Prayer - صلاة

Prayer (Salah) in Islam

Salah (صلاة), or the Islamic prayer, is one of the five pillars of Islam and an essential act of worship for every adult Muslim who is required to pray. It is a direct expression of a Muslim's submission to Allah, providing regular opportunities to remember Him, seek His guidance, ask for forgiveness and give thanks for His blessings.

Muslims are required to perform five obligatory prayers each day: Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib and Isha. Each prayer has a prescribed time, a particular number of obligatory units (rak'ahs) and a set method of performance.

Salah is not simply a series of physical movements. It combines recitation from the Qur'an, remembrance of Allah, supplication, bowing and prostration. It teaches discipline, humility and the importance of keeping a regular connection with Allah throughout the day.

Allah says in the Qur'an:

"Indeed, prayer has been decreed upon the believers a decree of specified times."
Surah An-Nisa, 4:103

The five daily prayers are an obligation and should be performed within their prescribed times. This guide explains their timings and the main rulings of Salah according to the Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence, while recognising that some details differ between the recognised schools.

The Five Daily Prayers and Their Times

The five obligatory prayers are performed at different points throughout the day and night. Their actual clock times change according to the location, season and position of the sun.

Prayer	Obligatory Rak'ahs	Time
Fajr	2	From true dawn until sunrise
Dhuhr	4	After the sun passes its zenith until the beginning of Asr
Asr	4	From the beginning of Asr until sunset
Maghrib	3	Immediately after sunset until the disappearance of the relevant twilight
Isha	4	After the disappearance of twilight until true dawn

1. Fajr - The Dawn Prayer

Fajr is the first of the five daily prayers. Its time begins with the appearance of true dawn (Subh Sadiq), when a horizontal band of light spreads across the eastern horizon.

The time for Fajr continues until sunrise. The obligatory Fajr prayer consists of two rak'ahs, and it is preceded by two Sunnah Mu'akkadah rak'ahs.

Fajr must be completed before the sun begins to rise.

2. Dhuhr - The Midday Prayer

Dhuhr is the midday prayer. Its time begins after the sun has passed its highest point in the sky, known as Zawal.

According to the relied-upon Hanafi position of Imam Abu Hanifah, Dhuhr time continues until the shadow of an object, excluding its shadow at midday, reaches twice the object's height. At that point, the time for Asr begins.

The obligatory Dhuhr prayer consists of four rak'ahs.

3. Asr - The Afternoon Prayer

Asr is the afternoon prayer. According to the relied-upon Hanafi position of Imam Abu Hanifah, its time begins when the shadow of an object, in addition to its shadow at midday, becomes twice the height of the object.

There is a recognised difference of opinion within the Hanafi school: Imam Abu Yusuf and Imam Muhammad held that Asr begins when the additional shadow reaches the object's own height. This is also the position followed by the other three major Sunni schools.

Asr time continues until sunset. However, Muslims should not deliberately delay the prayer until the sun becomes weak and its light turns yellow.

The obligatory Asr prayer consists of four rak'ahs.

4. Maghrib - The Sunset Prayer

Maghrib begins immediately after the sun has completely set below the horizon.

According to the Hanafi school, its time continues until the disappearance of the white twilight (Shafaq Abyad). Muslims are encouraged to perform Maghrib without unnecessary delay after sunset.

The obligatory Maghrib prayer consists of three rak'ahs.

5. Isha  The Night Prayer

Isha begins after the disappearance of the white twilight, according to the Hanafi school. Its time continues until the appearance of true dawn, when the time for Fajr begins.

The obligatory Isha prayer consists of four rak'ahs. The Hanafi school also regards Witr prayer as Wajib, and it is performed after Isha within its prescribed time.

Muslims should make an effort to perform Isha at an appropriate time and avoid unnecessary delay.

Prayer Timetables and Local Times

Prayer times vary throughout the year. For example, Fajr and Isha may be considerably earlier or later depending on the season and geographical location.

In the United Kingdom, different prayer timetables may use different calculation methods, particularly for Fajr and Isha during the long summer days. Muslims should follow a reliable timetable prepared for their locality and consult knowledgeable local scholars where there is uncertainty.

It is also important to distinguish between the beginning of a prayer's prescribed time and the congregation (Jama'ah) time at a mosque. A mosque may schedule its congregation later than the time at which the prayer first becomes valid.

The five daily prayers should be observed consistently and within their prescribed times.

Conditions Necessary for Salah

Before performing Salah, a Muslim must ensure that the conditions for the validity of prayer are fulfilled. According to the Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence, these include the following six requirements.

1. Purification from Ritual Impurity (Taharah)

A person must be in a state of ritual purity before performing Salah.

For minor ritual impurity, Wudu (ablution) must be performed. Where major ritual impurity applies, Ghusl (the full ritual bath) is required.

If water is unavailable, or using it would cause harm, Tayammum (dry purification) may be performed when its conditions are met.

A person should not begin Salah without the required purification.

Women who are experiencing menstruation (Hayd) or postnatal bleeding (Nifas) do not perform Salah during these periods. They are not required to make up the prayers missed during menstruation or postnatal bleeding.

2. Cleanliness of the Body, Clothing and Place of Prayer

The body, clothing and place used for Salah must be free from physical impurities (Najasah) beyond the amounts excused under Islamic law.

This means that a Muslim should ensure that:

• The body is clean from physical impurities.

• The clothing worn during prayer is free from unexcused impurities.

• The area used for standing and prostration is sufficiently clean.

If an impurity is present, it should be removed before prayer where possible. Islamic law recognises certain allowances and excused circumstances, so not every trace of impurity automatically invalidates Salah.

A prayer mat is not essential, provided the place of prayer is clean.

3. Covering the Required Parts of the Body (Satr al-Awrah)

The parts of the body that must be covered during Salah are known as the Awrah. These requirements apply whether a person is praying alone or in congregation.

For men:

The Awrah extends from below the navel to and including the knees, according to the Hanafi school. The navel itself is not included, but the knees must be covered.

For women:

According to the Hanafi school, a woman's body must be covered during Salah, apart from her face and hands. There is a recognised difference of opinion within Hanafi scholarship concerning the feet. Covering the feet is a prudent approach.

Clothing should be sufficiently loose and opaque so that the required parts of the body are properly covered.

4. Performing Salah Within Its Prescribed Time

Every obligatory prayer has a specific time in which it must be performed.

A prayer performed before its prescribed time has entered is not valid as that obligatory prayer. Muslims should therefore check a reliable local prayer timetable and ensure that the time has begun before starting Salah.

The five obligatory prayers are:

• Fajr – dawn prayer.

• Dhuhr – midday prayer.

• Asr – afternoon prayer.

• Maghrib – sunset prayer.

• Isha – night prayer.

Each prayer must be performed within its prescribed time, subject to the relevant rules of Islamic jurisprudence.

5. Facing the Qiblah (Istiqbal al-Qiblah)

During obligatory Salah, a person must face towards the Ka'bah in Makkah, known as the Qiblah.

Muslims living outside Makkah should determine the correct direction using a reliable compass, prayer application, local mosque or other trustworthy means.

A person should make a reasonable effort to establish the direction before praying. Where someone is genuinely unable to determine the Qiblah, Islamic law provides guidance for dealing with that situation.

There are also recognised exceptions, including certain circumstances involving fear, inability or voluntary prayers performed while travelling.

6. Making the Intention (Niyyah)

Intention is an essential requirement of Salah. It means knowing in the heart which prayer one intends to perform.

For example, a person should intend to perform the obligatory Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib or Isha prayer, as appropriate.

The intention does not have to be spoken aloud. Its place is the heart, and it should be present when beginning the prayer.

A person should approach Salah with sincerity and the intention of worshipping Allah alone.

Beginning the Prayer

After ensuring that the necessary conditions have been fulfilled, the person begins Salah by saying the opening Takbir:

Allahu Akbar (الله أكبر)

This is known as Takbir al-Tahrimah. It marks the beginning of the formal prayer, after which the person follows the prescribed actions and recitations of Salah.

The conditions described above are fundamental to the validity of prayer. Muslims should learn them carefully and seek reliable guidance when uncertain about a particular ruling.

Fardh and Wajib Acts of Salah

In the Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence, the actions and requirements of Salah are classified according to their legal importance. Two important categories are Fardh (obligatory) and Wajib (necessary).

Understanding the difference is important because omitting a Fardh act has a different consequence from omitting a Wajib act.

What Is Fardh in Salah?

Fardh refers to an obligatory requirement established by definitive evidence. The essential Fardh acts must be fulfilled for the prayer to be valid.

There are six commonly listed Fardh acts of Salah in the Hanafi school:

1. Takbir al-Tahrimah (Opening Takbir)

This is the opening declaration of the prayer, made by saying:

Allahu Akbar (الله أكبر)

It marks the beginning of Salah and must be pronounced correctly.

2. Qiyam (Standing)

Standing is obligatory in an obligatory prayer for a person who is physically able to stand.

A person who is unable to stand because of illness, injury or another valid reason may pray sitting, according to the relevant rules.

3. Qira'ah (Recitation of the Qur'an)

Recitation of the Qur'an is an essential part of Salah.

According to Imam Abu Hanifah, the minimum Fard requirement is to recite at least one verse in two rak'ahs of an obligatory prayer. In Witr, Sunnah and Nafl prayers, recitation is required in every rak'ah.

Imam Abu Yusuf and Imam Muhammad held that the minimum is three short verses or one long verse equivalent to them.

These are the minimum requirements for validity, not the standard a Muslim should normally aim for. The additional Wajib requirements of recitation are explained below.

4. Ruku (Bowing)

Ruku is the act of bowing during Salah. The worshipper bends forward, placing the hands on the knees, while maintaining the prescribed position.

5. Sujood (Prostration)

Sujood means prostrating before Allah. Two prostrations are required in every rak'ah.

The prostration must be performed correctly, with the required parts of the body placed on the ground according to the rules of Salah.

6. Qa'dah Akhirah (Final Sitting)

This is the final sitting of the prayer. A person must remain seated for at least the time required to recite the Tashahhud.

The final sitting itself is Fardh, while reciting the Tashahhud is Wajib.

What Is Wajib in Salah?

Wajib refers to an act that is necessary in Salah according to the Hanafi school. It must be observed, and deliberately omitting it is sinful and requires the prayer to be repeated.

The following are important Wajib acts:

1. Reciting Surah al-Fatihah

Surah al-Fatihah must be recited in the first two rak'ahs of Fard prayers and in every rak'ah of Witr, Sunnah and Nafl prayers.

In the third and fourth rak'ahs of an obligatory four-rak'ah prayer, reciting Surah al-Fatihah is Sunnah rather than Wajib according to the Hanafi school.

2. Adding a Surah or Further Qur'anic Verses

After Surah al-Fatihah, a further passage from the Qur'an must be recited in the first two rak'ahs of Fard prayers and in every rak'ah of Witr, Sunnah and Nafl prayers.

The additional recitation should consist of a short Surah, three short verses or one long verse equivalent in length to three short verses.

3. Reciting Surah al-Fatihah Before the Additional Recitation

Surah al-Fatihah must be recited before the additional Surah or verses in the rak'ahs where this additional recitation is required.

4. Performing the Acts of Salah in Their Correct Order

The essential actions must be performed in their prescribed sequence. For example, recitation takes place before Ruku, followed by standing upright, prostration and the remaining actions of the prayer.

5. Maintaining Composure in the Prayer (Ta'dil al-Arkan)

Each position of Salah must be performed with composure rather than hurriedly.

The worshipper should allow the body to settle in the standing position after Ruku, between the two prostrations, and during Ruku and Sujood.

6. Standing Upright After Ruku (Qawmah)

After rising from Ruku, the worshipper must stand upright before proceeding to Sujood.

7. Sitting Between the Two Prostrations (Jalsah)

After the first prostration, the worshipper must sit before performing the second prostration.

8. The First Sitting (Qa'dah Ula)

In a three- or four-rak'ah prayer, sitting after the second rak'ah is Wajib.

This sitting is followed by the recitation of Tashahhud before standing for the remaining rak'ahs.

9. Reciting the Tashahhud

The Tashahhud must be recited in the required sitting positions, including the first sitting and the final sitting.

10. Ending the Prayer with Salam

The prayer must be concluded with the prescribed Salam. The minimum required wording includes saying:

As-salamu 'alaykum (السلام عليكم)

11. Du'a al-Qunoot in Witr

Reciting Du'a al-Qunoot is Wajib in the Witr prayer according to the Hanafi school.

12. The Additional Takbirs of Eid Prayer

The additional Takbirs prescribed in the Eid prayers are Wajib according to the Hanafi school.

13. The Imam's Audible and Silent Recitation

In congregational prayer, the Imam must observe the prescribed method of audible and silent recitation.

For example, the Imam recites audibly in Fajr, the first two rak'ahs of Maghrib and Isha, and the Friday prayer. Dhuhr and Asr are performed with silent recitation.

What Happens If a Fardh or Wajib Act Is Omitted?

The consequences depend on which requirement has been missed and whether it was omitted deliberately or forgetfully.

If a Fardh act is omitted:

The prayer is invalid if an essential Fardh requirement is not fulfilled. The prayer must be performed again.

If a Wajib act is omitted forgetfully:

Sajdah al-Sahw (the prostration of forgetfulness) is generally required to compensate for an accidentally omitted Wajib act, provided the circumstances permit correction in this way.

If a Wajib act is deliberately omitted:

Deliberately leaving a Wajib act is sinful, and the prayer must be repeated.

The detailed rules depend on the particular act and the circumstances. Not every mistake in Salah is corrected in the same way.

Summary

Fardh and Wajib requirements are both essential to performing Salah correctly according to the Hanafi school.

A Muslim should learn the requirements of prayer, perform each action carefully and avoid rushing through the recitations or movements. If a mistake occurs, the appropriate ruling should be learned rather than assuming that every mistake invalidates the prayer or can automatically be corrected by Sajdah al-Sahw.

Method of Performing Salah

Salah is performed through a prescribed sequence of standing, recitation, bowing, prostration and sitting. The following guide explains the traditional method according to the Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence.

The examples below describe an individual performing Salah. Prayer in congregation has additional rules, particularly concerning the relationship between the Imam and those following him.

Before Beginning Salah

Before starting the prayer, ensure that:

• The prescribed prayer time has begun.

• You have performed Wudu or the required purification.

• Your body, clothing and place of prayer are sufficiently clean.

• The required parts of your body are covered.

• You are facing the Qiblah.

• You have the intention in your heart to perform the particular prayer.

1. Making the Intention (Niyyah)

Stand facing the Qiblah and make the intention in your heart to perform the particular Salah.

For example, if performing Fajr, intend to offer the two obligatory rak'ahs of Fajr for the sake of Allah.

The intention does not have to be spoken aloud. It is sufficient to know in your heart which prayer you are performing.

2. Beginning the Prayer (Takbir al-Tahrimah)

Raise both hands and say:

Allahu Akbar (الله أكبر)

This is the opening Takbir and marks the beginning of Salah.

According to the traditional Hanafi method:

For men: Raise the hands towards the earlobes, with the palms facing the Qiblah.

For women: Raise the hands towards the shoulders, keeping them within the traditional prescribed manner of covering.

After the opening Takbir, fold the hands.

For men: Place the right hand over the left below the navel.

For women: Place the hands over the chest, with the right hand over the left.

These are the traditional Hanafi positions. Other schools of Islamic jurisprudence follow different practices.

3. Recitation While Standing (Qiyam)

After folding the hands, recite the opening supplication known as Thana:

Subhanaka Allahumma wa bihamdika, wa tabarakasmuka, wa ta'ala jadduka, wa la ilaha ghayruk.

Then recite:

A'udhu billahi minash-shaytanir-rajim.

Follow this with:

Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Rahim.

Next, recite Surah al-Fatihah.

At the end of Surah al-Fatihah, say Ameen quietly.

In the first two rak'ahs of an obligatory prayer, and in every rak'ah of Sunnah, Nafl and Witr prayers, recite an additional Surah or the required amount of Qur'anic verses after Surah al-Fatihah.

4. Bowing (Ruku)

After completing the recitation, say:

Allahu Akbar

Then bow into Ruku.

For men: Keep the back relatively straight, hold the knees with the hands and keep the fingers apart. The elbows are kept away from the sides.

For women: Adopt the more compact posture traditionally taught in Hanafi jurisprudence, keeping the limbs closer to the body and the fingers together.

While bowing, recite at least three times:

Subhana Rabbiyal-Adheem.

This means: Glory be to my Lord, the Most Great.

Remain composed in Ruku rather than rushing into the next position.

5. Standing Upright After Ruku (Qawmah)

Rise from Ruku while saying:

Sami' Allahu liman hamidah.

This means: Allah hears the one who praises Him.

Once standing upright, say:

Rabbana lakal hamd.

This means: Our Lord, all praise belongs to You.

Stand upright and allow the body to settle before proceeding to prostration.

6. First Prostration (Sujood)

Say:

Allahu Akbar

Then proceed into Sujood.

The forehead and nose should be placed on the ground, together with the hands, knees and toes, according to the requirements of prostration.

For men: The traditional Hanafi method is to keep the abdomen away from the thighs and the arms away from the sides, without resting the forearms on the ground.

For women: The traditional Hanafi method is more compact, with the limbs kept closer to the body and the forearms placed on the ground.

While in Sujood, recite at least three times:

Subhana Rabbiyal-A'la.

This means: Glory be to my Lord, the Most High.

Prostration is an important expression of humility and submission to Allah.

7. Sitting Between the Two Prostrations (Jalsah)

Say:

Allahu Akbar

Rise from the first prostration and sit upright.

In the traditional Hanafi method:

For men: Sit on the left foot, with the right foot upright and its toes facing towards the Qiblah.

For women: Sit with both legs placed towards the right side of the body.

Remain still before proceeding to the second prostration.

8. Second Prostration

Say:

Allahu Akbar

Perform the second Sujood in the same manner as the first.

Recite at least three times:

Subhana Rabbiyal-A'la.

This completes the first rak'ah.

9. The Second Rak'ah

Say:

Allahu Akbar

Rise from Sujood and stand for the second rak'ah.

Recite:

1. Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Rahim.

2. Surah al-Fatihah.

3. A further Surah or the required amount of Qur'anic verses.

Then repeat the same sequence:

• Ruku.

• Standing upright after Ruku.

• First Sujood.

• Sitting between the two prostrations.

• Second Sujood.

This completes the second rak'ah.

10. The Sitting and Tashahhud

After the second prostration of the second rak'ah, sit and recite At-Tahiyyat:

At-tahiyyatu lillahi was-salawatu wat-tayyibat. As-salamu 'alayka ayyuhan-nabiyyu wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh. As-salamu 'alayna wa 'ala ibadillahis-salihin. Ash-hadu an la ilaha illallah wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan abduhu wa rasuluh.

This is known as Tashahhud.

If performing a two-rak'ah prayer, continue by reciting:

• Durood Ibrahim.

• A suitable supplication (Du'a).

Then conclude the prayer with Salam.

If performing a three- or four-rak'ah prayer, after completing Tashahhud, stand for the remaining rak'ahs.

11. Completing Three- and Four-Rak'ah Prayers

Some obligatory prayers contain three or four rak'ahs.

The number of obligatory rak'ahs is:

• Fajr: Two.

• Dhuhr: Four.

• Asr: Four.

• Maghrib: Three.

• Isha: Four.

In a three- or four-rak'ah obligatory prayer, after the second rak'ah, sit and recite Tashahhud. Then stand for the remaining rak'ahs.

In the third and fourth rak'ahs of an obligatory prayer, the Hanafi method is to recite Surah al-Fatihah. The additional Surah is not normally recited in these rak'ahs.

In the final sitting, recite:

1. At-Tahiyyat.

2. Durood Ibrahim.

3. A suitable supplication (Du'a).

12. Concluding the Prayer (Salam)

To finish Salah, turn the head towards the right and say:

As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullah.

Then turn the head towards the left and repeat:

As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullah.

This concludes the prayer.

Important Differences Between Men's and Women's Prayer in the Hanafi School

The traditional Hanafi method describes certain differences in posture between men and women.

These include:

• The height to which the hands are raised at the opening Takbir.

• The position of the hands when standing.

• The positioning of the limbs during Ruku and Sujood.

• The sitting posture between prostrations and in the final sitting.

These descriptions represent the traditional Hanafi position. Other recognised schools and scholars differ on some of these details. Muslims should understand that differences in these practices do not automatically mean that another person's prayer is invalid.

Performing Salah Correctly

A Muslim should perform Salah calmly and with concentration, ensuring that each position is completed properly before moving to the next.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

"Pray as you have seen me praying."

Sahih al-Bukhari, 631

This hadith emphasises the importance of learning the correct method of prayer from the teachings and practice of the Prophet (ﷺ).

Muslims should make an effort to learn the recitations, understand the meanings of what they say and observe the requirements of Salah consistently.

For further explanations of the obligatory acts, necessary acts, mistakes in prayer and the rules of Sajdah al-Sahw, refer to the relevant sections of this guide.

Sajdah al-Sahw (Prostration of Forgetfulness)

Sajdah al-Sahw (سجود السهو) means the prostration performed to compensate for certain mistakes made during Salah.

According to the Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence, Sajdah al-Sahw becomes Wajib in particular circumstances when a person unintentionally omits, delays, changes or repeats a required act of prayer.

It is important to understand that not every mistake requires Sajdah al-Sahw. The ruling depends on the nature of the mistake and whether it was made deliberately or forgetfully.

When Is Sajdah al-Sahw Required?

In the Hanafi school, Sajdah al-Sahw is generally required when a Wajib act of Salah is accidentally omitted or when certain required actions are performed incorrectly.

Examples include:

1. Forgetting to Recite Surah al-Fatihah

If a person forgets to recite Surah al-Fatihah in a rak'ah where its recitation is Wajib, Sajdah al-Sahw is required.

2. Forgetting the Additional Surah or Qur'anic Verses

If a person forgets to recite an additional Surah or the required amount of Qur'anic verses after Surah al-Fatihah in a rak'ah where this is Wajib, Sajdah al-Sahw is required.

3. Forgetting the First Sitting

If a person forgets to sit after the second rak'ah in a three- or four-rak'ah prayer and stands up for the next rak'ah, the ruling depends on how far they have progressed in standing. If they have stood fully, they should continue the prayer and perform Sajdah al-Sahw at the end.

4. Forgetting to Recite Tashahhud

If a person forgets to recite Tashahhud in a sitting position where it is Wajib, Sajdah al-Sahw is required.

5. Forgetting Du'a al-Qunoot in Witr

If a person forgets to recite Du'a al-Qunoot in the Witr prayer, Sajdah al-Sahw is required.

6. Making a Mistake in Audible or Silent Recitation

If an Imam mistakenly recites aloud in a prayer where recitation should be silent, or recites silently in a prayer where it should be audible, Sajdah al-Sahw may be required according to the relevant Hanafi rules.

These examples are not an exhaustive list. Other mistakes, including unnecessarily delaying or repeating certain required acts, may also require Sajdah al-Sahw.

How to Perform Sajdah al-Sahw

According to the commonly taught Hanafi method, Sajdah al-Sahw is performed towards the end of the prayer as follows:

Step 1: Complete the Final Sitting

After completing the final rak'ah, sit and recite At-Tahiyyat:

At-tahiyyatu lillahi was-salawatu wat-tayyibat. As-salamu 'alayka ayyuhan-nabiyyu wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh. As-salamu 'alayna wa 'ala ibadillahis-salihin. Ash-hadu an la ilaha illallah wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan abduhu wa rasuluh.

Step 2: Perform One Salam to the Right

After reciting At-Tahiyyat, turn your head towards the right and say:

As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullah.

Step 3: Perform Two Prostrations

Say Allahu Akbar and perform two prostrations in the normal manner of Sujood.

Recite:

Subhana Rabbiyal-A'la

at least three times in each prostration.

Step 4: Sit Again and Complete the Recitations

After the two prostrations, sit and recite:

• At-Tahiyyat.

• Durood Ibrahim.

• A suitable supplication (Du'a).

Step 5: Complete the Prayer

Conclude the prayer by turning the head towards the right and then the left, saying:

As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullah.

The prayer is now complete.

What If a Wajib Act Is Deliberately Omitted?

If a Wajib act is deliberately omitted, Sajdah al-Sahw does not make up for the omission. The person must repent and repeat the prayer.

If a Wajib act is accidentally omitted and Sajdah al-Sahw is required but is not performed, the prayer must generally be repeated.

What If a Fardh Act Is Missed?

Sajdah al-Sahw cannot replace a Fardh act of Salah.

If an essential Fardh act is missed, the prayer cannot simply be corrected by performing two additional prostrations. The appropriate correction depends on the act missed and when the mistake is remembered. In some circumstances the missing act can still be completed; otherwise, the prayer must be repeated.

Sajdah al-Sahw in Congregational Prayer

When praying behind an Imam, the congregation follows the Imam in performing Sajdah al-Sahw if it becomes necessary.

A person following an Imam should not independently perform a separate Sajdah al-Sahw for a mistake made while following the Imam. The detailed rulings differ according to whether the person is an Imam, a follower or someone who joined the congregation late.

Summary

Sajdah al-Sahw is an important provision in Islamic prayer that addresses certain mistakes made unintentionally.

Muslims should learn the obligatory and necessary requirements of Salah so that they can perform their prayers correctly. If a mistake occurs, they should understand whether Sajdah al-Sahw is required or whether another correction is necessary.

The purpose is to perform Salah with care, concentration and sincerity, while following the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the rulings of the recognised school of Islamic jurisprudence.

Things That Invalidate Salah (Hanafi Guide)

Certain actions and circumstances invalidate Salah. If any of these occur, the prayer is no longer valid and must generally be performed again.

The following are important examples according to the Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence.

1. Losing Wudu

If a person's Wudu breaks during Salah, the prayer is invalidated. This includes passing wind, using the toilet, or any other action that invalidates Wudu.

If someone is merely unsure whether their Wudu has broken, without being certain, they should not abandon their prayer because of doubt alone.

2. Speaking During Salah

Speaking words that are not part of Salah invalidates the prayer, whether done deliberately or forgetfully.

Examples include:

• Talking to another person.

• Replying to someone's greeting.

• Answering a question.

• Saying ordinary words unrelated to the prayer.

A person should avoid speaking until the prayer has been completed.

3. Eating or Drinking

Eating or drinking during Salah invalidates the prayer, even if the amount is small.

A person should ensure that their mouth is free from food before beginning Salah.

4. Laughing During Salah

According to Hanafi fiqh, there are different rulings concerning laughter:

• Smiling without making a sound: Does not invalidate Salah.

• Laughing audibly to oneself: Invalidates Salah.

• Loud laughter (Qahqahah): Invalidates both Salah and Wudu, provided the person is an awake adult and the prayer includes Ruku and Sujood.

If loud laughter occurs, the person must renew their Wudu and repeat the prayer.

5. Excessive Movement

Excessive movement that is unrelated to the actions of Salah can invalidate the prayer.

Examples include:

• Walking around without a valid reason.

• Repeatedly moving or turning the body in a way that disrupts the prayer.

• Performing actions so substantial that an observer would reasonably think the person was no longer praying.

Minor movements, such as briefly adjusting clothing or scratching, do not automatically invalidate Salah.

6. Turning Away From the Qiblah

Turning the chest away from the direction of the Qiblah invalidates Salah.

A person should maintain their direction towards the Ka'bah throughout the prayer, unless there is a recognised excuse.

7. Exposing the Awrah

Covering the Awrah is a condition for the validity of Salah.

According to Hanafi fiqh, if one-quarter or more of a particular part of the Awrah becomes exposed for the duration of an essential element of the prayer, the Salah is invalidated.

If clothing accidentally shifts, the person should cover the exposed area immediately. The precise ruling depends on the amount exposed and how long it remains uncovered.

8. Impurity on the Body, Clothing or Place of Prayer

The body, clothing and place of prayer must be free from an amount of impurity that would prevent the validity of Salah according to Islamic law.

If an amount of impurity greater than the excused limit is present and remains during the prayer, the prayer is invalid.

A Muslim should therefore check that their clothing and place of prayer are clean before beginning Salah.

9. Omitting an Essential Part of Salah

If a person deliberately or forgetfully omits a Fard (obligatory essential) part of Salah and does not perform it correctly, the prayer is invalid

Makrooh Actions in Salah (Disliked Actions in Prayer)

Salah should be performed with humility, concentration and respect. A Muslim should avoid actions that distract from the remembrance of Allah or interfere with the proper performance of prayer.

In Hanafi fiqh, disliked actions are generally divided into two categories:

• Makrooh Tahrimi: Prohibitively disliked. Deliberately performing such an action is sinful. A prayer performed with a Makrooh Tahrimi action may need to be repeated.

• Makrooh Tanzihi: Mildly disliked. Such actions should be avoided, although they are not at the same level as Makrooh Tahrimi.

The following are examples of actions that should be avoided during Salah.

1. Unnecessary Movement and Fidgeting

Repeatedly playing with clothing, fingers, hair or other parts of the body is disliked.

Examples include:

• Adjusting clothing without need.

• Playing with a ring or other object.

• Repeatedly scratching or touching the face.

• Moving the hands or feet unnecessarily.

• Cracking the fingers.

Repeated unnecessary fidgeting is generally considered Makrooh Tahrimi in Hanafi fiqh. Excessive movement may invalidate the prayer altogether.

2. Looking Around

A person should keep their attention towards the place of Sajdah and avoid looking around.

Turning the face to the left or right without a valid reason is disliked. Looking upwards towards the sky during Salah is also prohibited in the Prophetic teachings.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ warned against people raising their eyes towards the sky during prayer. (Sahih al-Bukhari)

3. Closing the Eyes Without a Reason

Closing the eyes during Salah without a valid reason is generally disliked.

However, if closing the eyes helps someone avoid a distraction and concentrate better, some Hanafi scholars permit it in that circumstance.

4. Yawning

A person should try to suppress yawning during Salah as much as possible.

If unable to prevent it, they should cover their mouth with their hand and avoid making unnecessary sounds.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ instructed Muslims to restrain yawning as much as possible. (Sahih al-Bukhari)

5. Praying While Needing the Toilet

If someone urgently needs to relieve themselves, they should attend to that need before beginning Salah, provided there is sufficient time.

Praying while struggling to control the need can distract the person and affect their concentration.

6. Praying With Food Present When It Distracts

If food is ready and a person strongly desires to eat, they should eat first, provided there is sufficient time to perform the prayer within its prescribed time.

This follows the Prophetic guidance concerning prayer when food has been served and a person is distracted by it.

7. Standing With Hands on the Hips

Placing the hands on the hips during Salah is disliked and should be avoided.

The hands should remain in their prescribed positions throughout the prayer.

8. Rolling Up Clothing

A person should avoid rolling up their sleeves or gathering their clothing unnecessarily before or during Salah.

They should perform the prayer in a normal and appropriate manner of dress.

9. Praying in Distracting Clothing or Facing Distracting Images

A person should avoid clothing with pictures of animate beings and should avoid praying directly towards distracting images.

The prayer area should be kept simple and free from unnecessary distractions.

10. Rushing Through Salah

A person should perform each position of Salah calmly and allow the body to become still before moving to the next position.

Rushing through Ruku, Sujood or the standing and sitting positions is contrary to the proper performance of Salah.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ instructed a man who had prayed hastily to return and perform his prayer again, explaining that he had not prayed correctly. (Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim)

Important Reminder

Muslims should strive to perform Salah with humility, tranquillity and concentration.

Not every disliked action invalidates Salah. However, deliberately performing a prohibitively disliked action is sinful, and certain actions may require the prayer to be repeated. Excessive movement, for example, can invalidate the prayer.

A person should avoid unnecessary movements and give their full attention to worshipping Allah.

May Allah grant us concentration and sincerity in our prayers and accept our Salah. Ameen.

Matters Which Make It Permissible or Necessary to Break Salah

A Muslim should not deliberately interrupt Salah without a valid reason. However, Islam recognises that emergencies and genuine needs may arise during prayer.

According to Hanafi fiqh, breaking Salah may be permissible or even necessary, depending on the circumstances.

1. Saving a Life or Preventing Serious Injury

It is necessary to break Salah if doing so is required to save someone's life or prevent serious harm.

Examples include:

• A child is in danger of falling or being injured.

• Someone is at risk of drowning.

• A person is trapped in a fire.

• Someone is being attacked or is calling urgently for help.

• A person is in immediate danger and the person praying is able to assist.

In such circumstances, saving the person takes priority. The prayer should be performed again afterwards.

2. Preventing Significant Damage or Loss of Property

It is permissible to break Salah if there is a genuine fear of significant damage or loss of property that cannot reasonably be prevented without interrupting the prayer.

For example:

• Food or something important is about to burn and cause substantial damage.

• A fire or other hazard threatens the home.

• Property is at serious risk of being stolen or damaged.

A minor inconvenience or small potential loss would not normally justify interrupting an obligatory prayer.

3. Needing to Use the Toilet

If a person becomes desperate to urinate or pass stool during Salah, they may interrupt the prayer to attend to their need.

It is better to relieve oneself, perform Wudu again if necessary, and then perform the prayer with concentration.

A person should avoid beginning Salah when they already have an urgent need to use the toilet.

4. When Parents Call During Salah

The ruling depends on the type of prayer and the reason for the call.

During Fardh Salah:

A person should not normally interrupt an obligatory prayer simply because a parent calls them. However, if the parent is calling for genuine assistance or is in danger, the prayer should be interrupted to help them.

During Sunnah or Nafl Salah:

According to Hanafi fiqh, if a parent calls and does not know that their child is praying, the child should respond by interrupting the voluntary prayer. If the parent knows that the child is praying, there is generally no need to interrupt the prayer merely to answer the call.

If the parent needs urgent help, their need must be attended to regardless of whether the person is performing Fardh, Sunnah or Nafl Salah.

Important: Witr is Wajib in Hanafi fiqh and should not be treated as an ordinary voluntary prayer. It should not normally be interrupted unless there is a serious and valid reason.

5. When Someone Calls for Urgent Assistance

If someone calls for help because they are in danger or facing a serious emergency, it is necessary to interrupt Salah if doing so is required to provide assistance.

This applies whether the person calling is a family member, neighbour or someone else.

If there is no genuine emergency, the person should complete their prayer and respond afterwards.

Important Reminder

When a person interrupts Salah for a valid reason, they must perform the prayer again from the beginning once the emergency or need has been dealt with.

A Muslim should not interrupt an obligatory prayer for an ordinary matter that can wait until the prayer has been completed.

May Allah guide us to fulfil our prayers correctly, recognise our responsibilities towards others and act wisely in times of need. Ameen.

Witr Salah (The Odd-Numbered Prayer)

Witr Salah is an important prayer performed after the obligatory Isha prayer. According to the Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence, Witr is Wajib (necessary), and it should not be deliberately neglected.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged Muslims to perform Witr and taught its importance.

1. How Many Rak'ahs Are There in Witr?

According to the Hanafi school, Witr consists of three Rak'ahs performed together with one Salam at the end.

It is not performed as two Rak'ahs followed by Salam and then a separate single Rak'ah.

Witr is similar to Maghrib Salah in its general structure, although it has an additional supplication called Dua-e-Qunoot in the third Rak'ah.

2. When Should Witr Be Performed?

Witr is performed after the obligatory Isha prayer and before the beginning of Fajr time.

A person who is confident of waking up for Tahajjud may delay Witr until later in the night. However, someone who is not confident of waking up should perform Witr before going to sleep.

Witr must be completed before true dawn begins.

3. The Method of Performing Witr

According to Hanafi fiqh, Witr is performed as follows:

First Rak'ah

1. Make the intention in the heart to perform three Rak'ahs of Witr.

2. Raise both hands and say Allahu Akbar to begin the prayer.

3. Fold the hands and recite Thana (Subhanakallahumma).

4. Recite Ta'awwudh (A'udhu billahi minash-shaytanir-rajim) and Bismillah.

5. Recite Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by another Surah or verses from the Qur'an.

6. Complete Ruku, standing after Ruku and both Sajdahs as in normal Salah.

Second Rak'ah

1. Stand for the second Rak'ah.

2. Recite Bismillah, Surah Al-Fatihah and another Surah or verses from the Qur'an.

3. Complete Ruku and both Sajdahs.

4. After the second Sajdah, sit and recite At-Tahiyyat (Tashahhud).

5. Do not recite Durood or make Salam at this sitting. Stand for the third Rak'ah.

Third Rak'ah

1. Recite Bismillah, Surah Al-Fatihah and another Surah or verses from the Qur'an.

2. After completing the recitation, say Allahu Akbar whilst raising both hands to the ears, then fold the hands again.

3. Recite Dua-e-Qunoot whilst standing.

4. After Dua-e-Qunoot, say Allahu Akbar and perform Ruku.

5. Complete the remaining prayer as normal, including both Sajdahs.

6. Sit in the final sitting and recite At-Tahiyyat, Durood Ibrahim and a suitable Du'a.

7. End the prayer with Salam to the right and then to the left.

4. Dua-e-Qunoot

Dua-e-Qunoot is recited in the third Rak'ah of Witr, after the Qur'anic recitation and before Ruku.

The commonly recited Hanafi Dua-e-Qunoot is:

Arabic:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّا نَسْتَعِينُكَ وَنَسْتَغْفِرُكَ وَنُؤْمِنُ بِكَ وَنَتَوَكَّلُ عَلَيْكَ وَنُثْنِي عَلَيْكَ الْخَيْرَ وَنَشْكُرُكَ وَلَا نَكْفُرُكَ وَنَخْلَعُ وَنَتْرُكُ مَنْ يَفْجُرُكَ

اللَّهُمَّ إِيَّاكَ نَعْبُدُ وَلَكَ نُصَلِّي وَنَسْجُدُ وَإِلَيْكَ نَسْعَى وَنَحْفِدُ وَنَرْجُو رَحْمَتَكَ وَنَخْشَى عَذَابَكَ إِنَّ عَذَابَكَ بِالْكُفَّارِ مُلْحِقٌ

Transliteration:

Allahumma inna nasta'eenuka wa nastaghfiruka wa nu'minu bika wa natawakkalu 'alayka wa nuthni 'alaykal-khayra wa nashkuruka wa la nakfuruka wa nakhla'u wa natruku man yafjuruk.

Allahumma iyyaka na'budu wa laka nusalli wa nasjudu wa ilayka nas'a wa nahfidu wa narju rahmataka wa nakhsha 'adhabaka inna 'adhabaka bil-kuffari mulhiq.

Meaning:

O Allah, we seek Your help and Your forgiveness. We believe in You and place our trust in You. We praise You with all goodness, thank You and do not show ingratitude towards You. We reject and abandon those who disobey You.

O Allah, You alone we worship, to You we pray and prostrate. Towards You we strive and hasten. We hope for Your mercy and fear Your punishment. Indeed, Your punishment will reach the disbelievers.

5. What If Someone Forgets Dua-e-Qunoot?

According to Hanafi fiqh, reciting Qunoot in Witr is Wajib.

If someone forgets Dua-e-Qunoot and remembers before going into Ruku, they should recite it before proceeding.

If they have already gone into Ruku, they should not return to the standing position to recite it. They should complete the prayer and perform Sajdah al-Sahw.

If Dua-e-Qunoot is deliberately omitted, the person should repent and repeat the Witr prayer.

6. What If Someone Misses Witr?

According to the Hanafi school, if Witr is missed, it must be made up (Qada).

The missed Witr is made up as three Rak'ahs, using the normal Hanafi method of Witr, including Dua-e-Qunoot.

7. Important Points About Witr

• Witr consists of three Rak'ahs according to the Hanafi school.

• It is Wajib, not merely an ordinary voluntary prayer.

• It is performed after Isha and before Fajr.

• Dua-e-Qunoot is recited in the third Rak'ah before Ruku.

• If Qunoot is forgotten, Sajdah al-Sahw is required.

• If Witr is missed, it must be made up according to Hanafi fiqh.

Note: Other Islamic schools have different rulings concerning the status and method of Witr. This section describes the Hanafi position.

May Allah enable us to establish our prayers, perform Witr regularly and accept our worship. Ameen.

Congregational Prayer (Salah with Jama'ah)

Congregational prayer, known as Salah with Jama'ah, is when Muslims perform Salah together, with one person leading as the Imam and the others following him.

Praying in congregation is an important part of Islamic worship. It encourages unity, brotherhood, discipline and a sense of community among Muslims.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

"Prayer in congregation is twenty-seven times more rewarding than prayer offered alone."

(Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim)

1. The Importance and Ruling of Congregational Prayer

According to the Hanafi school, performing the five daily obligatory prayers in congregation is Sunnah Mu'akkadah for men, and some Hanafi scholars classify it as Wajib. It should not be neglected without a valid excuse.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ strongly emphasised the importance of congregational prayer and encouraged Muslim men to attend the mosque.

Congregational prayer can take place with just two people: one Imam and one follower.

Women may pray behind a male Imam, subject to the appropriate arrangements and conditions. According to the Hanafi school, women are generally encouraged to perform their prayers at home. The rulings concerning women-only congregations are different.

2. Who Should Attend Congregational Prayer?

The emphasis on attending the mosque for the five daily prayers applies particularly to adult Muslim men who are able to attend.

A person should be:

• Muslim.

• Of sound mind.

• An adult, although children should be encouraged to attend and learn.

• Able to attend without a genuine difficulty or valid excuse.

The old distinction concerning free men and enslaved people is not relevant to ordinary modern circumstances.

3. Valid Excuses for Missing Congregational Prayer

There are circumstances in which a person may be excused from attending the mosque and may perform Salah at home.

Examples include:

1. Illness or a physical condition that makes attending the mosque difficult.

2. Severe rain, flooding or deep mud that makes the journey difficult or dangerous.

3. Severe cold, strong winds or other extreme weather conditions.

4. Fear of harm to oneself or one's family.

5. A genuine danger of theft or loss of important property.

6. Caring for a sick person when no one else is available to provide the necessary care.

7. An urgent need to urinate or pass stool.

8. Severe hunger when food is ready and the person is distracted by it.

9. A journey where there is a genuine risk of missing the travelling party or transport.

10. Other serious circumstances that make attending the mosque unreasonable or unsafe.

These are examples rather than an exhaustive list. Whether a particular circumstance qualifies as a valid excuse depends on the situation.

4. Who Is Most Suitable to Be the Imam?

The Imam should be someone who is qualified to lead the prayer and knows the relevant rules of Salah.

According to Hanafi fiqh, the following qualities are important when choosing an Imam:

1. Knowledge of the rules and requirements of Salah.

2. Correct recitation of the Holy Qur'an, including proper pronunciation.

3. Piety and good character.

4. Avoidance of open sinful behaviour.

5. Age and other relevant qualities where candidates are otherwise equally qualified.

A person who knows the rules of prayer and can lead correctly should be preferred over someone chosen merely because he is older or has a better voice.

Where a mosque has an appointed Imam, that Imam generally has priority to lead the congregation.

5. Rules and Responsibilities of the Imam

The Imam has an important responsibility because the congregation follows his prayer.

The following points should be observed:

• The Imam should lead the prayer correctly and calmly.

• He should avoid making the prayer unnecessarily long.

• He should ensure that the congregation can follow his movements.

• He should perform the essential actions of Salah correctly.

• He should not deliberately lead the congregation in a manner that causes confusion or hardship.

It is inappropriate for someone to take over the leadership of a congregation without the permission of the appointed Imam or the relevant authority.

6. How to Stand in Congregational Prayer

The worshippers should stand in straight rows behind the Imam.

The general arrangement is:

• If there is one male follower, he stands to the Imam's right.

• If there are two or more male followers, they stand behind the Imam.

• Additional rows should be formed behind the existing rows.

• Women who attend the congregation stand in separate rows behind the men.

Worshippers should stand close together without leaving unnecessary gaps.

If there is space in an existing row, worshippers should complete that row before beginning another one.

7. How to Follow the Imam

The followers must perform their prayer behind the Imam and follow his movements.

The following rules should be observed:

1. Make the intention in the heart to follow the Imam.

2. Begin the prayer with Takbir al-Tahrimah after the Imam has begun.

3. Follow the Imam in Ruku, Sajdah, standing and sitting.

4. Do not move ahead of the Imam.

5. Do not deliberately delay behind the Imam without a valid reason.

6. Remain in the congregation until the Imam completes the prayer.

According to Hanafi fiqh, a follower does not recite Surah Al-Fatihah or another Surah behind the Imam, whether the Imam is reciting aloud or silently.

8. Which Prayers Does the Imam Recite Aloud?

In the obligatory congregational prayers, the Imam recites aloud in:

• Fajr: Both Rak'ahs.

• Maghrib: The first two Rak'ahs.

• Isha: The first two Rak'ahs.

The Imam recites silently in:

• Dhuhr: All four Rak'ahs.

• Asr: All four Rak'ahs.

• Maghrib: The third Rak'ah.

• Isha: The third and fourth Rak'ahs.

According to Hanafi practice, followers remain silent during the Imam's recitation.

9. Joining the Congregation Late (Masbooq)

A person who joins the congregation after the Imam has already started the prayer is known as a Masbooq.

If someone arrives late, they should join the Imam in whatever position he is in, rather than waiting for the next Rak'ah.

For example:

• If the Imam is standing, join him in the standing position.

• If the Imam is in Ruku, say the opening Takbir while standing and then join him in Ruku.

• If the Imam is in Sajdah, join him in Sajdah.

If a person joins the Imam in Ruku before the Imam rises from it, that Rak'ah is counted for the follower, provided the opening Takbir was performed correctly.

If the person does not catch the Ruku, that Rak'ah is missed and must be completed after the Imam finishes.

A latecomer should remain with the Imam until the Imam completes the prayer. After the Imam gives Salam, the latecomer should stand and complete the missed Rak'ahs.

10. If Someone Misses the Congregation

If someone arrives at the mosque after the congregation has finished, they should not abandon their prayer.

They should perform the obligatory prayer individually.

If another suitable congregation is available, they may join it where appropriate.

If someone has already performed the obligatory prayer alone and subsequently finds a congregation, the Hanafi ruling is that they may repeat Dhuhr or Isha with the congregation, intending the second prayer as Nafl.

They should not repeat Fajr, Asr or Maghrib in this way.

11. If the Congregation Begins While Someone Is Performing Sunnah or Nafl

If someone has already started a Sunnah or Nafl prayer and the obligatory congregation begins, the ruling depends on the prayer being performed.

According to Hanafi guidance:

• If someone is performing the two Sunnah Rak'ahs of Fajr, they should complete them if they can still join the obligatory congregation in time.

• If someone has started a four-Rak'ah Sunnah prayer before Dhuhr, they should follow the relevant Hanafi ruling according to how many Rak'ahs they have completed.

• They should not unnecessarily interrupt an already commenced voluntary prayer.

A person should avoid starting a new Sunnah or Nafl prayer when the obligatory congregation has already begun, subject to the specific exception for the Sunnah of Fajr.

12. Important Reminder

Congregational prayer is a highly emphasised part of Islamic worship. Muslims should make every effort to attend the mosque and perform the five daily obligatory prayers with Jama'ah whenever they are able.

The Imam and followers should perform the prayer with humility, discipline and consideration for one another.

May Allah enable us to establish our Salah, attend the mosques regularly and unite the Muslim Ummah upon goodness. Ameen.

Jumu'ah (Friday Prayer)

Jumu'ah is the congregational prayer performed on Friday in place of the regular Zuhr prayer. It is one of the important obligations of Islam and is compulsory for Muslim men who meet the conditions laid down in Islamic law.

Allah says in the Qur'an:

O you who believe! When the call is made for prayer on Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah and leave trade. That is better for you, if only you knew.

Surah al-Jumu'ah, 62:9

The following explains the conditions for a valid Jumu'ah, the people upon whom it is obligatory, and important rulings concerning the khutbah and prayers.

Conditions for the Validity of Jumu'ah Salah

According to the Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence, the following conditions must be fulfilled for Jumu'ah to be valid:

1. It must be held in a city or large town

Jumu'ah must be established in a city or a sufficiently large and developed town. Classical Hanafi scholars discussed the characteristics of a town, including its established community, streets, markets and facilities that meet the essential needs of its inhabitants.

The application of this condition to particular places can require scholarly judgement. It should not be decided solely by counting the number of shops or by the presence of a particular public building.

2. It must be performed during the time of Zuhr

Jumu'ah must be performed within the prescribed time for Zuhr Salah. If the time for Zuhr has not begun, Jumu'ah cannot be performed.

3. A khutbah must be delivered before the prayer

The Imam must deliver a khutbah before the two obligatory rak'ahs of Jumu'ah. The khutbah is an essential condition of Jumu'ah and cannot simply be replaced by an ordinary lecture after the prayer.

4. The khutbah must be delivered after the time for Zuhr begins

The khutbah must take place within the prescribed time for Jumu'ah and before the prayer. The established Hanafi practice is to deliver the formal khutbah in Arabic. There are detailed Hanafi rulings concerning the use of another language, so it is better not to treat every non-Arabic khutbah as automatically invalid.

5. There must be a congregation

According to the relied-upon Hanafi position, there must be at least three adult, sane Muslim men besides the Imam. This means that at least four qualifying men, including the Imam, are required.

Children and women do not count towards this minimum number.

6. General permission to attend must be given

The place where Jumu'ah is performed must allow people who wish to attend to do so. It should not be a private gathering from which the general public is excluded without a valid reason.

The detailed application of this condition can vary according to circumstances, such as security arrangements and the nature of the premises.

All the necessary conditions must be fulfilled for Jumu'ah to be valid according to the Hanafi school. If there is uncertainty about whether a particular venue meets these requirements, a qualified local Hanafi scholar should be consulted.

Conditions That Make Jumu'ah Fardh on a Person

Jumu'ah is individually obligatory (Fardh) upon a person who fulfils the following conditions:

1. Muslim: He must be a Muslim.

2. Male: Jumu'ah is not obligatory upon women, although they may attend and perform it with the congregation.

3. Mature: He must have reached puberty. Jumu'ah is not obligatory upon children, although they may attend.

4. Sane: He must be of sound mind.

5. Resident: He must not be regarded as a traveller under the relevant Islamic rulings.

6. Healthy and able to attend: He must be sufficiently well to attend without undue hardship. A person whose illness or physical condition makes attendance genuinely difficult may be excused.

7. Safe: He must be reasonably safe from danger on the journey to the place of prayer.

Classical Hanafi texts also discuss the ability to walk and sight as conditions of obligation, with further details concerning people who are blind or physically unable to attend.

A person who does not meet the conditions of obligation is excused from attending Jumu'ah. However, if Jumu'ah is validly performed by such a person, it can count in place of Zuhr Salah.

Employment and education are not automatically valid excuses. A Muslim man who is otherwise obliged to attend should make reasonable arrangements with his employer or educational institution to attend Jumu'ah. Genuine hardship and exceptional circumstances should be considered separately.

Women, travellers and those with valid excuses are not required to attend Jumu'ah. They should perform Zuhr Salah instead if they do not attend a valid Jumu'ah congregation.

Important Rulings Concerning Jumu'ah

1. Leaving trade and worldly activities

When the call to Jumu'ah is made, those upon whom Jumu'ah is obligatory must leave buying, selling and other activities that prevent them from attending the prayer.

Allah specifically commands believers to leave trade and hasten to the remembrance of Allah in Surah al-Jumu'ah, verse 9.

2. Listening to the khutbah

Once the Imam begins the khutbah, those attending must remain quiet and listen attentively. They should not engage in conversation, make unnecessary gestures, use their phones or distract others.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

If you say to your companion, "Be quiet and listen," while the Imam is delivering the khutbah on Friday, you have engaged in idle speech.

Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim

3. Making dhikr and sending Durood

During the khutbah, listeners should refrain from speaking or engaging in separate acts of dhikr. When the name of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is mentioned, a person may send blessings upon him silently in their heart rather than speaking aloud.

4. Performing Salah once the khutbah has begun

According to the Hanafi school, a person who enters the mosque after the Imam has begun the khutbah should sit down and listen rather than begin a voluntary prayer.

If someone has already started a Sunnah prayer before the khutbah begins, there are detailed Hanafi rulings about completing it. In general, an existing prayer should be concluded promptly without unnecessarily delaying attention to the khutbah. The precise ruling depends on the stage of the prayer and the timing of the khutbah.

5. Avoiding unnecessary movement

During the khutbah, a person should avoid fidgeting, playing with clothing, walking around without need or doing anything that distracts from listening.

Sunnah Prayers Before and After Jumu'ah

According to the Hanafi school, the commonly followed arrangement of prayers on Friday is:

Order	Prayer	Rak'ahs
Before Jumu'ah	Sunnah Mu'akkadah	4
Jumu'ah	Fardh	2
After Jumu'ah	Sunnah Mu'akkadah	4
After the four Sunnah	Additional Sunnah Ghayr Mu'akkadah	2

The four rak'ahs before Jumu'ah and the four rak'ahs after it are regarded as Sunnah Mu'akkadah in the Hanafi school. The additional two rak'ahs are generally treated as Sunnah Ghayr Mu'akkadah.

Sunnah Mu'akkadah prayers are strongly emphasised. A person should make an effort to maintain them and should not habitually neglect them without a valid reason. However, missing these Sunnah prayers does not invalidate the two obligatory rak'ahs of Jumu'ah.

The Two Obligatory Rak'ahs of Jumu'ah

After the Imam completes the khutbah, the congregation performs two rak'ahs of Fardh Salah behind him.

The Imam leads the prayer, reciting aloud in both rak'ahs. Those following the Imam should listen and follow his movements according to the Hanafi rules of congregational prayer.

The two obligatory rak'ahs of Jumu'ah take the place of the four obligatory rak'ahs of Zuhr for those who have validly performed Jumu'ah. They do not need to perform Zuhr afterwards.

Important: Jumu'ah is an obligation that should not be neglected without a valid Islamic excuse. Muslims should prepare for Friday prayer, attend on time, listen attentively to the khutbah and perform the prayer with the congregation.

Sunnahs and Etiquettes of Eid

There are a number of Sunnah and recommended practices that Muslims should observe on the days of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. These practices help Muslims celebrate Eid with gratitude, remember Allah and follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).

Sunnah Practices on Eid al-Fitr

The following practices are recommended on Eid al-Fitr:

1. Perform Ghusl: Take a bath before going to the Eid prayer.

2. Clean the teeth: Use a Miswak or another suitable means of cleaning the teeth.

3. Wear good clothing: Wear one's best clean and appropriate clothes, observing the requirements of Islamic dress.

4. Use perfume: Apply a pleasant fragrance, where appropriate. Men should avoid strong perfume being worn by women when going out.

5. Wake up early: Wake up early and prepare for the day of Eid. One may also perform Tahajjud before Fajr.

6. Eat before the prayer: Eat something before leaving for Eid Salah. It is Sunnah to eat an odd number of dates if available.

7. Give Zakat al-Fitr: Pay Zakat al-Fitr (Sadaqat al-Fitr) before Eid Salah, if it is due.

8. Go early to the prayer: Arrive early at the Eid prayer place so that one can take part in the congregation and gain the reward of being present.

9. Walk to the prayer: Walking to the Eid prayer is recommended if one is able to do so.

10. Recite Takbir: Recite the Takbir quietly while going to the Eid prayer place.

11. Return by a different route: If possible, return home by a different route from the one taken when going to the prayer.

12. Show happiness and gratitude: Thank Allah for His blessings, meet fellow Muslims with kindness and share the happiness of Eid.

The Takbir commonly recited when going to the Eid prayer is:

Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallahu Wallahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa lillahil-hamd.

Differences Between Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha

The recommended practices are generally the same for both Eids, with the following differences:

1. Eating before Salah: On Eid al-Fitr, it is Sunnah to eat before going to the prayer. On Eid al-Adha, it is recommended to delay eating until after the prayer, particularly for someone intending to offer a sacrifice.

2. Reciting Takbir: On Eid al-Fitr, the Takbir on the way to the prayer is recited quietly. On Eid al-Adha, it is recited aloud.

3. Time of prayer: It is recommended to delay Eid al-Fitr Salah slightly after its time begins, allowing time for Zakat al-Fitr to be distributed. Eid al-Adha Salah is recommended to be performed earlier.

4. Zakat al-Fitr and Qurbani: Zakat al-Fitr is associated with Eid al-Fitr. Qurbani is associated with Eid al-Adha and is Wajib in the Hanafi school for Muslims who meet its financial conditions. Qurbani does not replace Zakat al-Fitr where the latter is due.

Important: There is no Adhan or Iqamah for either Eid Salah.

Additional Rulings Relating to Eid Salah

1. Nafl Salah before Eid: There is no prescribed Sunnah or Nafl prayer before Eid Salah. In Hanafi fiqh, offering voluntary prayer in the Eid prayer area before the Eid prayer is disliked.

2. Nafl Salah after Eid: It is recommended to offer voluntary prayer at home after returning from Eid Salah. Offering Nafl prayer in the Eid prayer area immediately after the Eid prayer is regarded as disliked by many Hanafi scholars, although there is a recognised difference of opinion on this detail.

3. Place of Eid Salah: It is Sunnah to perform Eid Salah in an open prayer area (Eidgah), where possible, rather than in a mosque. However, performing it in a mosque is valid when the relevant conditions are fulfilled.

4. More than one Eid congregation: Eid Salah may be held at more than one suitable location within the same town, provided the necessary conditions for its validity are fulfilled.

5. Missing Eid Salah: In the Hanafi school, Eid Salah is a congregational prayer and cannot be performed individually at home as a replacement. If someone misses the congregation, they do not make up the Eid prayer alone. It is recommended for them to offer two or four Rak'ahs of Duha (Chasht) prayer instead.

6. Women and children: Eid Salah is not Wajib upon women or children in the Hanafi school. Women may attend the Eid gathering and prayer where suitable arrangements are provided.

Method of Performing Eid Salah (Hanafi)

Eid Salah consists of two Rak'ahs, with three additional Takbirs in each Rak'ah, making six additional Takbirs in total. The prayer is performed in congregation behind the Imam.

First Rak'ah

1. Make the intention in the heart to perform two Rak'ahs of Wajib Eid Salah behind the Imam.

2. The Imam will begin the prayer by saying Allahu Akbar. Raise both hands to the ears and fold them as in normal Salah.

3. Recite Thana quietly: Subhanakallahumma wa bihamdika...

4. The Imam will then say three additional Takbirs. For each Takbir, raise both hands to the ears and then let them fall by the sides. Do not fold the hands after the first or second Takbir.

5. After the third additional Takbir, raise the hands and say Allahu Akbar, then fold them.

6. The Imam will recite A'udhu billah, Bismillah, Surah al-Fatihah and another Surah aloud. The followers should remain quiet and listen to the Imam's recitation.

7. Follow the Imam into Ruku and Sujood, as in an ordinary prayer.

Second Rak'ah

1. Stand for the second Rak'ah. The Imam will recite Surah al-Fatihah and another Surah aloud.

2. After completing the recitation, the Imam will say three additional Takbirs. Raise both hands to the ears for each Takbir and then let them fall by the sides.

3. After the third additional Takbir, the Imam will say Allahu Akbar to go into Ruku. This is the Takbir for Ruku, so the hands are not raised for it.

4. Follow the Imam into Ruku and Sujood.

5. Complete the prayer by sitting for Tashahhud, reciting Durood Ibrahim and the prescribed Du'a, and then finishing with Salam.

The followers should follow the Imam and should not move ahead of him.

Joining Eid Salah Late

If someone arrives after the Eid congregation has started, they should join the Imam without unnecessary delay. The following are important Hanafi rulings:

1. Joining during the first Rak'ah

If a person joins the first Rak'ah after the Imam has completed the three additional Takbirs, the latecomer should say the three additional Takbirs after beginning the prayer, even if the Imam has already started reciting the Qur'an.

2. Joining while the Imam is in Ruku

If someone joins while the Imam is in Ruku, they should first make the opening Takbir and then join the Imam. If there is sufficient time, they should say the three additional Takbirs while standing before joining the Ruku.

If there is a genuine fear that the Imam will rise from Ruku before the three Takbirs can be completed, the latecomer should join the Ruku and say the remaining additional Takbirs there, without raising the hands. If the Imam rises before they have completed them, they should rise with the Imam and leave the remaining Takbirs.

3. Joining the second Rak'ah

If someone joins the Imam in the second Rak'ah, they should follow the Imam and complete the prayer with him. After the Imam finishes with Salam, the latecomer should stand and complete the missed Rak'ah.

When completing the missed first Rak'ah, they should recite Surah al-Fatihah and another Surah, then perform the three additional Takbirs before going into Ruku.

4. Joining after the Imam has completed the prayer

If someone misses the entire Eid congregation, they cannot perform Eid Salah alone or make it up individually according to the Hanafi school. They should not arrange a replacement Eid congregation without seeking guidance from a qualified Hanafi scholar.

The Eid Khutbah (Sermon)

After completing the two Rak'ahs, the Imam delivers the Eid khutbah. Unlike the Jumu'ah khutbah, which is delivered before the prayer, the Eid khutbah is delivered after the prayer.

The Eid khutbah is Sunnah and is not a condition for the validity of Eid Salah. Those attending should remain seated, listen attentively and avoid unnecessary talking or distracting others.

Sajdah al-Sahw in Eid Salah

There are specific Hanafi discussions concerning Sajdah al-Sahw during Eid Salah. Some later Hanafi jurists advised the Imam to avoid performing it in a large congregation where it could cause confusion. Other Hanafi authorities maintain that it should be performed when required.

Therefore, it should not be stated as an absolute rule that Sajdah al-Sahw must never be performed during Eid Salah. The Imam should follow the guidance of a qualified Hanafi scholar familiar with the relevant rulings.

Salah of a Musafir (Traveller)

Islam provides concessions for Muslims who undertake a journey. One of these concessions is Qasr, which means shortening certain obligatory prayers while travelling.

In the Hanafi school of thought, shortening the obligatory prayers is Wajib for a person who qualifies as a Musafir (traveller).

1. When Does a Person Become a Musafir?

A person becomes a Musafir when they:

• Intend to travel to a destination at least approximately 78 kilometres (48 miles) away.

• Leave the built-up boundary of their hometown or city.

The traveller begins shortening the relevant prayers only after leaving the boundary of their town or city, not when leaving their home.

If the intended journey is shorter than the prescribed travel distance, the person does not qualify as a Musafir and must perform the prayers in full.

The precise distance is expressed differently by some Hanafi scholars because of variations in converting the traditional Islamic measurement into modern kilometres and miles.

2. Which Salah Should a Traveller Shorten?

When a person qualifies as a Musafir, the four-Rak'ah obligatory prayers of Zuhr, Asr and Isha must be shortened to two Rak'ahs.

The prayers are performed as follows:

Salah	At home	While travelling
Fajr	2 Rak'ahs	2 Rak'ahs
Zuhr	4 Rak'ahs	2 Rak'ahs
Asr	4 Rak'ahs	2 Rak'ahs
Maghrib	3 Rak'ahs	3 Rak'ahs
Isha	4 Rak'ahs	2 Rak'ahs
Witr	3 Rak'ahs	3 Rak'ahs

There is no shortening of Fajr, Maghrib or Witr Salah.

3. Sunnah and Nafl Prayers While Travelling

A traveller should continue to perform the Sunnah and Nafl prayers where possible.

However, if a person is in a hurry, or there is a genuine concern that their travelling companions may leave without them, it is permissible to omit the Sunnah prayers that may be left while travelling.

The two Sunnah Rak'ahs of Fajr are particularly emphasised and should not be neglected without a valid reason. Witr Salah also remains Wajib in the Hanafi school, even while travelling.

4. What If a Traveller Performs Four Rak'ahs Instead of Two?

A Musafir should perform only two Rak'ahs for Zuhr, Asr and Isha when praying alone or leading a congregation as a traveller.

If a traveller mistakenly performs four Rak'ahs, the ruling depends on what happened during the prayer.

If the person sat for Tashahhud after the second Rak'ah, the first two Rak'ahs fulfil the obligatory prayer. The additional Rak'ahs do not replace the obligation to perform Qasr correctly, and the details of Sajdah al-Sahw depend on how the mistake occurred.

If the person did not sit for Tashahhud after the second Rak'ah, the obligatory prayer has not been completed correctly and must be repeated.

A person who makes this mistake should seek guidance from a qualified Hanafi scholar about the precise ruling in their circumstances.

5. How Long Can a Traveller Stay Somewhere?

If a traveller reaches a destination and intends to stay there for 15 days or more, they become a resident at that destination and must perform their prayers in full.

For example, if someone travels from Manchester to London and intends to stay in London for 15 days or longer, they must perform Zuhr, Asr and Isha as four Rak'ahs after arriving.

If the person intends to stay for fewer than 15 days, they remain a Musafir and must shorten the relevant obligatory prayers.

The intention must relate to staying in one place. If a person is travelling between different places without intending to stay for 15 days in any one qualifying location, they may remain a Musafir.

6. Praying Behind a Local Imam

If a traveller performs Salah behind a local Imam who is a resident and is performing the full four Rak'ahs, the traveller must follow the Imam and complete all four Rak'ahs.

The traveller cannot end the prayer after two Rak'ahs while the Imam continues.

However, if a traveller is leading the prayer, they perform two Rak'ahs and conclude the prayer. Any resident followers then stand and complete the remaining two Rak'ahs.

7. Staying Somewhere Without a Definite Intention to Remain

If a traveller arrives somewhere but does not make a definite intention to stay for 15 days or more, they remain a Musafir.

For example, someone may travel to another city for business and expect to leave soon, but the arrangements keep being delayed. Even if the person remains there for several weeks, they continue to perform Qasr if they have never made a definite intention to stay for 15 days or more in that place.

However, once they make a definite intention to stay for 15 days or more in one qualifying place, they become a resident and must pray in full.

8. A Woman Travelling With Her Husband or Mahram

A woman's status as a traveller for the purposes of Qasr is determined by the same travel-distance and duration rules.

She must assess her own travel circumstances and intention. Her husband's or father's intention does not automatically determine whether she is a Musafir.

In the classical Hanafi position, a woman should not undertake a journey of the prescribed Sharia travel distance without her husband or a Mahram.

A Mahram is a man whom she can never marry because of a permanent relationship, such as her father, grandfather, son, brother, paternal uncle or maternal uncle.

There are contemporary scholarly discussions about exceptional circumstances, genuine needs and safe forms of travel. Anyone facing such circumstances should seek a specific ruling from a qualified scholar rather than assuming that the general Hanafi ruling has changed.

9. Making Up Missed Salah While Travelling

A Muslim should make every effort to perform Salah within its prescribed time, even while travelling.

If a person misses Zuhr, Asr or Isha while they were legally a traveller, the missed prayer must be made up as two Rak'ahs, even if they return home before making it up.

Similarly, if a person misses one of these prayers while they were a resident, the missed prayer must be made up as four Rak'ahs, even if they subsequently begin travelling.

The number of Rak'ahs for a missed prayer is determined by the person's status when the prayer became due and was missed.

Fajr, Maghrib and Witr are made up in their usual number of Rak'ahs.

10. Important Reminder About Combining Salah

According to the Hanafi school, the five daily prayers are generally performed within their own prescribed times, even when travelling.

A traveller should not normally combine Zuhr and Asr or Maghrib and Isha into one prayer time.

The recognised exceptions concern the specific circumstances of Hajj at Arafat and Muzdalifah.

Conclusion

The concession of Qasr is a mercy from Allah for Muslims undertaking a journey. A traveller should understand when the rules apply and ensure that the obligatory prayers are performed correctly.

Muslims should never neglect their Salah because they are travelling. Rather, they should observe the concessions granted by Islamic law and continue to fulfil their obligation to Allah.

Voluntary Prayers (Sunnah and Nafl Salah)

In addition to the five obligatory daily prayers, Islam encourages Muslims to perform voluntary prayers, known as Sunnah and Nafl Salah. These prayers provide further opportunities to worship Allah, seek forgiveness, remember Him and gain additional rewards.

Some voluntary prayers are strongly emphasised Sunnah (Sunnah Mu'akkadah), while others are non-emphasised Sunnah (Sunnah Ghair Mu'akkadah) or optional Nafl prayers.

The following are some of the well-known voluntary prayers.

1. Ishraq Salah (Sunrise Prayer)

Ishraq Salah is a voluntary prayer performed after sunrise, once the sun has risen sufficiently above the horizon.

It is recommended to remain seated after performing Fajr Salah, remembering Allah through Dhikr, recitation of the Qur'an and Du'a until after sunrise.

Once the sun has risen and the prohibited time has passed, Ishraq Salah may be performed.

Time: Approximately 15–20 minutes after sunrise, depending on the local timetable and conditions.

Number of Rak'ahs: Two or four Rak'ahs.

A narration recorded by Tirmidhi mentions the great reward for a person who performs Fajr in congregation, remains engaged in the remembrance of Allah until sunrise, and then performs two Rak'ahs.

Ishraq is generally regarded by many scholars as the early part of Salat al-Duha, although some scholars distinguish between the two names.

2. Duha Salah (Chasht Prayer)

Duha Salah, also known as Chasht, is a voluntary morning prayer performed after the sun has risen sufficiently and before midday.

It is a recommended prayer and an opportunity to remember Allah and show gratitude for His blessings.

Time: It begins after the prohibited period following sunrise and continues until shortly before the sun reaches its zenith.

Number of Rak'ahs: At least two Rak'ahs. Four or more may also be performed.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) encouraged the performance of Duha prayer. It may be performed in sets of two Rak'ahs.

3. Tahajjud Salah (Night Prayer)

Tahajjud is a voluntary prayer performed during the night. It is among the most virtuous forms of voluntary worship.

Allah mentions the night prayer in the Qur'an:

"And during a part of the night, pray Tahajjud beyond what is incumbent upon you; maybe your Lord will raise you to a praised position." (Surah al-Isra, 17:79)

Tahajjud is generally performed after waking from sleep, although voluntary night prayer may also be performed before sleeping.

Time: After Isha Salah and before the beginning of Fajr time. The most virtuous time is generally the final part of the night.

Number of Rak'ahs: A minimum of two Rak'ahs may be performed. Eight Rak'ahs is a commonly recommended amount in Hanafi practice, although a person may perform according to their ability.

The prayer is performed in sets of two Rak'ahs, with Salam at the end of each pair.

A person should recite whatever portions of the Qur'an they know. There is no requirement to complete the entire Qur'an during Tahajjud.

The night prayer is also an excellent opportunity to make Du'a, seek forgiveness, repent for sins and ask Allah for guidance and assistance.

During Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to make additional time for night worship, including Tahajjud.

4. Salat al-Tasbih (Prayer of Glorification)

Salat al-Tasbih is a voluntary prayer consisting of four Rak'ahs. It is associated with a narration in which the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) taught this prayer to his uncle, Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him).

The narration describes a prayer in which a particular Tasbih is recited 300 times across four Rak'ahs.

The narration and its grading have been discussed by hadith scholars. Some scholars accept and recommend this prayer, while others regard the supporting narrations as weak. It should therefore be treated as an optional act of worship, not an obligatory or universally agreed Sunnah.

The Tasbih to be recited is:

Subhaan Allahi walhamdu lillaahi wa laa ilaaha illallaahu wallaahu akbar.

Translation: Glory be to Allah, all praise belongs to Allah, there is no god worthy of worship except Allah, and Allah is the Greatest.

Method of Performing Salat al-Tasbih

The following is a commonly taught method:

First Rak'ah

1. Make the intention to perform four Rak'ahs of Salat al-Tasbih.

2. Begin the prayer with Takbir and recite Thana.

3. Recite Surah al-Fatihah and another Surah.

4. While still standing, recite the Tasbih 15 times.

5. Go into Ruku and, after the usual Tasbih of Ruku, recite the special Tasbih 10 times.

6. Rise from Ruku and, after the usual praise of Allah, recite the special Tasbih 10 times.

7. Perform the first Sajdah and recite the special Tasbih 10 times after the usual Tasbih of Sajdah.

8. Sit between the two Sajdahs and recite the special Tasbih 10 times.

9. Perform the second Sajdah and recite the special Tasbih 10 times after the usual Tasbih of Sajdah.

This gives 75 repetitions in the first Rak'ah.

Perform the remaining three Rak'ahs in the same manner, making a total of 300 repetitions.

In the second Rak'ah, sit for the first Tashahhud after the second Sajdah. After the fourth Rak'ah, complete the prayer with Tashahhud, Durood Ibrahim, Du'a and Salam.

Important Notes

• The Tasbih should be recited quietly.

• Do not speak or count aloud during Salah.

• Keep track of the repetitions carefully.

• If you lose count, make a reasonable effort to complete the intended number.

• There is no need to perform this prayer at a fixed daily or weekly interval.

• It must not be performed during the prohibited times for voluntary Salah.

5. Salat al-Tawbah (Prayer of Repentance)

Salat al-Tawbah is a voluntary prayer performed when a person has committed a sin and wishes to turn sincerely back to Allah.

A Muslim should never lose hope in the mercy and forgiveness of Allah. When a person commits a sin, they should repent sincerely, regret the wrongdoing and make a firm intention not to return to it.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) taught that a person who commits a sin, performs Wudu, offers two Rak'ahs and seeks Allah's forgiveness may receive His forgiveness.

This prayer is performed as follows:

1. Make Wudu properly.

2. Make the intention to perform two Rak'ahs of Nafl Salah for repentance.

3. Perform two Rak'ahs in the usual manner.

4. After completing the prayer, sincerely ask Allah for forgiveness.

5. Regret the sin and make a firm intention not to repeat it.

Allah says:

"And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves, remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins – and who can forgive sins except Allah? – and they do not persist in what they have done while they know." (Surah Aal-Imran, 3:135)

Sincere repentance also requires returning people's rights where these have been violated. If the sin involves another person's rights, those rights must be addressed.

6. Salat al-Awwabin (Prayer of the Oft-Repentant)

Salat al-Awwabin is a voluntary prayer performed after Maghrib Salah.

In Hanafi practice, six Rak'ahs of Nafl are recommended after Maghrib. They are generally performed in sets of two Rak'ahs.

A narration recorded by Tirmidhi mentions the reward of performing six Rak'ahs after Maghrib without engaging in inappropriate conversation between them.

There is a scholarly difference of opinion among Hanafi jurists about whether the two confirmed Sunnah Rak'ahs after Maghrib may be included within the six Rak'ahs or whether the six should be performed separately.

A person may therefore perform the two Sunnah Rak'ahs after Maghrib and then offer additional Nafl prayers.

Salat al-Awwabin is voluntary and should not be treated as an obligatory prayer.

7. Salat al-Hajah (Prayer When Seeking Help from Allah)

Salat al-Hajah is a voluntary prayer performed when a person has a particular need, difficulty or concern and wishes to seek Allah's assistance.

A Muslim should turn to Allah in every situation, whether facing hardship, illness, financial difficulty or an important decision.

The general practice is to:

1. Perform Wudu.

2. Offer two Rak'ahs of Nafl Salah.

3. After completing the prayer, praise Allah and send blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).

4. Make sincere Du'a, explaining one's need and asking Allah for help.

A person may ask Allah for anything that is lawful and beneficial. They should have trust in Allah's wisdom and accept that the answer to a Du'a may come in a way or at a time different from what they expected.

The general practice of seeking Allah's help through Salah and Du'a is established in Islamic teachings. However, some specific narrations and prescribed formulas associated with Salat al-Hajah have been subject to scholarly discussion.

8. Tahiyyatul Wudu (Prayer After Ablution)

Tahiyyatul Wudu is a voluntary prayer performed after completing Wudu.

It is recommended to offer two Rak'ahs after performing Wudu, provided it is not a prohibited time for voluntary prayer.

Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) asked Bilal (may Allah be pleased with him) about the deed he considered most hopeful for reward.

Bilal explained that whenever he performed Wudu during the day or night, he would offer as many voluntary Rak'ahs as Allah enabled him to perform.

This narration is recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari.

Tahiyyatul Wudu may be performed as two Rak'ahs of Nafl. A person who also intends to perform another suitable voluntary prayer may combine intentions where appropriate.

9. Tahiyyatul Masjid (Prayer Upon Entering the Mosque)

Tahiyyatul Masjid is a voluntary prayer performed when entering a mosque, before sitting down.

Abu Qatadah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

"When one of you enters the mosque, he should not sit down until he has performed two Rak'ahs." (Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim)

The prayer consists of two Rak'ahs of Nafl.

It is recommended to perform Tahiyyatul Masjid before sitting down, provided it is not a time when voluntary prayer is prohibited.

If a person enters the mosque and immediately joins an obligatory congregation, the obligatory prayer fulfils the purpose of greeting the mosque, and there is no need to perform a separate two Rak'ahs.

A person may also combine the intention of Tahiyyatul Masjid with another suitable voluntary prayer.

10. Four Rak'ahs Sunnah Before Zuhr Salah

In the Hanafi school, it is Sunnah Mu'akkadah to perform four Rak'ahs before the obligatory Zuhr Salah.

These four Rak'ahs are emphasised Sunnah and should be performed regularly.

They are performed as four Rak'ahs with one Salam at the end.

A narration from Umm Habibah (may Allah be pleased with her) reports that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) mentioned the virtue of regularly performing four Rak'ahs before Zuhr and four after it. (Abu Dawud and Tirmidhi)

The four Rak'ahs before Zuhr are therefore an important part of the regular Sunnah prayers.

11. Four Rak'ahs Sunnah Before Asr Salah

It is recommended in the Hanafi school to perform four Rak'ahs of Sunnah Ghair Mu'akkadah before the obligatory Asr Salah.

Unlike the four Rak'ahs before Zuhr, these are non-emphasised Sunnah prayers. A person receives reward for performing them, but there is no sin for leaving them.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

"May Allah have mercy on a person who prays four Rak'ahs before Asr." (Abu Dawud and Tirmidhi)

These four Rak'ahs are voluntary and should be performed before the obligatory Asr prayer, provided there is sufficient time.

Important: Prohibited Times for Voluntary Salah

Although voluntary prayers are encouraged, there are specific times when Nafl Salah should not be performed according to Hanafi fiqh.

These include:

1. During sunrise, until the sun has risen sufficiently above the horizon.

2. When the sun is at its zenith, immediately before the beginning of Zuhr time.

3. During sunset, when the sun is setting until it has completely disappeared.

4. After performing the obligatory Fajr Salah until the sun has risen sufficiently.

5. After performing the obligatory Asr Salah until sunset.

There are additional details and exceptions concerning obligatory prayers, missed prayers and other necessary prayers. The above list concerns voluntary prayers.

Muslims should consult a reliable local prayer timetable and avoid performing voluntary prayers during these prohibited periods.

Conclusion

Voluntary prayers provide Muslims with additional opportunities to worship Allah, strengthen their faith and seek His forgiveness and mercy.

Although these prayers are not all obligatory, performing them regularly can help a person develop a stronger connection with Allah and maintain consistency in worship.

A Muslim should always give priority to the five obligatory daily prayers before concentrating on voluntary acts of worship.