Fajr prayer, also referred to as the dawn prayer, is among the five obligatory Salah (prayers) in Islam, commemorating the commencement of a new day, providing Muslims the opportunity to start their day with remembrance and prayer of Allah.
The following comprehensive guide gives an in-depth elaboration regarding the procedure for performing the Fajr prayer, which includes the intention (niyat), the Qunut supplication, and delves into the virtues of this integral practice of devotion.
### Grasping the Fajr Prayer
The Fajr prayer consists of two Rak'ahs (units of prayer) and serves as the initial of the five daily prayers, taking place at dawn prior to sunrise. It comprises two Rak'ahs: the Sunnah (non-mandatory yet firmly recommended) and the Fard (mandatory) prayer.
### Niyyah for Fajr Prayer (Niyat)
The intention for the Fajr prayer is made within one's heart, not uttered. It requires an mental determination to perform the prayer genuinely for the cause of Allah. In the case of the Fajr prayer, the intention can be stated as:
"I intend to carry out the two Rak'ahs of the obligatory (or Sunnah, if performing the Sunnah Rak'ahs) Fajr prayer for the intention of Allah, while the Qibla."
### Steps for Fajr Prayer
1. **Initiating the Prayer (Takbiratul Ihram)**:
- Start by assuming an upright position as orienting towards the Qibla.
- Raise your hands towards your ears and utter "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest), indicating the commencement of the prayer.
2. **Repetition of Al-Fatiha and An additional Surah**:
- After the opening supplication, recite Surah Al-Fatiha (the first chapter of the Quran).
- Follow it with the recital of another Surah or several verses from the Quran, typically Surah Al-Ikhlas in the first 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, voicing "Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem" (Glory be to my Lord, the Almighty) thrice.
- Perform the two Sujoods in every Rak'ah, expressing "Subhana Rabbiyal A'la" (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) 3 times in every single prostration.
4. **Tashahhud**:
- After finishing the two Rak'ahs, assume a seated position for the Tashahhud.
- Voice the Tashahhud supplication.
5. **Ending the Prayer (Tasleem)**:
- Conclude the prayer by moving your head to the right and then to the left, uttering "Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah" (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you) each occasion.
### Qunut Supplication in Fajr Prayer
The Qunut supplication is at times recited during the Fajr prayer, specifically in the subsequent Rak'ah merely ahead of or pursuing the Ruku. The Qunut is a supplication for guidance, patience, and relief from hardship. The next is one of the typical 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. https://www.merdeka.com/jateng/qada-dan-qadar-adalah-takdir-dalam-islam-pahami-perbedaannya-23616-mvk.html **A Sign of Dedication and Self-control**:
- Performing the Fajr prayer illustrates a Muslim's dedication and commitment to their faith, as it requires awakening early and initiating the day with worship and remembrance of Allah.
2. **Psychological and Mental Benefits**:
- The peace and tranquility felt throughout the Fajr prayer possess deep effects on one's spiritual and mental well-being, establishing a positive attitude for the remaining of the day.
3. **A Testimony for the Believer**:
- The Fajr prayer functions as a testimony by the angels. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated: "The two Rak'ahs (units) of the Fajr prayer are superior to this world and all it holds."
4. **Protection Throughout the Day**:
- Participating in the Fajr prayer in congregation serves as a way of protecting the believer. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) affirmed that the one who joins in the Fajr prayer in congregation falls under the safeguard of Allah.
### Conclusion
The Fajr prayer holds a central role in a Muslim's daily routine, representing the commencement of the day with celestial connection and reflection. The Qunut supplication brings an extra layer of spiritual depth, requesting guidance and support from Allah. Grasping and carrying out the procedure, intention, and supplications of the Fajr prayer can considerably enhance a believer's spiritual journey, providing serenity, self-control, and a higher awareness of the divine presence into their daily life. The virtues of the Fajr prayer highlight its significance and the plentiful spiritual rewards it bestows, transforming it into an indispensable practice for Muslims throughout the world.