New in Islam

[Alina]

hi,

My name is Alina and I'm from Belgium.
I recently became muslim and I doing my first ramazan this year. I also started to read the Qur'an, at least everyday 1 part.

Now my question is, I would like to know how to pray, how do i start on a pray and how the rules going for a woman.

thanks
Alina

[Wolfn]

Salaam Alikum, Ramadan Mubarak, and welcome to Islam, alhumdillah.

I converted (or "reverted" as we say) in May earlier this year, so this is my first Ramadan too.


As for praying, I'm a guy so I don't know how a woman prays, but I'm sure some sisters here can help you.


So, when did you convert? How old were you when you converted, etc?

[Alina]

salaam Wolfn,

Ramazan mubarak to you as well.
I just recently converted abt 2 month ago, and i'm 30 years young. It's just recently so i have much to learn And Inch'Allah i will learn much from my bro and sis on this forum.

Allah Hafiz
Alina

[miqdadhasan]

Best book is islamic belief and teachings but there are topics on how to pray... will have to dig around

i found this site

http://www.islamicacademy.org/html/Learn_Now/English/Salah_In_Audio.htm

[Arsalan]

Asalamulaikum sister, welcome to Islam.

may Allah strengthen you and protect you.

Whilst you learn how to pray, and how to fast. I would just like to advise you to continue Praying to Allah in your HEART , thanking him, asking for guidance and mercy and all good things. and remembering him on your toungue and doing all good things for His sake.


Here are some useful sites

www.islambasics.com (http://www.islambasics.com) - books on islam, books for New muslims too ( click right tab)

www.iprofess.com (http://www.iprofess.com) - lots of resources for new muslims.

Some links taken from the later site:

How to Pray (http://anwary-islam.com/life/salah.htm) and Specifications for Women (http://anwary-islam.com/life/salah-women.htm) According to the Hanafi school.

How to Make Wudhu (Ablution) (http://www.islamicity.com/Mosque/salat/salat6.htm)
How to Make Salat (http://www.islamicity.com/Mosque/salat/salat9.htm)


Is there a muslim sisters circle in your locality, where you can gain female companionship and advice on how to perform basic duties of our faith.?##..


....

[Alina]

salaam,

thank you Arsalan and miqdadhasan for this wonderfull links.
May Alah reward you for this.
now i can start learning and Inch'allah very soon start praying.

[Arsalan]

salaam,

thank you Arsalan and miqdadhasan for this wonderfull links.
May Alah reward you for this.
now i can start learning and Inch'allah very soon start praying.


Wailkum asalam ( peace and blessings be upon you )

Your welcome sis, Barak-Allah ( may good come upon you).

Best of all, it would be beneficial for you to find sisters who can show you how to pray in real life. Have you any friendly and nice muslim acquaitainces? I know friendly and nice is hard to find nowadays, but by luck you could have someone...

[JamilahZ]

Salam Alina

Just a friendly tip... while you learn to pray, don't let anyone tell you that women pray differently then men. Muhammad (saws) said, 'pray as you see me pray'.

JZ

[salahuldin786]

Actions For Performing Wudu (Ablution)

Perform completely the wudu, imitating the method commanded by Allah (SWT) in the Qu'ran:

Allah (SWT) said, "O you who believe! When you intend to offer prayer, wash your faces and your hands (fore-arms) up to the elbows, rub (by passing wet hands over) your heads, and (wash) your feet up to ankles…" (Al-Ma'idah 5:6)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "Allah does not accept prayer without purification ..." (Sahih - Muslim and others)

Making Niyyah (Intention) for Wudu
Before starting the actions of wudu it is necessary to make niyyah. Make niyyah that the act of performing wudu is for the purpose of purity only. Niyyah should be made in the heart because it is an action of the heart and not of the tongue. Niyyah by words is not approved by the Prophet (SAW).

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, "Verily the actions are by intention and there is for everyone only what he intended..." (Sahih - Fath-ul-Baaree and Muslim)

At-Tasmiyyah (Mentioning Allah's Name)
After niyyah, start wudu by saying aloud or silently:

"Bismillah"

(In the Name of Allah)

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, "There is no wudu for him who does not mention Allah's name upon it." (Sahih - Ibn Maajah, At-Tirmithee, Abu Dawood, and others)

Washing Hands Up to the Wrist
Start by using the left hand to wash the right hand up to the wrist making sure that no part of the hand is left dry, especially between each finger. Repeat three times. Then use the right hand to wash the left hand up to the wrist making sure that no part of the hand is left dry, especially between each finger. Repeat three times.

Humran (RA) narrates that Uthman (RA) called for water to make wudu and washed his hands three times... then said, "I saw Rasoolullah (SAW) make wudu just as I have made wudu." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Washing Mouth

Take water into the right hand and wash the mouth by moving the water around inside the mouth making sure to reach the back of the throat. Repeat three times.

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, "When you make wudu then wash your mouth." (Sahih - Al-Baihaqee)

Sniffing Water Into the Nose and Then Ejecting It
Put water into the right palm, sniff the water into the nose and breath it into its backmost part, then eject the water from the nose with the fingers on the left hand. Repeat three times.

The Prophet (SAW) said, "When one of you makes wudu then let him enter water into his nose, then expel it." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Dawood)

Abd Khair (RA) said, "We were sitting looking towards Ali (RA) - as he made Wudu - and he entered into his mouth a handful of water with his right hand and washed his mouth and nose, then expelled it from his nose with his left hand - he did that three times, then said, 'Whoever would like to see the way of purification of Rasoolullah (SAW) - then this is his purification.'" (Sahih - Ad-Daarimee)

Washing the Face

Wash the face, from ear to ear, and forehead to chin making sure that no part of the face is left dry. Repeat three times.

Allah (SWT) said, "O you who believe! When you intend to offer prayer, wash your faces and your hands (fore-arms) up to the elbows, rub (by passing wet hands over) your heads, and (wash) your feet up to ankles…" (Al-Ma'idah 5:6)

Humran ibn Abaan (RA) narrates that Uthman (RA) called for water to make wudu and so mentioned the way in which the Prophet (SAW) made wudu. Humran (RA) said, "Then he washed his face three times." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari, Muslim)

Running Water Through the Beard with the Fingers
Take a handful of water into the right hand and enter it below the chin and rub it through the beard making sure to get all the way down to the roots of the hair.

Anas (RA) narrates that the Prophet (SAW), when he made wudu, used to take a handful of water and enter it below his chin and rub it through his beard and said, "This is what my Lord - the Great and Exalted - has ordered me to do." (Sahih - Abu Dawood, Al-Baihaqee, Al-Haakim)

Washing the Hands and Arms Including the Elbows
Use the left hand to wash the right hand, forearm and elbow, up to and including the elbow making sure that no part of the hand, arm and elbow is left dry, especially between the fingers. Repeat three times. Then use the right hand to wash the left hand, forearm and elbow making sure that no part of the hand, arm and elbow is left dry, especially between the fingers. Repeat three times.

Allah (SWT) said, "O you who believe! When you intend to offer prayer, wash your faces and your hands (fore-arms) up to the elbows, rub (by passing wet hands over) your heads, and (wash) your feet up to ankles…" (Al-Ma'idah 5:6)

Nu'aim ibn Mijmar (RA) said, "I saw Abu Hurairah make wudu - he washed his face and completed the wudu, then washed his right hand until he reached the upper arm, then his left hand till he reached the upper arm" - then in the end of the Hadith he said: "This is how I saw Rasoolullah (SAW) make wudu.'" (Sahih - Muslim)

Wiping the Head *

Wipe the head with the fingers of both hands, starting from the forehead, taking them to the nape of the neck, then bring them back to the forehead. Do this one time.

Allah (SWT) said, "O you who believe! When you intend to offer prayer, wash your faces and your hands (fore-arms) up to the elbows, rub (by passing wet hands over) your heads, and (wash) your feet up to ankles…" (Al-Ma'idah 5:6)

The Prophet (SAW) wiped his head with his two hands, moving them forwards and backwards - beginning with the front of the head and (wiping) with them up to his nape then he (SAW) returned them to the place from which he began. (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Muslim, At-Tirmithee, and others)

*Wiping Over the Turban

Men who wear a head piece that is difficult to remove (such as a turban) should wipe over the head covering. Do this one time.

Amr ibn Umayyah (RA) said, "I saw Rasoolullah (SAW) wipe over his turban and leather socks." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and others)

*Wiping Over the Turban and Forelock

If part of the head is uncovered and it is normally so, then it is preferable to wipe over the part that is uncovered along with the turban. Do this one time.

Shu'bah (RA) said, "The Messenger of Allah (SAW) made wudu and wiped over the front portion of his scalp, his turban and his socks. (Sahih - Muslim)

*Woman's Head Cover

As for the woman's head cover, it is also permissible to wipe over it. This would be the case of a woman that has no private place for wudu (i.e. where non-Mahram men or non-Muslim women may see them). Do this one time.

Umm Salamah (RA) used to wipe over her head cover . (See'al-Mughnee' - Ibn Mundhir)

Wiping the Ears

Wipe the ears by inserting the tips of the index fingers into the ears, twist them around the folds of the ears then pass the thumb behind the ears from the bottom, upwards. Wipe the ears with the water used for the head. Do this one time.

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, "The two ears are a part of the head." (Sahih - At-Tirmithee, Abu Dawood, and Ibn Maajah)

From Abdullah ibn Amr (RA) - about the way of performing wudu - he (SAW) said, "Then he (SAW) wiped his head and entered his two forefingers into his ears and wiped the backs of his ears with his thumbs". (Sahih - Abu Dawood, An-Nasaa’ee, Ibn Maajah, Ibn Khuzaimah)

Ar-Rabee bint Mu'awwidh (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW), "Wiped his head with water remaining in his hand". (Hasan - Abu Dawood and others)

Washing the Feet and Ankles*

Use the right hand to wash the right foot up to and including the ankle making sure no part of the foot is left dry, especially between the toes. Use the right hand pinkie finger to wash between the toes starting on the right side of the foot. Repeat three times. Then use the left hand to wash the left foot up to and including the ankle making sure no part of the foot is left dry, especially between the toes. Use the left hand pinkie finger to wash between the toes starting on the right side of the foot. Repeat three times.

Allah (SWT) said, "O you who believe! When you intend to offer prayer, wash your faces and your hands (fore-arms) up to the elbows, rub (by passing wet hands over) your heads, and (wash) your feet up to ankles…" (Al-Ma'idah 5:6)

"Ibn Umar (RA) said, "Rasoolullah (SAW) fell behind us and then came upon us during a journey, then we found him and it was time for 'Asr - so we began to make Wudu and wipe over our feet, so he (SAW) called out at the top of his voice, 'Woe to the ankles from the Fire. (two or three times)'" (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

"Al-Mustaurad (RA) said, "When the Prophet (SAW) made wudu he would enter the water between his toes with his little finger." (Sahih - Abu Dawood, At-Tirmithee, and Ibn Maajah)

*Wiping Over the Foot Covering

Wiping over the top of the foot covering with wet hands instead of washing the feet is allowed, provided that the foot covering has been put on after performing wudu that included washing the feet. Wipe the top of each foot one time, using the right hand for the right foot and the left hand for the left foot. This is allowed for 24 hours from the time of wudu, if not traveling. After this time the feet must be washed. It is allowed for 3 days from the time of wudu, if traveling. After this time the feet must be washed.

Amr ibn Umayyah (RA) said, "I saw Rasoolullah (SAW) wipe over his turban and leather socks." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and others)

Drying the Body-Parts After Wudu
Drying the body-parts after wudu is a desirable action.

Aishah (RA) said, "Rasoolullah (SAW) had a cloth which he used to dry himself with after making wudu." (Sahih - An-Nasaa'ee)

How Many Times For Each Action in Wudu
Each detail of wudu has been performed by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) once, twice or three times (except wiping of head and ears, these should only be done once). Washing each body-part once is obligatory - and the second and third washings are Sunnah - and it is better to wash three times so as to follow the Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW).

Ibn Abbas (RA) said, "Rasoolullah (SAW) made wudu (washing each part) once." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari)

Abdullah ibn Zaid (RA) narrates that the Prophet (SAW) made wudu (washing each part) twice. (Sahih - Al-Bukhari)

Uthman (RA) recorded that he (SAW) washed each of the parts three times. (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Beginning With the Right

Always wash the right hand before the left hand. Always wash the right foot before the left foot. Always wash the right side before the left side.

Aisha (RA) said, "Rasoolullah (SAW) used to like to begin with the right in putting on shoes, combing his hair, in purification and in all of his affairs." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari, Muslim, and others)

Reading Du'as (Supplications) After Wudu
After wudu, first say aloud or silently:

"Ash hadu an la ilaha illal lahu wah dahu la shareeka lahu wa ash hadu an-na muhammadan 'abduhu wa rasulhu"

(I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and I testify that Muhammad (SAW) is His slave and Messenger)

Then say aloud or silently:

"Allah hum maj 'alnee minat taw-wabeena, waj 'alnee minal muta tah-hireen."

(O Allah, make me one of those who constantly repents to You and of those who purify themselves)

Rasoolullah (SAW) said, "None of you makes wudu and completes the wudu then says: "Ash hadu an la ilaha illal lahu wah dahu la shareeka lahu wa ash hadu an-na muhammadan 'abduhu wa rasulhu" except that all eight Gates of Paradise are opened for him - so that he enters by whichever he pleases." (Sahih - Muslim, Abu Dawood, At-Tirmithee, An-Nasaa'ee, Ibn Maajah)

"Allah hum maj 'alnee minat taw-wabeena, waj 'alnee minal muta tah-hireen." (Sahih - At-Tirmithee)

[salahuldin786]

Dress Requirements for Salah

For prayer to be valid the private areas must be covered with a loose garment so as not to show the privates. Therefore, a man should be covered loosely from the shoulders to the knees. It is prohibited for the lower garment to hang past the ankles, even when not praying. A woman should loosely cover herself completely from head to toe except her face. It is better that she covers her hands with gloves or clothe. The top of her feet must be covered either with a long dress, socks or whatever. She must cover the top of her feet otherwise her prayer will not be accepted.

"And tell the believing women to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things), and protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts, etc.) and not to show off their adornment except only that which is apparent (like palms of hands or one eye or both eyes for necessity to see the way, or outer dress like veil, gloves, head-cover, apron, etc.), and draw their veils all over Juyubihinna (i.e. their bodies, faces, necks and bosoms, etc.) and not to reveal their adornment except to their husbands, their fathers, their husband’s fathers, their sons, their husband’s sons, their brothers or their brother’s sons, or their sister’s sons, or their (Muslim) women (i.e. their sisters in Islam), or the (female) slaves whom their right hands possess, or small children who have no sense of the shame of sex. And let them not stamp their feet so as to reveal what they hide of their adornment…: (An-Nur 24:31)

Aisha (RA) used to say: "When the Verse: "They should cover (draw their veils over) their bodies, faces, necks, and bosoms etc." (An-Nur 24:31) was revealed, (the ladies) cut their waist sheets at the edges and covered their heads and faces with those cut pieces of cloth." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari)

"O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks (veils) all over their bodies (i.e. screen themselves completely except the eyes of one eye to see the way). That will be better, that they should be known (as free respectable women) so as not to be annoyed…" (Al-Ahzab 33:59)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "None of you should offer Salat in a single garment that does not cover one’s shoulders." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "The part of an Izar (lower-half body cover) which hangs below the ankles is in the Fire." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "The Salat of a woman, who has reached puberty, is not accepted unless she is wearing a Khimar." (Sahih - Al-Khamsa except An-Nasaa’ee)

A Khimar is a piece of cloth with which a woman covers her head and neck area. It means that the whole body of a woman should be loosely covered including head hair. - Bulugh Al-Maram

Narrated Umm Salama (RA): She asked the Prophet (SAW), "Can a woman pray in a long dress and a veil without wearing a lower garment?" He (SAW) replied, "If the long dress is ample and covers the surface of her feet." (Mawquf - Abu Dawud)

As for the face, it is Sunnah for her to uncover it during the prayer if there are no non-related men around her. As for the feet, it is obligatory upon her to cover them according to the majority of the scholars. Some scholars allow the feet to be uncovered but the majority say it is prohibited to uncover them and she must cover them. Abu Dawud recorded that Umm Salama (RA) was asked about a woman praying in a headcovering and long gown and she said, "There is no harm in that as long as the gown covers the top of her feet." So covering the feet is better and safest under all circumstances. As for the hands, their situation is simpler. If she uncovers them, there is no harm. If she covers them, there is no harm. Some scholars say it is better to cover them. And from Allah comes guidance to the correct path. - Shaikh ibn Baz (rahmatullahi alay)

The prayer is not valid unless the "private area" is covered, which for the prayer of the adult, free woman implies everything but her face. She is not required to cover her face during the prayer unless there are non-related (i.e. non-mahram) men around her. She must then cover her face except to her husband and her male relatives [within the prohibited degrees of marriage, see An-Nur 24:31] i.e., mahram. - Shaikh ibn Uthaimin

Locating and Facing the Qiblah (Prayer Direction)

Wherever a person is in the world, they should face towards the Ka'bah when they are going to pray. The Ka'bah is the sacred mosque in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Facing towards the Qiblah is a very important condition in the performance of prayer. However, if the person is in a place such as a desert, jungle, unknown strange city or a place where he/she does not know the direction of the Qiblah, they should try their best to find out the direction of the Qiblah from others. However, if it is not possible then they should use their best judgment and face in a direction which they think is that of the Qiblah and Allah (SWT) will accept his prayer, Insha-Allah.

It is important to start the prayer facing the direction of the Qiblah and it does not matter if his direction changes while he is praying (i.e. in a ship, a train, or an airplane, etc.).

NOTE: Today, a compass is available which gives the direction of the Qiblah. In strange places and airplanes it is a useful instrument to have.

Allah (SWT) said, "...Surely, We shall turn you to a Qiblah (prayer direction) that shall please you, so turn your face in the direction of Al-Masjid-al-Haram (at Makkah). And wheresoever you people are, turn your faces (in prayer) in that direction..." (Al-Baqarah 2:144)

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, "When you stand for prayer, perform wudu perfectly, then face the Qiblah and say takbir." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari, Muslim, and Siraaj)

On the Ground, and on Mats
If the ground is not too hot, dirty or hard, there is no need for a mat when praying. Prostrating on the bare ground is the best prostration.

"His (SAW) Companions (RU) would pray with him in the intense heat, so when one of them could not press his forehead against the ground, he would spread his robe and prostrate on that." (Sahih - Muslim and Abu Awaanah)

Establishing the Sutrah (A Tall Object Just Beyond the Place of Prostration, Within Which Nothing Should Pass)
Place tall anything just beyond the place of prostration. Things that can be used are: a wall, bed, tall pillow, tall diaper bag, tall purse, tall stick, tree, etc. Anything that breaks the path between the person praying and someone who "may" need to pass in front. It's best to pray facing a wall, bed, or any other type of tall object, so that there will be no need for someone to pass directly in front. Do not mind anyone who passes beyond the sutrah.

The Prophet (SAW) said, "Do not pray except towards a sutrah, and do not let anyone pass in front of you, but if someone continues (to try to pass) then fight him, for he has a companion (i.e. a Shaitan) with him." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Ahmad)

"When he (SAW) prayed (in an open space where there was nothing to use as a sutrah) he would plant a spear in the ground in front of him and pray towards it with the people behind him." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "When one of you places in front of him something such as the stick on the end of a saddle, he should pray and not mind anyone who passes beyond it." (Sahih - Muslim and Abu Dawood)

Making Niyyah for Salah

After facing the Qiblah the person should make niyyah. Niyyah is made within the heart and mind. The person should think about the particular fard (obligatory) or Sunnah (supererogatory) prayer they intend to perform. They should NOT utter the words of niyyah aloud, as this is not an authentic practice or approved by the Prophet (SAW).

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) used to say: "All actions are by intentions, and every man shall have what he intended." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari, Muslim and others)

[hammerofthehuns]

as salaam aleikum sis, mashaAllah on ur reversion
start praying now sis,even tho its probably not going 2 be quite right theres no blame on u for what u dont know, but getting in2 the routine is really important and ull soon have it inshaAllah and its a great feeling when u do:up:

[Rie_Maya]

hi,

My name is Alina and I'm from Belgium.
I recently became muslim and I doing my first ramazan this year. I also started to read the Qur'an, at least everyday 1 part.

Now my question is, I would like to know how to pray, how do i start on a pray and how the rules going for a woman.

thanks
Alina


Salaams
Marsha'Allah for your reversion - may Allah swt bless you .

I am also a revert lol as many are on here...

Can I recommend buying this book:

My prayer book
Darussalam
ISBN: 9960897206

It's a very cheap book but worth so much - they also do a wudu book in the same series...

Ramadan Mubarak

I know that intially if all you can do is recite al-Fatiha and do the movements ending with salaams that is acceptable - so I was told 14years ago and then try to learn as soon as possible...inshaAllah

[Alina]

Dress Requirements for Salah

For prayer to be valid the private areas must be covered with a loose garment so as not to show the privates. Therefore, a man should be covered loosely from the shoulders to the knees. It is prohibited for the lower garment to hang past the ankles, even when not praying. A woman should loosely cover herself completely from head to toe except her face. It is better that she covers her hands with gloves or clothe. The top of her feet must be covered either with a long dress, socks or whatever. She must cover the top of her feet otherwise her prayer will not be accepted.

"And tell the believing women to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things), and protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts, etc.) and not to show off their adornment except only that which is apparent (like palms of hands or one eye or both eyes for necessity to see the way, or outer dress like veil, gloves, head-cover, apron, etc.), and draw their veils all over Juyubihinna (i.e. their bodies, faces, necks and bosoms, etc.) and not to reveal their adornment except to their husbands, their fathers, their husband’s fathers, their sons, their husband’s sons, their brothers or their brother’s sons, or their sister’s sons, or their (Muslim) women (i.e. their sisters in Islam), or the (female) slaves whom their right hands possess, or small children who have no sense of the shame of sex. And let them not stamp their feet so as to reveal what they hide of their adornment…: (An-Nur 24:31)

Aisha (RA) used to say: "When the Verse: "They should cover (draw their veils over) their bodies, faces, necks, and bosoms etc." (An-Nur 24:31) was revealed, (the ladies) cut their waist sheets at the edges and covered their heads and faces with those cut pieces of cloth." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari)

"O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks (veils) all over their bodies (i.e. screen themselves completely except the eyes of one eye to see the way). That will be better, that they should be known (as free respectable women) so as not to be annoyed…" (Al-Ahzab 33:59)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "None of you should offer Salat in a single garment that does not cover one’s shoulders." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "The part of an Izar (lower-half body cover) which hangs below the ankles is in the Fire." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "The Salat of a woman, who has reached puberty, is not accepted unless she is wearing a Khimar." (Sahih - Al-Khamsa except An-Nasaa’ee)

A Khimar is a piece of cloth with which a woman covers her head and neck area. It means that the whole body of a woman should be loosely covered including head hair. - Bulugh Al-Maram

Narrated Umm Salama (RA): She asked the Prophet (SAW), "Can a woman pray in a long dress and a veil without wearing a lower garment?" He (SAW) replied, "If the long dress is ample and covers the surface of her feet." (Mawquf - Abu Dawud)

As for the face, it is Sunnah for her to uncover it during the prayer if there are no non-related men around her. As for the feet, it is obligatory upon her to cover them according to the majority of the scholars. Some scholars allow the feet to be uncovered but the majority say it is prohibited to uncover them and she must cover them. Abu Dawud recorded that Umm Salama (RA) was asked about a woman praying in a headcovering and long gown and she said, "There is no harm in that as long as the gown covers the top of her feet." So covering the feet is better and safest under all circumstances. As for the hands, their situation is simpler. If she uncovers them, there is no harm. If she covers them, there is no harm. Some scholars say it is better to cover them. And from Allah comes guidance to the correct path. - Shaikh ibn Baz (rahmatullahi alay)

The prayer is not valid unless the "private area" is covered, which for the prayer of the adult, free woman implies everything but her face. She is not required to cover her face during the prayer unless there are non-related (i.e. non-mahram) men around her. She must then cover her face except to her husband and her male relatives [within the prohibited degrees of marriage, see An-Nur 24:31] i.e., mahram. - Shaikh ibn Uthaimin

Locating and Facing the Qiblah (Prayer Direction)

Wherever a person is in the world, they should face towards the Ka'bah when they are going to pray. The Ka'bah is the sacred mosque in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Facing towards the Qiblah is a very important condition in the performance of prayer. However, if the person is in a place such as a desert, jungle, unknown strange city or a place where he/she does not know the direction of the Qiblah, they should try their best to find out the direction of the Qiblah from others. However, if it is not possible then they should use their best judgment and face in a direction which they think is that of the Qiblah and Allah (SWT) will accept his prayer, Insha-Allah.

It is important to start the prayer facing the direction of the Qiblah and it does not matter if his direction changes while he is praying (i.e. in a ship, a train, or an airplane, etc.).

NOTE: Today, a compass is available which gives the direction of the Qiblah. In strange places and airplanes it is a useful instrument to have.

Allah (SWT) said, "...Surely, We shall turn you to a Qiblah (prayer direction) that shall please you, so turn your face in the direction of Al-Masjid-al-Haram (at Makkah). And wheresoever you people are, turn your faces (in prayer) in that direction..." (Al-Baqarah 2:144)

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, "When you stand for prayer, perform wudu perfectly, then face the Qiblah and say takbir." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari, Muslim, and Siraaj)

On the Ground, and on Mats
If the ground is not too hot, dirty or hard, there is no need for a mat when praying. Prostrating on the bare ground is the best prostration.

"His (SAW) Companions (RU) would pray with him in the intense heat, so when one of them could not press his forehead against the ground, he would spread his robe and prostrate on that." (Sahih - Muslim and Abu Awaanah)

Establishing the Sutrah (A Tall Object Just Beyond the Place of Prostration, Within Which Nothing Should Pass)
Place tall anything just beyond the place of prostration. Things that can be used are: a wall, bed, tall pillow, tall diaper bag, tall purse, tall stick, tree, etc. Anything that breaks the path between the person praying and someone who "may" need to pass in front. It's best to pray facing a wall, bed, or any other type of tall object, so that there will be no need for someone to pass directly in front. Do not mind anyone who passes beyond the sutrah.

The Prophet (SAW) said, "Do not pray except towards a sutrah, and do not let anyone pass in front of you, but if someone continues (to try to pass) then fight him, for he has a companion (i.e. a Shaitan) with him." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Ahmad)

"When he (SAW) prayed (in an open space where there was nothing to use as a sutrah) he would plant a spear in the ground in front of him and pray towards it with the people behind him." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

The Prophet (SAW) said, "When one of you places in front of him something such as the stick on the end of a saddle, he should pray and not mind anyone who passes beyond it." (Sahih - Muslim and Abu Dawood)

Making Niyyah for Salah

After facing the Qiblah the person should make niyyah. Niyyah is made within the heart and mind. The person should think about the particular fard (obligatory) or Sunnah (supererogatory) prayer they intend to perform. They should NOT utter the words of niyyah aloud, as this is not an authentic practice or approved by the Prophet (SAW).

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) used to say: "All actions are by intentions, and every man shall have what he intended." (Sahih - Al-Bukhari, Muslim and others)


salaam,

Thank you so much for this, it really help me alot to start my prayers, Inch'Allah now i can learn much from it. May Allah reward you for this.

Maybe I looked over it, but what is niyyah.
Also one more question, when I like to read the Holy Qur'an (arabic-Eglish translated) should I couver myself compleetly or is it not needed.

Alina

[Saeed Al-Muslim]

As Salaamu Alaikum,

My sister welcome to the Deen (way of life) of the Haq (truth), and the family of the true believers.

I have posted this up elsewhere, but I'll post here for your benefit as well, Insha'Allaah (God willing) it'll can be of some benefit to you as well.

As Salaamu Alaikum,

I've not come across one book that satisfies me completely. So I have a number of books/literature and presentation/multimedia materials.

Salaat: The Islamic Prayer from A to Z by Mamdouh N. Mohamed. ISBN: 0-9652877-2-6
A Guide To Salat (Prayer) By Muhammad Abdul Karim Saqib. ISBN: 9960-717-17-8
The Prophet's Prayer Described By Shaikh Naasir-ud-Deen Al-Albaani. ISBN: 0-9533019-1-5
The Abridgement of the Prophets Prayer Described (http://www.mediafire.com/?exbc9tzogxg) By Shaikh Naasir-ud-Deen Al-Albaani.
IslamWay Flash Presentation (Beginners) (http://www.mediafire.com/?ddxmjdiexmd)
IslamWay Flash Presentation (Advance) (http://www.mediafire.com/?1b43nsxbgzi)

Ma'aSalaama

From: Anybody know of any good websites/book on how to pray salaat (http://www.ummah.com/forum/showthread.php?p=2135054#post2135054)

Ma'aSalaama

[yasmin20]

Assalam alakium my sister,

Firstly i would like to say welcome to Islam and Allah swt has guided you and blessed you .

I'm a revert too this website helped me learn my Salah
http://www.islamicfinder.org/prayer/index.html (http://www.islamicfinder.org/prayer/index.html)

I hope this helps my sister it makes me sooo happy when i hear about reverts i cant explain the feeling i have inside MashaAllah you are truly blessed to be guided my sister

W'Salam

[Abu 'Abdullaah]

Assalaamu Alaikum,

First of all, let me welcome you to Islaam. You have made the right choice!

There are a couple of books that you can read online which describe the wudhu (ablution) and the prayer. Click on the following links:

A Description of How the Prophet :saw: Made Wudhu (http://www.qss.org/articles/wudoo/wudoo_ToC.html)
The Prophet's :saw: Prayer Described (http://www.qss.org/articles/salah/toc.html)

The books are quite long and I suggest you read them through carefully and maybe write down your own notes to make it easy for references. If there's anything else you would like to know, do not hesitate to ask as I'm sure the brothers and sisters here will help as much as possible insha'Allaah.

[Skilly]

Assalamu alaikum wr wb.

I think what the sister need's is something simple and concise.

She wan't to learn how to pray.

Let's not overburden her with information at this moment.

[hammerofthehuns]

the sister just needs the books from Darusalaam like Rie Maya said, their easy 2 follow, i think their made for kids, ive still got mine, the wudu one looks like its been thru the washing machine a few times!

[elji]

salaam Wolfn,

Ramazan mubarak to you as well.
I just recently converted abt 2 month ago, and i'm 30 years young. It's just recently so i have much to learn And Inch'Allah i will learn much from my bro and sis on this forum.

Allah Hafiz
Alina

haha i like that!

Welcome to the right path. Just remember follow islam in moderation..not in extreme. :)

Read the Quran with translation its pretty simple to follow. Remember Islam is ther to make life as easy as possible for you.. :)

[Alina]

haha i like that!

Welcome to the right path. Just remember follow islam in moderation..not in extreme. :)

Read the Quran with translation its pretty simple to follow. Remember Islam is ther to make life as easy as possible for you.. :)


yep I'm reading the quran whit arabic and English translation. I was wondering whit my sisters here in Belgium we had discussion going on on the fact then when we read in de quran we must cover ourself or not, some say it have to, some say it's not needed so is little bit confusing like so. Anyone can help me out on this one.

[Alina]

the sister just needs the books from Darusalaam like Rie Maya said, their easy 2 follow, i think their made for kids, ive still got mine, the wudu one looks like its been thru the washing machine a few times!



Salaam brother,

yes you r right, that can be very usefull, do you think i can buy this here in some Islamic bookstore, or can i read them on the net as well.

[hammerofthehuns]

u wanna get the book sis, cos at first ull need 2 refer 2 it when ur making wudu, and in ur salat, but it should be quite easy 2 find inshaAllah, like the sister said its by Darusalaam publishers, in walthamstow, uk. but u should get them in most good Islamic bookshops,i just realised ur in Belgium so actually im not 2 sure if ur gonna be able 2 find them out there or not.
there will be other books but they might have inauthentic things in them so best 2 get these books inshaAllah.
i think mine are in the attic but their roughly half the size of a4 and ones green and the others orange and their called my wudu book and my prayer book or something like that.

[hammerofthehuns]

yep I'm reading the quran whit arabic and English translation. I was wondering whit my sisters here in Belgium we had discussion going on on the fact then when we read in de quran we must cover ourself or not, some say it have to, some say it's not needed so is little bit confusing like so. Anyone can help me out on this one.

yes sis, u should wear a hijab and jilbab in front of men who u are eligible to marry, ie other than ur brothers, father uncle etc.

[Alina]

yes sis, u should wear a hijab and jilbab in front of men who u are eligible to marry, ie other than ur brothers, father uncle etc.


Salaam brother,

Thank you for your all information, it was really helpfull to me.

your sis,
Alina

[HelpingHand]

Asslamo Allaikum Sister,

Welcome to the family of 1.5 billion believers.

It is indeed blessings of Allah to have guided you to His Ways.

In my humble & limited experience with the Reverts, it can be overwhelming in the beginning as everyone is trying to share information with you, it is best for you to team-up with a local Sister so learning prayers etc. can be made a little simpler & easier Insha’Allah.

I am going to overwhelm you with a whole bunch of information but things you will need are right here at your finger-tips, Insha'Allah...

You have taken the first step in the journey of a 1000 miles.

Fundamental Resources of Islam:

Full English Translation of the Qur’aan by a contemporary Scholar (Mufti Taqi Usmani) [PDF]:
http://www.central-mosque.com/quran/...mufti_taqi.pdf

Full English Tafseer (Ma'ariful Qur'aan): (This is a DETAILED COMMENTARY)

http://www.islamibayanaat.com/EnglishMarefulQuran.htm

Full English Translation of Riyadus-Saleheen (2 Volumes of Authentic Ahadeeth) [PDF]: This is a collection of the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (Sallaho Alaihe Wassallam)

http://www.central-mosque.com/sunnah...een_bewley.pdf


Shamail At-Tirmidhi (A necessary guide for all Muslims in adopting the lifestyle of Rasul-ullah Sallaho Alaihe Wassallam)
http://www.central-mosque.com/sunnah/index.htm


Detailed method & postures for Wudhu, Tahara, Ghusl & Salah (PDF book):
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/Fiqh_of_Salah.pdf

The Laws of Menstruation,Postnatal Bleeding, & Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/detbleeding.pdf

Detailed Account of Prayer (Hanafi Madhab)
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/Prayer.htm

The Sunna Prayers Related to the Obligatory Prayers: A Detailed Exposition
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/sunfardh.htm
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/sunobli.htm

The Fiqh of Voluntary (Nafl) Prayers:
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/fiqhnafl.htm

Differences in salah between men and women (Hanafi Fiqh)
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/menwmdiff.htm

Detailed account of fasting:
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/Fasting.htm

[Alina]

Asslamo Allaikum Sister,

Welcome to the family of 1.5 billion believers.

It is indeed blessings of Allah to have guided you to His Ways.

In my humble & limited experience with the Reverts, it can be overwhelming in the beginning as everyone is trying to share information with you, it is best for you to team-up with a local Sister so learning prayers etc. can be made a little simpler & easier Insha’Allah.

I am going to overwhelm you with a whole bunch of information but things you will need are right here at your finger-tips, Insha'Allah...

You have taken the first step in the journey of a 1000 miles.

Fundamental Resources of Islam:

Full English Translation of the Qur’aan by a contemporary Scholar (Mufti Taqi Usmani) [PDF]:
http://www.central-mosque.com/quran/...mufti_taqi.pdf

Full English Tafseer (Ma'ariful Qur'aan): (This is a DETAILED COMMENTARY)

http://www.islamibayanaat.com/EnglishMarefulQuran.htm

Full English Translation of Riyadus-Saleheen (2 Volumes of Authentic Ahadeeth) [PDF]: This is a collection of the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (Sallaho Alaihe Wassallam)

http://www.central-mosque.com/sunnah...een_bewley.pdf


Shamail At-Tirmidhi (A necessary guide for all Muslims in adopting the lifestyle of Rasul-ullah Sallaho Alaihe Wassallam)
http://www.central-mosque.com/sunnah/index.htm


Detailed method & postures for Wudhu, Tahara, Ghusl & Salah (PDF book):
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/Fiqh_of_Salah.pdf

The Laws of Menstruation,Postnatal Bleeding, & Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/detbleeding.pdf

Detailed Account of Prayer (Hanafi Madhab)
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/Prayer.htm

The Sunna Prayers Related to the Obligatory Prayers: A Detailed Exposition
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/sunfardh.htm
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/sunobli.htm

The Fiqh of Voluntary (Nafl) Prayers:
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/fiqhnafl.htm

Differences in salah between men and women (Hanafi Fiqh)
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/menwmdiff.htm

Detailed account of fasting:
http://www.central-mosque.com/fiqh/Fasting.htm

Salaam brother,

It's ok, you are not overwelming me whit this, I am very happy to receive so much information on Islam. I was searching on the net and found information but not as detailed as you sending me now it is :up:. Once again thank you and may Allah reward you for this.

your sister

[`asiya]

hi,

My name is Alina and I'm from Belgium.
I recently became muslim and I doing my first ramazan this year. I also started to read the Qur'an, at least everyday 1 part.

Now my question is, I would like to know how to pray, how do i start on a pray and how the rules going for a woman.

thanks
Alina

yep I'm reading the quran whit arabic and English translation. I was wondering whit my sisters here in Belgium we had discussion going on on the fact then when we read in de quran we must cover ourself or not, some say it have to, some say it's not needed so is little bit confusing like so. Anyone can help me out on this one.


As salamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi sister, alhamdulillah congratulations on your reversion to Islam :D alhamdulillah. one thing to remember when people tell you something is from Islam, is to ask them what the evidence for that is from the Quran and hadith, then you can go and look it up, and check thats true or ask your local imam for the evidence from those sources insha Allah.

I dont know of any proof from the Quran and sahih hadith that says that a woman should cover her hair when she reads the Quran, but Allah knows best. may Allah keep your deen strong and guide you always on the truth amin