The Fajr (Dawn) Prayer; A Complete Explanation, Expressing Intentions, Qunut Prayer

The Fajr prayer, also referred to as the dawn prayer, is one among the five obligatory Salah https://www.merdeka.com (prayers) in Islam, commemorating the commencement of a new day, providing Muslims the chance to commence their day with recollection and devotion of Allah.

The following comprehensive guide gives an extensive elaboration concerning the procedure for performing the Fajr prayer, which includes the intention (niyat), the Qunut supplication, as well as delves into the merits of this crucial practice of devotion.

### Understanding the Fajr Prayer

The Fajr prayer consists of two Rak'ahs (units of prayer) and serves as the first of the five daily prayers, taking place at dawn preceding sunrise. It comprises two Rak'ahs: the Sunnah (non-mandatory yet firmly advised) and the Fard (mandatory) prayer.

### Intention for Fajr Prayer (Niyat)

The niyyah for the Fajr prayer is made within one's heart, not uttered. It requires an internal intent to conduct the prayer genuinely for the cause of Allah. For the Fajr prayer, the intention can be expressed as:

"I purpose to conduct the two Rak'ahs of the obligatory (or Sunnah, if participating in the Sunnah Rak'ahs) Fajr prayer for the intention of Allah, while the Qibla."

### Steps for Fajr Prayer

1. **Initiating the Prayer (Takbiratul Ihram)**:

- Initiate by assuming an upright position as orienting towards the Qibla.

- Raise your hands in the direction of your ears and utter "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest), marking the commencement of the prayer.

2. **Reading of Al-Fatiha and Another one Surah**:

- After the opening supplication, articulate Surah Al-Fatiha (the primary chapter of the Quran).

- Follow it with the reading of another Surah or a few verses from the Quran, usually Surah Al-Ikhlas in the initial Rak'ah and Surah Al-Falaq or An-Nas in the second Rak'ah.

3. **Ruku (Bowing) and Sujood (Prostration)**:

- Complete the Rak'ah with Ruku, uttering "Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem" (Glory be to my Lord, the Almighty) three times.

- Perform the two Sujoods in every Rak'ah, voicing "Subhana Rabbiyal A'la" (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) 3 times in every prostration.

4. **Tashahhud**:

- After completing the two Rak'ahs, assume a seated position for the Tashahhud.

- Articulate the Tashahhud supplication.

5. **Concluding the Prayer (Tasleem)**:

- End the prayer by turning your head to the right and then to the left, saying "Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah" (Peace and mercy of Allah be upon you) each occasion.

### Qunut Supplication in Fajr Prayer

The Qunut supplication is occasionally voiced during the Fajr prayer, particularly in the second Rak'ah merely prior to or pursuing the Ruku. The Qunut is a supplication for guidance, perseverance, and relief from hardship. The next is one of the frequent 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. **A Sign of Dedication and Discipline**:

- Conducting the Fajr prayer shows a Muslim's devotion and commitment to their faith, as it obliges getting up early and initiating the day with prayer and remembrance of Allah.

2. **Psychological and Mental Advantages**:

- The serenity and tranquility encountered throughout the Fajr prayer possess profound effects on one's spiritual and psychological well-being, creating a constructive attitude for the remaining of the day.

3. **A Witness for the Believer**:

- The Fajr prayer acts 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 globe and all it includes."

4. **Safeguard Throughout**:

- Participating in the Fajr prayer in congregation serves as a way of safeguarding the believer. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) confirmed that the one who participates in the Fajr prayer in congregation is placed under the safeguard of Allah.

### Conclusion

The Fajr prayer holds a central role in a Muslim's daily ritual, representing the beginning of the day with celestial connection and reflection. The Qunut supplication provides an extra layer of spiritual depth, requesting guidance and assistance from Allah. Grasping and implementing the procedure, intention, and supplications of the Fajr prayer can significantly enhance a believer's spiritual adventure, bringing tranquility, rigor, and an elevated awareness of the divine presence into their daily life. The virtues of the Fajr prayer highlight its significance and the ample spiritual rewards it offers, transforming it into an integral practice for Muslims across the world.