Fajr prayer, also called the dawn prayer, is among the five obligatory Salah (prayers) in Islam, commemorating the commencement of a new day, providing Muslims the occasion to start their day with recollection and worship of Allah.
This particular guide provides an comprehensive overview of the procedure for conducting the Fajr prayer, which includes the intention (niyat), the Qunut supplication, as well as delves into the benefits of this crucial practice of devotion.
### Comprehending the Fajr Prayer
The Fajr prayer comprises two Rak'ahs (units of prayer) and acts as the initial of the five daily prayers, taking place at dawn before sunrise. It comprises two Rak'ahs: the Sunnah (non-mandatory yet firmly advised) and the Fard (mandatory) prayer.
### Intention for Fajr Prayer (Niyat)
The intention for the Fajr prayer is made within one's heart, not spoken. It entails an inner intent to carry out the prayer sincerely for the cause of Allah. In the case of the Fajr prayer, the intention can be articulated as:
"I plan to carry out the two Rak'ahs of the obligatory (or Sunnah, if participating in the Sunnah Rak'ahs) Fajr prayer for the intention of Allah, facing the Qibla."
### Steps for Fajr Prayer
1. **Initiating the Prayer (Takbiratul Ihram)**:
- Start by assuming an upright stance and facing the Qibla.
- Raise your hands towards your ears and kiamat kubra say "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest), indicating the initiation of the prayer.
2. **Recitation of Al-Fatiha and An additional Surah**:
- After the opening supplication, articulate Surah Al-Fatiha (the first chapter of the Quran).
- Follow it with the recital of another Surah or several verses from the Quran, usually Surah Al-Ikhlas in the initial Rak'ah and Surah Al-Falaq or An-Nas in the subsequent Rak'ah.
3. **Ruku (Bowing) and Sujood (Prostration)**:
- Complete the Rak'ah with Ruku, voicing "Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem" (Glory be to my Lord, the Almighty) 3 times.
- Perform the two Sujoods in every single Rak'ah, voicing "Subhana Rabbiyal A'la" (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) thrice in every single prostration.
4. **Tashahhud**:
- After concluding the two Rak'ahs, assume a seated position for the Tashahhud.
- Voice the Tashahhud supplication.
5. **Terminating the Prayer (Tasleem)**:
- Bring the prayer by rotating your head to the right and then to the left, voicing "Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah" (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you) each occasion.
### Qunut Supplication in Fajr Prayer
The Qunut supplication is at times voiced during the Fajr prayer, especially in the second Rak'ah simply ahead of or following the Ruku. The Qunut is a supplication for direction, endurance, and relief from suffering. The next is one of the typical 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 Symbol of Dedication and Self-control**:
- Conducting the Fajr prayer illustrates a Muslim's dedication and commitment to their faith, as it requires awakening early and commencing the day with prayer and remembrance of Allah.
2. **Psychological and Mental Benefits**:
- The calmness and tranquility encountered throughout the Fajr prayer hold significant impacts on one's spiritual and psychological well-being, establishing a constructive attitude for the remainder of the day.
3. **A Testimony for the Believer**:
- The Fajr prayer functions as a witness by the angels. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) declared: "The two Rak'ahs (units) of the Fajr prayer are greater to this globe and all it includes."
4. **Safeguard Throughout**:
- Participating in the Fajr prayer in congregation serves as a way of protecting the believer. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) asserted that the one who joins in the Fajr prayer in congregation falls under the safeguard of Allah.
### Conclusion
The Fajr prayer holds a pivotal position in a Muslim's daily schedule, representing the start of the day with spiritual connection and reflection. The Qunut supplication adds an extra layer of spiritual depth, requesting guidance and support from Allah. Grasping and implementing the procedure, intention, and supplications of the Fajr prayer can significantly enhance a believer's spiritual path, providing serenity, discipline, and a higher awareness of the divine presence into their daily life. The virtues of the Fajr prayer highlight its significance and the ample spiritual rewards it offers, making an integral practice for Muslims around the world.