharah is confined to matters that are mubaah (allowed), or in mustahabb matters when there is a decision to be made as to which one should be given priority.’

Salah Al-Istikharah is a powerful tool that Allah has given us to ask His guidance in all matters. We should not hesitate to pray Istikharah before making any choice, either big or small. With sincerity in our hearts then Allah will truly guide us even if it clashes with our own desires. Other than the Sunnah Salah, there is a dua that should be said in firm conviction, not begging or pleading but asking Allah clearly for guidance. The reason as to why Istikharah is prescribed is that it is submission to the command of Allah and a practical demonstration that one has no power or strength of one’s own and thus turns to Allah to seek guidance that will combine the goodness of this world and the hereafter.

The description of Salah Al-Istikharah was reported by Jaabir ibn Abd-Allah al-Salami who said, “The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) used to teach his companions to make Istikharah in all things, just as he used to teach them Surahs from the Qur’an. He said, ‘If any one of you is concerned about a decision he has to make, then let him pray two rakaats of non-obligatory prayer, then say: Allahuma inni astakheeruka bi ‘ilmika wa astaqdiruka bi qudratika wa ‘asaluka min fadhlika, fa innaka taqdiru wa laa aqdir, wa ta’alamu wa laa a’lam wa anta ‘allam al-ghuyoob. Allahuma fa in kunta ta’alamu haadha’l-amra [then the matter should be mentioned by name] khayran li or fi deeni wa ma’ashi wa ‘aqibati amri faqdurhu li wa yassirhu li thumma baarik li fihi. Allahumma wa in kunta ta’alamu annahu sharrun li fi deeni wa ma’ashi wa ‘aqibati amri fasrifni ‘anhu waqdur li al-khayr haythu kaana thuma radni bihi. (O Allah, I seek guidance in making a choice by virtue of Your knowledge, and I seek ability by virtue of Your power, and I ask You of Your great bounty. You have power, I have none. And You know, I know not. You are the Knower of hidden things. O Allah, if in Your knowledge it is bad for me and for my religion, my livelihood and my affairs then turn me away from it, and ordain from me the good wherever it may be and make me pleased with it.)” (Bukhari) The schools of thought have agreed that it is mustahabb, after reciting Al-Fatiha to recite Al-Kafirun in the first rakaah and Al-Ikhlas in the second. An-Nawawi said explaining the reason for that: it is appropriate to recite these in prayer, to show sincerity and expressing your leaving your affairs to Allah. They said that it is also permissible to add other verses from Qur’an where the context refers to the idea of making a choice or decision. For the dua’ it can be said either before (in the last sujood) or after salaam like the normal dua’.  The Salah can be repeated if doubts still fall in one’s mind.

When performing Istikharah, one should have an open mind, and not have decided on a specific course. That’s is why there is, ‘if anyone of you is concerned’ this indicates that it should be prayed when one starts to think of the matter, when through the blessings of prayer and dua’ what is good will become clear to him, in contrast to when the idea has taken root and his resolved to do it is firm, in which case his inclination will sway him. After the Salah we should not be impatient. Sabr is required, we do not put Allah on a timetable. We should expect the answers to be in a sort of dream full of sigs and symbols or expect a miracle or ‘feelings’. These things are not necessary, we simply pray and trust Allah to guide us and will answer us in a way that is best. Allah will unfold the events in the direction that will bring khayr for you. It is disliked to hasten in seeking the answer  because the Prophet of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “Your prayers are answered, unless you hasten, saying, ‘I prayed, but no answer came.’”

Another thing to keep in mind is that this Salah is not only when getting married but when choosing what school to go to, what career path to choose, when to go for Hajj and so on. It can be related to any significant or insignificant aspect of a person’s life. There is no room for Istikharah when it comes to things that are obligatory, haram or makrooh. The phrase ‘let him pray two rakaats of non-obligatory prayer.’ This clearly means it is not Fajr prayer, or any other obligatory prayer or Sunnah prayer done after the obligatory prayer. But if it prayed at the same time as intending to pray that particular prayer then it is fine, but not if he did not have this intention.

And Allah knows best.