As-Salat (Prayers) & Times Of Salat in Islam JSS2 Islamic Studies Lesson Note

 AS-SALAT (PRAYERS) IN ISLAM  Types and times of salat (prayers)

As-Salat means prayers in Islam. It is a special way of talking to Allah and showing love and respect. Muslims pray five times every day. These prayers help people stay close to Allah and remember Him throughout the day.

Why Do Muslims Pray?

Muslims pray because:

• It is a way to thank Allah
• It helps them feel calm and peaceful
• It reminds them of Allah’s greatness
• It keeps them away from bad things
• It is a command from Allah

The Five Daily Prayers

1. Fajr Prayer (Dawn Prayer)

• Time: Before sunrise
• Number of Units (Rak’ahs): 2
• Special Time: When the sky starts to get light
• Meaning: Waking up and starting the day with Allah

2. Dhuhr Prayer (Noon Prayer)

• Time: Just after the sun passes its highest point
• Number of Units (Rak’ahs): 4
• Special Time: Middle of the day
• Meaning: Remembering Allah during work and daily activities

3. Asr Prayer (Afternoon Prayer)

• Time: Late afternoon
• Number of Units (Rak’ahs): 4
• Special Time: When shadows become longer
• Meaning: Staying strong in faith during busy times

4. Maghrib Prayer (Sunset Prayer)

• Time: Just after the sun sets
• Number of Units (Rak’ahs): 3
• Special Time: When day turns to night
• Meaning: Thanking Allah for the day’s blessings

5. Isha Prayer (Night Prayer)

• Time: After dark
• Number of Units (Rak’ahs): 4
• Special Time: Before going to sleep
• Meaning: Ending the day with thoughts of Allah

Other Special Types of Prayers

Jumu’ah Prayer (Friday Prayer)

• Special group prayer on Friday
• Replaces Dhuhr prayer for men
• Held in the mosque
• Includes a special sermon (khutbah)

Tarawih Prayer

• Special prayers during Ramadan
• Prayed at night after Isha
• Extra prayers to earn more blessings
• Helps Muslims feel close to Allah during Ramadan

Eid Prayers

• Special prayers on two important days
• Eid al-Fitr (after Ramadan)
• Eid al-Adha (during Hajj season)
• Celebrated with family and community

How to Prepare for Prayer

1. Make Wudu (Ablution)
   1. Wash hands, mouth, nose, face
   2. Wash arms
   3. Wipe head
   4. Wash feet
   5. Clean body and get ready to pray
2. Find a Clean Place
   1. Use a prayer mat
   2. Face towards Kaaba in Mecca
   3. Wear clean clothes
   4. Be quiet and calm

Steps of Prayer

1. Stand straight
2. Raise hands and say “Allahu Akbar”
3. Read the first chapter of Quran
4. Bow down
5. Stand up again
6. Prostrate (put forehead on ground)
7. Sit and make special prayers
8. Finish with saying “Peace be upon you”

Important Things About Salat

• Pray on time
• Be clean
• Focus on Allah
• Pray with love and respect
• Try to understand the meaning

Benefits of Salat

• Helps mental peace
• Keeps body healthy
• Brings family together
• Teaches discipline
• Connects person with Allah
• Helps forget worldly problems

Conclusion

Salat is a beautiful way to:

• Talk to Allah
• Show love and respect
• Stay on the right path
• Feel peaceful
• Be a good Muslim

Note to Students: Prayer is a special gift from Allah. It helps us remember what is truly important in life.

Remember: Pray with your heart, not just your body!