Guide · 7 min read
For new learners and parents teaching their children, here is a clear, gentle walkthrough of the daily prayer (Salah / Namaz) according to the Shia school of thought (Fiqh e Jafria).
This is a simple overview to help you picture the flow of the prayer. For complete and personalised guidance: including the precise rulings of wudhu, timings and recitation: we warmly recommend learning with a qualified teacher.
Before you begin
- Taharah (purity): ensure your body, clothing and place of prayer are clean.
- Wudhu (ablution): wash the face and forearms, then wipe the head and feet as prescribed.
- Qiblah: face the direction of the Holy Ka’bah in Makkah.
- Niyyah (intention): intend, in your heart, the specific prayer you are about to perform for the sake of Allah.
The steps of the prayer
1. Takbiratul Ihram
Raise your hands and say اَللهُ أَكْبَر (Allahu Akbar: Allah is the Greatest), entering the prayer.
2. Qiyam & Qira’ah
Standing, recite Surah al-Fatihah followed by another surah (such as Surah al-Ikhlas).
3. Ruku‘
Bow, placing the hands on the knees, and glorify Allah: Subhana Rabbiyal ‘Azimi wa bihamdih.
4. Sujud
Prostrate twice, with the forehead resting on a permissible surface (such as turbah / natural earth), glorifying Allah: Subhana Rabbiyal A’la wa bihamdih.
5. Tashahhud & Salam
After the required units (rak’at), sit for the tashahhud, sending blessings upon the Prophet (s) and his household, and conclude with the salam.
““Establish prayer for My remembrance.” (Surah Ta-Ha 20:14)
Number of rak’at
Fajr has 2 units, Dhuhr and ‘Asr have 4 each, Maghrib has 3, and ‘Isha has 4. Learning the details correctly is the surest way to pray with confidence and peace.
Our Ahkaam & Wajibaat teachers guide students through every step, gently and thoroughly, book a free trial to begin.