The Fajr (Dawn) Prayer; A Full Guide, Expressing Intentions, Qunut Invocation

Fajr prayer, also referred to as the dawn prayer, is one among the five obligatory Salah (prayers) in Islam, marking the commencement of a new day, granting Muslims the opportunity to commence their day with remembrance and prayer of Allah.

This particular guide offers an comprehensive overview regarding the procedure for carrying out the Fajr prayer, including doa sholat dzuhur the intention (niyat), the Qunut supplication, and delves into the virtues of this integral ritual of devotion.

### Grasping the Fajr Prayer

The Fajr prayer comprises two Rak'ahs (units of prayer) and functions as the inaugural of the five daily prayers, taking place at dawn prior to sunrise. It consists of two Rak'ahs: the Sunnah (non-mandatory yet firmly recommended) and the Fard (mandatory) prayer.

### Niyyah for Fajr Prayer (Niyat)

The intention for the Fajr prayer is made internally, not spoken. It entails an inner intent to perform the prayer genuinely for the purpose of Allah. In the case of the Fajr prayer, the intention can be expressed as:

"I plan to perform the two Rak'ahs of the obligatory (or Sunnah, if performing the Sunnah Rak'ahs) Fajr prayer for the sake of Allah, facing the Qibla."

### Steps for Fajr Prayer

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

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

- Raise your hands in the direction of your ears and say "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest), signifying the start of the prayer.

2. **Reading of Al-Fatiha and An additional Surah**:

- After the initial supplication, voice Surah Al-Fatiha (the initial chapter of the Quran).

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

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

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

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

4. **Tashahhud**:

- After concluding the two Rak'ahs, sit for the Tashahhud.

- Recite the Tashahhud supplication.

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

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

### Qunut Supplication in Fajr Prayer

The Qunut supplication is occasionally recited during the Fajr prayer, specifically in the subsequent Rak'ah simply prior to or following the Ruku. The Qunut is a supplication for guidance, patience, and relief from suffering. The following 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 Symbol of Dedication and Self-control**:

- Performing the Fajr prayer shows a Muslim's dedication and loyalty to their faith, as it mandates getting up early and starting the day with devotion and remembrance of Allah.

2. **Psychological and Mental Gains**:

- The serenity and serenity encountered throughout the Fajr prayer hold deep influences on one's spiritual and psychological well-being, creating a positive attitude for the rest of the day.

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

- The Fajr prayer functions as a testimony by the angels. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) declared: "The two Rak'ahs (units) of the Fajr prayer are greater to this world and all it includes."

4. **Safeguard Throughout the day**:

- Performing in the Fajr prayer in congregation functions as a method of ensuring the safety of the believer. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) asserted that the one who participates in the Fajr prayer in congregation is placed under the shield of Allah.

### Conclusion

The Fajr prayer holds an important role in a Muslim's daily schedule, symbolizing the start of the day with divine connection and reflection. The Qunut supplication provides an additional layer of spiritual depth, petitioning guidance and help from Allah. Grasping and implementing the procedure, intention, and supplications of the Fajr prayer can considerably enhance a believer's spiritual journey, providing tranquility, self-control, and a heightened awareness of the divine presence into their daily life. The virtues of the Fajr prayer highlight its significance and the ample spiritual rewards it bestows, transforming it into an indispensable practice for Muslims across the world.