Lecture on Prayer in Islam

Introduction

• Invocation: The lecture begins with praises to Allah and blessings on Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
• Importance of Prayer: Prayer is a pillar of Islam and a vast topic including conditions, nullifiers, pillars, mandatory acts, and Sunnah acts.
• Purpose: Aim to describe how the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) prayed based on Sunnah and hadiths.

Conditions of Prayer

• Definition of Condition: Without it, the worship doesn't exist; if fulfilled, it may not compel the act.
• Wudu (Ablution): Essential for valid prayer.
• Intention (Niyyah): Must know what prayer is being performed; mostly considered a condition.
• Facing the Qibla: Must be in the direction of Kaaba.
• Timing: Must pray within the specified times.
• Covering the Awrah: For men, navel to knees.
• Purity: Involves Wudu, no impurities on body, clothes, or prayer spot.

Beginning the Prayer

• Intention: Internal, not verbal.
• First Pillar: Standing if able.
• Takbeeratul-Ihram: Saying "Allahu Akbar" to start.
• Hand Position: Right over left on the chest, based on the authentic Sunnah.

During the Prayer

• Eye Focus: Look at the spot of prostration to avoid distractions.
• Raising Hands: Sunnah to raise hands during certain movements (before/during Takbeer, before Ruku).
• Recitation: Al-Fatiha is a pillar of prayer; additional Surah is Sunnah.

Ruku (Bowing)

• Posture: Back straight, head level, hands on knees.
• Dhikr: "Subhanarrabbi al-azim" (Minimum once, recommended thrice).

Sujood (Prostration)

• Posture: Forehead, nose, palms, knees, feet touching ground; arms away from body.
• Dhikr: "Subhanarabbi al-Ala" and supplications.

Sitting Between Sujoods

• Iftirash: Sit on left foot, erect right foot.
• Supplication: "Rabbighfir li" often recited.

Tashahud

• First Tashahud: Sitting on left foot, right foot erect.
• Hand Position: Point index finger, moving it during recitation.

Final Tashahud and Salah

• Tawarruk Position: Sit on left side, right foot erect.
• Salutation to Prophet: Recited in the last Tashahud.
• Supplications: Seek refuge from four things before concluding with Salam.

Common Mistakes

• Rising with the Imam: Avoid moving before the Imam reaches the next position.
• Eye Focus: Avoid closing eyes during prayer.
• Hands in Tashahud: Avoid unnecessary movements.

General Advice

• Follow the Sunnah: Aim to pray as the Prophet did.
• Avoid Disputes: Over minor differences in prayer practice.
• Timeliness: Ensure all actions are done within the prescribed sequence and timing.

Miscellaneous

• Women’s Prayer: Similar with considerations for attire.
• Travellers' Prayer: Adjustments based on travel conditions.
• Use of Tayammum: Permitted under certain conditions.