Introduction:
Prayer (Salah) is a fundamental pillar of Islam and serves as a means of communication and connection with Allah. The 4-Rakat prayer, commonly known as a “Sunnah Muakkadah” or “Sunnah Ghair Muakkadah,” holds great significance for Muslims. This article provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to perform a 4-Rakat prayer, allowing individuals to establish a deep and meaningful connection with Allah through this beautiful act of worship.
Step 1: Intentions (Niyyah):
Begin by making a sincere intention in your heart to perform the 4-Rakat prayer solely for the sake of Allah and to seek His pleasure. While the intention is made internally, it is essential to approach each prayer with sincerity and focus.
Step 2: Start with Takbiratul Ihram:
Raise your hands to the level of your shoulders and say “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest) while simultaneously placing your right hand over your left hand on your chest. This gesture, known as Takbiratul Ihram, signifies the start of the prayer and submission to Allah’s presence.
Step 3: Recitation of Opening Supplications:
Seek Allah’s refuge from Satan by reciting “A’udhu Billahi Minash Shaytanir Rajeem” (I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Satan). Follow this by reciting “Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim” (In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful).
Step 4: Recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha:
Recite Surah Al-Fatiha, the opening chapter of the Quran, silently or audibly depending on the type of prayer being performed. Surah Al-Fatiha consists of seven verses and serves as the core of every unit of prayer (Rakat).
Step 5: Recitation of Additional Verses:
After Surah Al-Fatiha, recite any additional verses or surahs from the Quran. It is recommended to recite shorter chapters, such as Surah Al-Ikhlas or Surah Al-Kawthar, during the 4-Rakat prayer.
Step 6: Ruk’ah (Bowing):
Place your hands on your knees and bow down, saying “Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem” (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) three times. Maintain a humble and focused posture during the bowing position.
Step 7: Rising from Ruk’ah (Standing Position):
Rise from the bowing position, straightening your back, and say “Sami Allahu liman hamidah” (Allah hears those who praise Him). Respond with “Rabbana walakal hamd” (Our Lord, to You be praise) as you stand upright.
Step 8: Sujood (Prostration):
Lower yourself into the prostration position, placing your forehead, nose, hands, knees, and toes on the ground. While in prostration, say “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la” (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) three times. Maintain a state of humility and devotion during this position.
Step 9: Rising from Sujood (Sitting Position):
Rise from the prostration position, sitting on your heels while maintaining composure and tranquility. In this sitting position, say “Allahu Akbar” and move to the next Rakat by repeating steps 3 to 8.
Step 10: Tashahhud (Testimony of Faith) and Salutations:
After completing the second Sujood (prostration) of the second Rakat, sit in the upright position and recite the Tashahhud. This is a testimony of faith and a moment of reflection on the presence of Allah. It is recited as follows:
“At-Tahiyyatu lillahi was-salawatu wat-tayyibat. As-salamu ‘alaika ayyuhan-nabiyyu wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh. As-salamu ‘alaina wa ‘ala ‘ibadillahis-saliheen. Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh.”
Translation: “All greetings, blessings, and pure words are due to Allah. Peace be upon you, O Prophet, and the mercy of Allah and His blessings. Peace be upon us and upon the righteous servants of Allah. I bear witness that there is no god except Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger.”
Step 11: Taslim (Final Salutation):
To conclude the prayer, turn your head to the right and say, “Assalamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullah” (Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah). Then turn your head to the left and repeat the salutation.
Conclusion:
Performing the 4-Rakat prayer is an essential act of worship for Muslims, fostering a deep connection with Allah and providing spiritual nourishment. This step-by-step guide serves as a practical reference, emphasizing the significance of each action and recitation in establishing a meaningful prayer experience.
Remember, prayer is not merely a physical ritual but an opportunity for spiritual elevation and mindfulness. Strive to maintain focus, sincerity, and humility throughout your prayer, seeking Allah’s pleasure and guidance in every step.
May Allah accept our prayers and grant us the ability to perform our acts of worship with devotion and sincerity. May our prayers serve as a means of spiritual growth, purification, and a source of solace and tranquility in our lives. Ameen.
ISLAMIC LAWS 