Purpose

Ṣalāḥ, the Arabic word for prayer, is the second of five pillars in the Islamic faith. It is an obligation upon every Muslim and a form of worship with multiple facets – physical, mental, and spiritual. The mandatory prayers consist of five specific prayers every day – each being performed at its prescribed time.

Though Ṣalāḥ is technically an obligation, it is received as a gift by Muslims. It is an act that exhibits a unique sweetness, captures a distinct fragrance, and purifies the heart – all to the one who embodies its true essence, purpose, and gravity. To the one who has embodied its exceptional value, it is an escape from the weight of this world which yields treasures. To the contrary, for one that lacks the perception of its unparalleled value, it is merely seen as an obligation and sometimes even a burden. The difference between the two lies in the understanding of our reality in this world, a vivid realization of the existence of life after this one, and the ability to absorb the power of the words and supplications that reside within the Ṣalāḥ.

True and sincere prayer is one that completes its purpose and objectives, both inwardly and outwardly, not simply going through the motions without presence of heart. In order for the prayer to be fulfilled, we must allow it to purify our hearts, to keep us away from sin, and to enrich our lives in the remembrance of Allāh.

Purification of the heart is the ultimate religious objective of prayer. A prayer will only be acceptable to Allāh if it is done with sincerity, reverence, awareness, and repentance. Our prayers should cleanse the heart of every spiritual disease such as envy, malice, and arrogance.

“He has certainly succeeded who purifies himself and mentions the name of his Lord and prays.”

Sūrah Al-A’lā [87:14-15]

The parable of the prayer is that of a running river in which we cleanse our hearts five times a day.

The Messenger of Allāh ﷺ said, “The example of the five prayers is that of a river running at the door of one of you in which he cleanses himself five times a day.”

[Muslim]

When we are preparing for prayer, we should keep this image in mind so that our awareness is focused on the goal of attaining a pure heart. Related to this inward purification is the purification from sin, as prayer is among the greatest good deeds for which we expiate our sins.

Allāh has commanded us to worship and obey Him with sincerity, out of reverence, love, and thankfulness.

“And they are ordered to serve Allāh only, keeping religion pure for Him, to remain upright, and to establish worship and to pay the alms-due. That is true religion.”

Sūrah Al-Bayyinah [98:5]

The Prophet ﷺ said, “Prayer is light.”

[Muslim, Tirmidhī, and Ibn Mājah]

The Prophet ﷺ also said, “The example of the five [obligatory] prayers is like a fast stream running in front of the house of one of you in which he bathes five times daily.”

[Muslim & Aḥmad]