How to Pray Salah, Step by Step
Praying Salah (Salat) is one of the fundamental acts of worship in Islam. It is a direct way for Muslims to connect with Allah and seek guidance and blessings. Below are step-by-step instructions for performing the five daily prayers:
Before You Start:
Ensure you are in a state of ritual purity by performing ablution (wudu) or, if needed, a full bath (ghusl) before starting the prayer.
Select a clean and quiet area to perform your prayers. Ensure the area is free from distractions and impurities.
1. Fajr
2. Dhuhr
3. Asr
4. Maghrib
5. Isha
Stand facing the Kaaba in Mecca with feet shoulder-width apart.
Raise both hands to the ears and say "Allahu Akbar" (God is the Greatest). This marks the beginning of the prayer. Recite Surah Al-Fatiha (Chapter 1) in every unit of prayer. After Al-Fatiha, recite any other surah or portion of the Quran in each unit of prayer. While saying "Allahu Akbar," bow down at the waist, keeping the back straight and head level with the back. Rise from bowing, saying "Sami' Allahu Liman Hamidah" (Allah hears those who praise Him). Say "Allahu Akbar" and prostrate, touching your forehead, nose, both palms, both knees, and toes to the ground. After the first prostration, sit briefly before going into the second prostration. Say "Allahu Akbar" and perform the second prostration. After the second prostration, stand up for the next rak'ah or complete the prayer depending on the number of rak'ahs for that specific prayer. In the final sitting, recite the Tashahhud, bearing witness to the oneness of Allah and the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him). Turn your head to the right and say "As-Salamu 'Alaikum wa Rahmatullah" (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you) to conclude the prayer.
Recitation: For each unit (rak'ah) of prayer, recite specific verses from the Quran after Surah Al-Fatiha during the standing position.
Consistency: Perform these prayers consistently, following the prescribed times for each prayer as per Islamic tradition.
Seek Knowledge: If you are new to Salah, consider seeking guidance from a knowledgeable person or a local mosque to assist you in learning the correct way to perform Salah.
