The Fajr prayer, also called the dawn prayer, is one among the five obligatory Salah (prayers) in Islam, signifying the commencement of a new day, providing Muslims the occasion to begin their day with recall and devotion of Allah.
This particular article provides an comprehensive overview of the method for carrying out the Fajr prayer, comprising of the intention (niyat), the Qunut supplication, and delves into the benefits of this essential act of devotion.
### Understanding the Fajr Prayer
The Fajr prayer is composed of two Rak'ahs (units of prayer) and serves as the inaugural of the five daily prayers, taking place at dawn prior to sunrise. It consists of two Rak'ahs: the Sunnah (non-mandatory yet highly suggested) and the Fard (mandatory) prayer.
### Intention for Fajr Prayer (Niyat)
The niyyah for the Fajr prayer is made internally, not uttered. It requires an internal determination to carry out the prayer with sincerity for the sake of Allah. For the Fajr prayer, the intention can be articulated as:
"I plan to conduct the two Rak'ahs of the obligatory (or Sunnah, if performing the Sunnah Rak'ahs) Fajr prayer for the sake of Allah, while the Qibla."
### Guidelines for Fajr Prayer
1. **Beginning the Prayer (Takbiratul Ihram)**:
- Commence by adopting an upright posture and orienting towards the Qibla.
- Raise your hands in the direction of your ears and voice "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest), indicating the initiation of the prayer.
2. **Reading of Al-Fatiha and Another 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 initial Rak'ah and Surah Al-Falaq or An-Nas in the next 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 finishing the two Rak'ahs, sit for the Tashahhud.
- Articulate the Tashahhud supplication.
5. **Ending the Prayer (Tasleem)**:
- Bring the prayer by rotating your head to the right and then to the left, saying "Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah" (Peace and mercy bacaan sujud sahwi of Allah be upon you) on occasion.
### Qunut Supplication in Fajr Prayer
The Qunut supplication is at times uttered during the Fajr prayer, particularly in the subsequent Rak'ah just ahead of or following the Ruku. The Qunut is a supplication for counsel, patience, and relief from hardship. The next is one of the frequent 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 Discipline**:
- Performing the Fajr prayer shows a Muslim's dedication and loyalty to their faith, as it obliges awakening early and commencing the day with devotion and remembrance of Allah.
2. **Psychological and Mental Advantages**:
- The serenity and peace encountered throughout the Fajr prayer hold significant effects on one's spiritual and emotional well-being, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.
3. **A Witness for the Believer**:
- The Fajr prayer functions as a witness by the angels. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The two Rak'ahs (units) of the Fajr prayer are superior to this globe and all it contains."
4. **Safeguard Throughout the day**:
- Engaging in the Fajr prayer in congregation serves as a way of safeguarding the believer. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) confirmed that the one who joins in the Fajr prayer in congregation is placed under the shield of Allah.
### Conclusion
The Fajr prayer holds a pivotal position in a Muslim's daily schedule, representing the beginning of the day with divine connection and reflection. The Qunut supplication provides an extra layer of spiritual depth, petitioning guidance and assistance from Allah. Comprehending and implementing the procedure, intention, and supplications of the Fajr prayer can greatly boost a believer's spiritual adventure, bringing tranquility, rigor, and a heightened awareness of the divine presence into their daily life. The virtues of the Fajr prayer underscore its significance and the ample spiritual rewards it provides, making an indispensable practice for Muslims around the world.