The Importance of Fajr Prayer in Islam: How, When and Why to Perform the Morning Prayer

The Fajr prayer is performed before sunrise, i.e. when the first light of dawn appears on the horizon. The exact time for the Fajr prayer varies depending on location and season. Muslims use prayer schedules or apps to determine the exact time for Fajr prayer in their locality. It is recommended to perform the Fajr prayer as early as possible, preferably at the first time, which is the time of true dawn.

The Fajr prayer consists of two rakat (prayer units). Each rakat consists of a sequence of standing, bowing, prostrating, and sitting, as well as reciting certain verses from the Quran and other supplications. The first rakat of the Fajr prayer is longer than the second rakat because it contains a longer section from the Quran.

The following is a step-by-step explanation of how to perform the Fajr prayer:

1. Perform ablution (wudu) by washing your hands, mouth, nose, face, arms, head and feet.
2. Stand facing the Qiblah (the Kaaba in Mecca) with your hands folded on your chest.
3. Say the opening takbir (Allahu Akbar) to begin the prayer.
   Recite the intention (niyyah) for the Fajr prayer quietly in your mind.
4. Recite the opening prayer (dua) and then Surah Al-Fatihah, the first chapter of the Quran.
5. Recite a longer passage from the Qur’an in the first rakaat, such as Surah Al-Baqarah, Al-Imran, or Al-Ma’idah.
6. Bow (rukoo) while saying “Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem” (Glory be to my Lord, the Exalted).
7. Rise from the bow and say, “Sami Allahu liman hamidah” (Allah hears those who praise Him).
8. Prostrate (sujood) while saying “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la” (Glory be to my Lord, the Exalted).
9. Rise from the prostration position and say “Allahu Akbar”.
10. Sit on your heels, place your hands on your thighs, and recite the Tashahhud, a supplication with blessings and greetings to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
11. Recite the final supplication (dua) and then stand up for the second rakat.
    Repeat the same sequence of standing, bowing, prostrating, and sitting as for the first rakat, but recite a shorter passage from the Quran for the second rakat.
12. After completing the second rakat, recite the final supplication (dua) and then turn your face to the right and say “Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah” (Peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah). Then turn your face to the left and repeat the same greeting.

Congratulations. You have performed the Fajr prayer.

Muslims must perform the Fajr prayer once a day. It is one of the five daily prayers Muslims must perform, along with the Dhuhr (midday prayer), Asr (afternoon prayer), Maghrib (sunset), and Isha (night prayer). The Fajr prayer is considered one of the most important prayers in Islam, as it ushers in the day and sets the tone for the rest of the day’s activities.

The Fajr prayer is highly recommended in Islam for several reasons:

First, it is the first prayer of the day and sets the tone for the rest of the day’s activities: By rising early and performing the Fajr prayer, we show that we are committed to our faith and ready to face the challenges of the day ahead.

Second, the Fajr prayer is a time of special blessings and rewards: Prophet Muhammad (‘alaihis-salâm) said, “Whoever performs the Fajr prayer is under the protection of Allah” (Sahih Muslim). This means that Muslims who perform the Fajr prayer receive divine protection and blessings that can help them throughout the day.

Third, Fajr prayer is a time for spiritual reflection and contemplation: we Muslims are encouraged to recite the Quran during Fajr prayer, as it is a time when the mind is fresh and free from distractions.

Prophet Muhammad (‘alaihis-salâm) said, “Recite the Qur’an during the Fajr prayer, for the recitation is witnessed by the angels” (Sahih Muslim). By reciting the Qur’an during the Fajr prayer, we can deepen our spiritual connection to Allah and gain a better understanding of our faith.

In summary, the Fajr prayer is an important part of a Muslim’s daily routine. It is a time of spiritual reflection, contemplation and devotion that sets the tone for the rest of the day. Through the Fajr prayer, we Muslims show our commitment to our faith, receive divine protection and blessings, and deepen our spiritual connection with Allah. I hope this article has helped you better understand the Fajr prayer in Islam.