The Fajr prayer, also referred to as the dawn prayer, is one of the five obligatory Salah (prayers) in Islam, marking the commencement of a new day, granting Muslims the chance to begin their day with remembrance and prayer of Allah.
This particular article provides an comprehensive explanation concerning the process for performing the Fajr prayer, which includes the intention (niyat), the Qunut supplication, and also delves into the merits of this crucial ritual of devotion.
### Understanding the Fajr Prayer
The Fajr prayer consists of two Rak'ahs (units of prayer) and functions as the first of the five daily prayers, being at dawn before sunrise. It consists of two Rak'ahs: the Sunnah (non-mandatory yet firmly recommended) and the Fard (mandatory) prayer.
### Intention for Fajr Prayer (Niyat)
The niyyah for the Fajr prayer is made internally, not spoken. It requires an mental determination to perform the prayer genuinely for the cause of Allah. In the case of the Fajr prayer, the intention can be expressed as:
"I intend to conduct the two Rak'ahs of the obligatory (or Sunnah, if participating in the Sunnah Rak'ahs) Fajr prayer for the intention of Allah, while the Qibla."
### Steps for Fajr Prayer
1. **Initiating the Prayer (Takbiratul Ihram)**:
- Commence by adopting an upright stance and facing the Qibla.
- Raise your hands to your ears and utter "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest), marking the start of the prayer.
2. **Repetition of Al-Fatiha and Another one Surah**:
- After the opening supplication, voice Surah Al-Fatiha (the initial chapter of the Quran).
- Follow it with the reading of another Surah or a few verses from the Quran, typically Surah Al-Ikhlas in the first Rak'ah and Surah Al-Falaq or An-Nas in the next Rak'ah.
3. **Ruku (Bowing) and Sujood al hujurat ayat 13 menjelaskan tentang (Prostration)**:
- Complete the Rak'ah with Ruku, uttering "Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem" (Glory be to my Lord, the Almighty) 3 times.
- Perform the two Sujoods in every single Rak'ah, expressing "Subhana Rabbiyal A'la" (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) three times in each prostration.
4. **Tashahhud**:
- After finishing the two Rak'ahs, assume a seated position for the Tashahhud.
- Voice the Tashahhud supplication.
5. **Concluding the Prayer (Tasleem)**:
- End the prayer by turning your head to the right and then to the left, uttering "Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah" (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you) on occasion.
### Qunut Supplication in Fajr Prayer
The Qunut supplication is at times recited during the Fajr prayer, specifically in the subsequent Rak'ah merely ahead of or pursuing the Ruku. The Qunut is a supplication for guidance, endurance, and relief from hardship. The subsequent is one of the common Qunut supplications:
- **Transliteration**: "Allahumma inna nasta'inuka wa nastaghfiruka wa nu
'minu bika wa natawakkalu 'alayka wa nuthni 'alaykal khayr kullah. Nashkuruka wa la nakfuruka wa nakhla'u wa natruku man yafjuruk."
- **Meaning**: "O Allah, we seek Your help and ask for Your forgiveness, and we believe in You and rely on You.
We praise You for all the good, and we are grateful to You, and we forsake and turn away from the one who disobeys You."
### Virtues of Fajr Prayer
1. **A Token of Dedication and Rigorousness**:
- Performing the Fajr prayer shows a Muslim's commitment and loyalty to their faith, as it mandates rising early and starting the day with worship and remembrance of Allah.
2. **Psychological and Mental Benefits**:
- The peace and tranquility encountered during the Fajr prayer possess deep impacts on one's spiritual and psychological well-being, setting a constructive attitude for the remaining of the day.
3. **A Confirmation for the Believer**:
- The Fajr prayer functions as a witness by the angels. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated: "The two Rak'ahs (units) of the Fajr prayer are better to this globe and all it includes."
4. **Shield Throughout the Day**:
- Performing in the Fajr prayer in congregation acts as a way of ensuring the safety of the believer. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) confirmed that the one who attends in the Fajr prayer in congregation is placed under the protection of Allah.
### Conclusion
The Fajr prayer holds a pivotal place in a Muslim's daily routine, symbolizing the start of the day with celestial connection and reflection. The Qunut supplication provides an added layer of spiritual depth, requesting guidance and assistance from Allah. Grasping and enacting the procedure, intention, and supplications of the Fajr prayer can greatly enhance a believer's spiritual adventure, providing tranquility, discipline, and an elevated awareness of the divine presence into their daily life. The virtues of the Fajr prayer emphasize its significance and the ample spiritual rewards it bestows, making an essential practice for Muslims around the world.