Fajr prayer, also called the dawn prayer, is among the five obligatory Salah (prayers) in Islam, marking the commencement of a new day, offering Muslims the opportunity to begin their day with remembrance and worship of Allah.
This article offers an comprehensive overview regarding the process for conducting the Fajr prayer, including the intention (niyat), the Qunut supplication, and delves into the benefits of this integral act of devotion.
### Comprehending the Fajr Prayer
The Fajr prayer comprises two Rak'ahs (units of prayer) and acts as the inaugural of the five daily prayers, taking place at dawn before sunrise. It includes two Rak'ahs: the Sunnah (non-mandatory yet firmly advised) and the Fard (mandatory) prayer.
### Niyyah for Fajr Prayer (Niyat)
The niyyah for the Fajr prayer is made internally, not spoken. It involves an internal determination to carry out the prayer with sincerity for the cause of Allah. For the Fajr prayer, the intention can be articulated as:
"I purpose to carry out the two Rak'ahs of the obligatory (or Sunnah, if participating in the Sunnah Rak'ahs) Fajr prayer for the sake of Allah, while the Qibla."
### Procedures for Fajr Prayer
1. **Beginning the Prayer (Takbiratul Ihram)**:
- Commence by adopting an upright position as facing the Qibla.
- Raise your hands to your ears and 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, recite Surah Al-Fatiha (the primary chapter of the Quran).
- Follow it with the reading of another Surah or some verses from the Quran, usually Surah Al-Ikhlas in the initial Rak'ah and Surah Al-Falaq or An-Nas in the second Rak'ah.
3. **Ruku (Bowing) and Sujood (Prostration)**:
- Complete the Rak'ah with Ruku, uttering "Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem" (Glory be to my Lord, the Almighty) thrice.
- Perform the two Sujoods in each Rak'ah, articulating "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. **Ending the Prayer (Tasleem)**:
- Conclude the prayer by rotating your head to the right and then to the left, saying "Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah" (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you) on occasion.
### Qunut Supplication in Fajr Prayer
The Qunut supplication is sometimes recited in the course of the Fajr prayer, specifically in the subsequent Rak'ah simply ahead of or pursuing the Ruku. The Qunut is a supplication for counsel, patience, and relief from suffering. The subsequent is one of the common Qunut supplications:
- **Transliteration**: "Allahumma inna nasta'inuka wa nastaghfiruka wa nu
'minu bika wa sholat tahajud 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 Self-control**:
- Conducting the Fajr prayer shows a Muslim's devotion and loyalty to their faith, as it mandates awakening early and commencing the day with devotion and remembrance of Allah.
2. **Spiritual and Mental Gains**:
- The serenity and peace encountered throughout the Fajr prayer hold significant impacts on one's spiritual and emotional well-being, creating a positive tone for the rest of the day.
3. **A Testimony for the Believer**:
- The Fajr prayer acts as a confirmation by the angels. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) declared: "The two Rak'ahs (units) of the Fajr prayer are better to this world and all it includes."
4. **Protection Throughout the Day**:
- Participating in the Fajr prayer in congregation acts as a way of protecting the believer. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) affirmed that the one who attends in the Fajr prayer in congregation is placed under the safeguard of Allah.
### Conclusion
The Fajr prayer holds a central role in a Muslim's daily ritual, representing the start of the day with divine connection and reflection. The Qunut supplication adds an added layer of spiritual depth, requesting guidance and assistance from Allah. Comprehending and implementing the procedure, intention, and supplications of the Fajr prayer can greatly enhance a believer's spiritual path, providing serenity, rigor, and an elevated awareness of the divine presence into their daily life. The virtues of the Fajr prayer highlight its significance and the plentiful spiritual rewards it provides, rendering an indispensable practice for Muslims throughout the world.