The Salah (daily prayer) is a fundamental pillar of Islam. It is one of the five pillars, making it a mandatory obligation for all Muslims. It is a unique act of worship because it combines both spiritual and physical components. When a person stands for prayer, their attention is turned away from the worldly life and toward a spiritual realm where they connect with Allah and recite His verses. While the person is spiritually connected, they also move their body by standing, bowing, and prostrating to match the words spoken.

With Ramadan coming soon, it is the perfect time to reflect on our worship and improve our relationship with Salah. Many Muslims use the holy month to establish a more consistent habit of praying on time and improving their spiritual connection with the Creator.

Allah mentions the importance of prayer multiple times in the Quran:

“But those who hold fast to the Book and establish prayer – indeed, We will not allow to be lost the reward of the pious.” (Surah Al-Araf, 7:170)

“Your ally is none but Allah and [therefore] His Messenger and those who have believed – those who establish prayer and give zakah, and they bow [in worship].” (Surah Maidah, 5:55)

“And to establish prayer and fear Him. And it is He to whom you will be gathered.” (Surah Al-Anam, 6:72)

The Command of Salah: Why We Pray 5 Times a Day

The history of how Salah times were established is recorded in the Seerah (biography) of the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam). During his life, he went on a miraculous journey called Al-Isra wal-Miraj (The Night Journey and Ascension). The Prophet (ﷺ) traveled from Makkah to Jerusalem and then ascended through the heavens.

It was during this journey that Allah gave the commandment for the 50 daily prayers. The Prophet (ﷺ) went back and forth between Prophet Musa (as) and Allah until the requirement was reduced to five daily prayers. Remarkably, these five prayers remained equivalent in reward to 50 prayers.

Anas ibn Malik reported:

“Fifty prayers were obligated upon the Prophet (ﷺ) when he was taken on his night journey. Then, it was reduced until it was set at five and an announcement was made: ‘O Muhammad, My word is never changed, so these five prayers will be counted as fifty.’” (Tirmidhi)

How to Improve Focus and Khushu in Salah

One of the best benefits of prayer is the peace it brings to the heart. However, many struggle with maintaining focus. To deepen your connection, remind yourself Whom you are praying to. You are standing before Allah, your Creator and Master. We can improve our Khushu (focus) by learning the 99 Names of Allah.

Take a moment to reflect on some of these Names and their impact on your life:

Ar-Rahman: The Most Merciful

Ar-Raheem: Bestower of Mercy

Al-Wadud: The Most Loving

As-Salam: The Giver of Peace

Al-Azeez: The All-Mighty

Al-Hadi: The Guide

The Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) said:

“Allah has 99 names, anyone who memorizes them will enter Jannah (Paradise).” (Bukhari)

The Meaning Behind the Movements of Prayer

Another way to connect is to focus on your physical movements. Every time you say Allahu Akbar, you are changing positions. This phrase reminds you that Allah is greater than your stress, your work, and your worries.

When you go into Rukhu (bowing) and Sujood (prostration), you are physically submitting to Allah. This submission is a powerful reminder to stay humble in your life outside of the five daily prayers.

Understanding Surah Al-Fatihah

We recite Surah Al-Fatihah a minimum of 17 times a day across the five daily prayers. Understanding the translation of this Surah is essential for a powerful Salah.

Translation of Surah Al-Fatihah:

1. In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
2. All the praises and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of all that exists.
3. The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
4. The Only Owner of the Day of Recompense.
5. You Alone we worship, and You Alone we ask for help.
6. Guide us to the Straight Way.
7. The Way of those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, not the way of those who earned Your anger, nor of those who went astray.

When you ponder this translation, the prayer becomes a conversation with Allah rather than just a ritual.

Conclusion: Preparing for Ramadan through Salah

The command for Salah is a gift from Allah to the believers. By learning about its history and the meaning of the verses we recite, we can find true peace. As we prepare for the Ramadan 2026 season, let us commit to making our Salah a priority.

May Allah provide for us from places we did not expect. May Allah allow us to learn His Names, to call on Him by them, and to enter Jannah. Ameen.

By Human Appeal

Canada