How to Perform Fajr Prayer: Mastering Fajr Prayer in Easy Steps

Do you need help understanding the details of the Fajr Prayer? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many Muslims, especially new reverts and growing children, are seeking to deepen their knowledge about this essential ritual.

This blog post will break down every step involved in performing the Fajr Salah, from preparation to conclusion, backed by authority references. Let’s understand this dawn prayer together – read on!

Understanding Fajr Prayer

Fajr prayer is a fundamental pillar of Islam, requiring Muslims to wake up early and offer their first salah of the day.

Definition of Fajr Prayer

The Fajr prayer, also known as the dawn prayer, is vital in Islam and is one of the five daily prayers. Each morning, Muslims perform two rakah fard after the two sunnah of Fajr.

It is an obligatory act of worship for all adult Muslims worldwide, and it serves as a connection to Allah SWT at the start of each day. Its performance requires followers to face the Qiblah — the direction of Mecca — demonstrating unity among believers.

In teaching younger Muslims about this crucial aspect of faith, parents are advised to introduce the Fajr prayer by age (Seven), as we have heard in the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad PBUH:

Islam advises parents to teach their children about Salah at the age of seven, based on the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad PBUH:

“‏ عَلِّمُوا الصَّبِيَّ الصَّلاَةَ ابْنَ سَبْعِ سِنِينَ وَاضْرِبُوهُ عَلَيْهَا ابْنَ عَشْرٍ ‏“

 “Teach the boy Salat when he is seven years old, and beat him (if he does not pray) when he is ten.” Jami` at-Tirmidhi 407

However, severely beating children is not permissible, as many people unfortunately do in South Asian countries.

Importance and Benefits of Fajr Prayer

As one of Islam’s five pillars, the Fajr prayer is extremely important in a Muslim’s daily life. It is performed just before sunrise, to begin the day on a spiritually peaceful and mindful note.

This early morning ritual provides numerous spiritual and mental benefits to believers.

Adhering to Fajr Salah demonstrates obedience to Allah SWT and adherence to Islamic law, both of which are important traits that ultimately pave the way to Jannah (Heaven).

“Teach a child to pray at the age of seven, and beat him for it at the age of ten.”

 “There are five prayers which Allah has prescribed on His servants. If anyone offers them, not losing any of them, and not treating them lightly, Allah guarantees that He will admit him to Paradise…”

: Sunan Abi Dawud 1420

Furthermore, regularly observing this Dawn Prayer can cultivate discipline and punctuality in your life, as it demands consistent early awakening.

Additionally, it serves as a protective shield against Jahannam (hellfire), symbolizing repentance and the pursuit of divine forgiveness at the beginning of each day.

‏ مَنْ صَلَّى الصُّبْحَ فَهُوَ فِي ذِمَّةِ اللَّهِ فَلاَ يَطْلُبَنَّكُمُ اللَّهُ مِنْ ذِمَّتِهِ بِشَىْءٍ فَيُدْرِكَهُ فَيَكُبَّهُ فِي نَارِ جَهَنَّمَ ‏”‏ ‏.‏

“Whoever prays Fajr is under Allah’s protection, so do not shortchange Allah’s rights; for anyone who does, Allah will seize him and throw him on his face into the Fire of Hell.” Muslim (657)

A study even found that Fajr prayer provided health benefits such as improved sleep architecture by inducing a split sleep pattern, reducing daytime sleepiness, and improving overall neurobehavioral function performance.

When to Perform Fajr Prayer?

Fajr prayer should be performed at the beginning of dawn, just after the start of morning twilight.

Time schedule for Fajr Prayer

The exact time for Fajr prayer varies depending on one’s location and the season. It usually starts at dawn and ends just before sunrise. Keeping precise time is crucial for you as a Muslim because it directly impacts the validity of your prayers.

To ensure accuracy, you can rely on prayer schedules issued by your local mosque. Besides that, online resources are abundant (www.www.prayertimes.org) and mobile apps (Muslim Sadiq) available to provide you with accurate prayer times.

These tools can help you consistently perform your Fajr prayer at the right time.

Here’s a general guideline for Fajr prayer time in an HTML table format:

The Daily Necessity of Fajr Prayer

The Fajr prayer is not just a religious obligation for you as a Muslim, but it is also a vital daily necessity. It creates a strong spiritual connection with Allah SWT and helps in setting the tone for the rest of your day.

Fajr prayer holds immense significance in Islam, as it is performed before sunrise when the world is still quiet and peaceful.

By waking up early and offering Fajr, you start your day with devotion and gratitude to Allah SWT, laying a foundation of spirituality and mindfulness for the hours ahead.

This act of worship strengthens their faith, cleanses their hearts, and moves them closer to Jannah (Heaven). Even the Prophet Muhammad PBUH stated in a hadith:

‏ مَنْ صَلَّى الْبَرْدَيْنِ دَخَلَ الْجَنَّةَ ‏”

 ‘Whoever prays the two cool prayers (`Asr and Fajr) will go to Paradise.’ “

 Sahih al-Bukhari 574

Preparing for Fajr Prayer

To prepare for the Fajr Prayer, face the Qibla (the direction of Mecca), and ensure you are in a state of purity by performing Wudu (ritual washing).

Facing the right direction (Qibla)

It is critical to face the correct direction, known as the Qibla, when performing the Fajr prayer. The Qibla is the direction in which Muslims pray, and it is towards the Kaaba in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. ‘(Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 393)

It is significant because it represents unity and connection with other Muslims worldwide. There are websites and apps that can help you determine the Qibla direction accurately.

Regardless of where you are, facing the Kaaba during your Fajr prayer is critical to maintaining a spiritual connection and fulfilling this important obligation.

Ensuring purity (Wudu)

It is necessary to perform Wudu before performing the Fajr prayer to ensure purity. Wudu entails cleansing specific body parts, such as the hands, face, and feet, to achieve ritual purity.

This lovely ritual also cleanses your sins, as Prophet Muhammad PBUH stated in one of his hadiths.

 يَقُولُ مَنْ تَوَضَّأَ وُضُوئِي هَذَا ثُمَّ قَامَ إِلَى الصَّلَاةِ سَقَطَتْ خَطَايَاهُ يَعْنِي مِنْ وَجْهِهِ وَيَدَيْهِ وَرِجْلَيْهِ وَرَأْسِهِ‏.‏

 “Whoever does wudu’ as I have done then gets up to pray, his sins will fall away, i.e., from his face, his hands, his feet and his head.`

 Musnad Ahmad 493

Before beginning the Fajr prayer, both men and women must perform Wudu. Muslims demonstrate their sincerity and readiness for this sacred act of worship by following these purification steps, according to Islamic law.

It is critical to remember that a proper state of purity through Wudu is required for the Fajr prayer to be valid.

Detailed Steps to Perform Fajr Prayer

To begin the Fajr prayer, make the intention to pray (Niyah), then say “Allahu Akbar” and start with the opening Takbeer.

Recite the opening supplication (Du’a of Istiftah), then Surah-al-Fatiha and another Surah or verse.

Following that, perform the bowing (Rukoo) and straighten up (Qawmah). Then perform the first prostration (Sajda), sit between two prostrations (Jalsah), and finish the second prostration.

Before beginning the second Rak’aat, continue with Jalsah-e-Istarahat. Finish with Tashahud and conclude with Tasleem.

For a detailed understanding, continue reading…

How to perform the intent (Niyah)

Begin the intention (Niyah) for Fajr Salah by making the intention in your heart to offer the Fajr prayer. While you are not required to say anything aloud, it is important to remember why you are performing this act of worship.

Remember that your intention should be solely to seek Allah SWT’s pleasure, and not for any worldly gain.

Sincere intentions are essential because they serve as the foundation for our prayers. As Muslims, we believe that every action should begin with the right intent. This simple yet profound step assists us in spiritually and mentally aligning ourselves before engaging in prayer.

Take your time and avoid rushing into the prayer, as haste may lead to a spiritual disconnection and diminish the fulfillment of the prayer.

We can ensure that our acts of worship are performed with sincerity and devotion to Allah SWT alone if we set our intentions from the start.

Starting with the opening Takbeer (Takbeer-e-Tehrima)

The Fajr prayer must begin with the opening takbeer, known as Takbeer-e-Tehrima. This is accomplished by raising both hands to one’s ears and saying “Allahu Akbar,” which translates as “Allah SWT is the Greatest.” Reference:  Mishkat al-Masabih 799

This takbeer indicates that you have entered a state of prayer and are focusing your attention solely on Allah SWT.

It is important to note that this takbeer should be said softly rather than loudly. By beginning your prayer with this declaration of Allah SWT’s greatness, you set the tone for the rest of your prayer and remind yourself of His limitless power and mercy.

Reading the opening supplication (Du’a of Istiftah)

The opening supplication, known as the Du’a of Istiftah, is an essential part of performing the Fajr prayer. It is recited at the beginning after reciting Takbeer.

This beautiful supplication sets the tone for connecting with Allah SWT before commencing the prayer. It’s a moment to express gratitude, seek forgiveness, and ask for guidance throughout the prayer.

There are around two or three Du’a of Istiftah that we find in Ahadith. But the most common among them is:

سُبْحَانَكَ اللَّهُمَّ وَبِحَمْدِكَ تَبَارَكَ اسْمُكَ وَتَعَالَى جَدُّكَ وَلاَ إِلَهَ غَيْرُكَ ‏”

“Subhanak Allahumma wa bi hamdika, wa tabarakas- muka wa ta’ala jadduka, wa la ilaha ghayruk (Glory and praise is to You, O Allah, blessed is Your Name and exalted is Your majesty, none has the right to be worshipped but You).”

Sunan Ibn Majah 806

And the other Du’a are also mentioned below

اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ كَبِيرًا وَالْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ كَثِيرًا وَسُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ بُكْرَةً وَأَصِيلاً

Allahu akbar kabiran wal humdulillahi kasiran wasubhanAllahi Bukrataun wa’asila

 Allah is truly Great, praise be to Allah in abundance. Glory be to Allah in the morning and the evening. Sahih Muslim 601

اللَّهُمَّ بَاعِدْ بَيْنِي وَبَيْنَ خَطَايَاىَ كَمَا بَاعَدْتَ بَيْنَ الْمَشْرِقِ وَالْمَغْرِبِ، اللَّهُمَّ نَقِّنِي مِنَ الْخَطَايَا كَمَا يُنَقَّى الثَّوْبُ الأَبْيَضُ مِنَ الدَّنَسِ، اللَّهُمَّ اغْسِلْ خَطَايَاىَ بِالْمَاءِ وَالثَّلْجِ وَالْبَرَدِ ‏”

O Allah! Set me apart from my sins (faults) as the East and West are set apart from each other and clean me from sins as a white garment is cleaned of dirt (after thorough washing). O Allah! Wash off my sins with water, snow and hail.)”

Sahih al-Bukhari 744

To improve your Salah focus, memorize various Du’as from the Ahadith and alternate between them, avoiding repetition. This way, your prayers remain meaningful, helping you connect deeply with Allah SWT.

So next time you perform the Fajr prayer, remember to recite this powerful opening supplication with devotion and humility.

The Du’a of Istiftah is extremely important in beginning our day with a genuine connection to our Creator, reminding us of His infinite mercy and love for His worshipers.

Remember to recite this powerful opening supplication with devotion and humility the next time you pray Fajr.

Recitation of Surah-al-Fatiha

After beginning with the opening Takbeer, the recitation of Surah-al-Fatiha is an important part of this beautiful act of worship. Reference: Book 2, Hadith 172

Surah-al-Fatiha, or “The Opening,” is the first chapter of the Holy Quran and is very important in Islamic prayers.

It comprises seven verses in which Allah SWT is praised and sought for guidance. This powerful recitation serves as a reminder of our reliance on Allah SWT. It establishes the tone for our spiritual connection during prayer.

We understand from Hadith that without reciting the Surah-al-Fatiha the prayer of the person is invalid.

‏ مَنْ صَلَّى صَلاَةً لَمْ يَقْرَأْ فِيهَا بِأُمِّ الْقُرْآنِ فَهْىَ خِدَاجٌ – ثَلاَثًا – غَيْرُ تَمَامٍ ‏”‏ 

 If anyone observes prayer in which he does not recite Umm al-Qur’an (Surah-Fatiha), It is deficient [he said this three times] and not complete.

Sahih Muslim 395a

As we recite each verse with humility and sincerity, we ponder its profound meaning and ask Allah SWT for guidance on the straight path.

Additional Surah or Verse Recitation

It is recommended that after reciting Surah Al-Fatiha, you recite another Surah or verse from the Holy Quran during the first Rakaat of Fajr prayer. This results in a more complete and satisfying prayer experience. Reference:  Sahih Muslim 396c

Choose Surahs or verses for recitation in your prayer based on personal significance, strengthening your spiritual connection.

Remember that the purpose is seeking guidance and blessings from Allah SWT through His divine book, not merely fulfilling a requirement.

By gradually adding new Surahs or verses to your Fajr prayer routine, you can deepen your understanding of the Quran’s teachings and gain a greater appreciation for its wisdom. This practice enhances your spiritual journey and fosters a closer relationship with Allah SWT.

Performing the Bowing (Ruku)

Bowing (Ruku) in the Fajr prayer is a significant step, involving bending from a standing position, placing your hands on your knees, and keeping your back parallel to the ground. This act of submission showcases humility and acknowledges the greatness of Allah SWT.

While in Ruku, it’s recommended to recite specific supplications, praising Allah SWT’s glory and seeking His forgiveness. Ensuring proper form during Ruku is crucial for the validity of your prayer.

There are approximately five supplications found in the Ahadith, but we will only describe the three that are easy to remember below:

1. سُبْحَانَ رَبِّيَ الْعَظِيمِ : Subhana Rabi’al Azeem. (“Glory be to my Lord Almighty”) Sahih Muslim 772

2. “‏ سُبْحَانَكَ وَبِحَمْدِكَ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ أَنْتَ ‏”: Subhanaka wabihamdika la’ilaha illa anta (“Glory be to You and praise be to You, there is no god but You”) Sahih Muslim 485

3.  ‏”‏ سُبْحَانَ ذِي الْجَبَرُوتِ وَالْمَلَكُوتِ وَالْكِبْرِيَاءِ وَالْعَظَمَةِ ‏”‏  Subhana zil jabarooti walmalakooti walkibriya’i walazmati” : “Glory be to the Possessor of greatness, the Kingdom, grandeur and majesty.” Sunan Abi Dawud 873

So make sure you bend from your waist while keeping your back straight and avoid leaning too far forward or backward. Performing this act of devotion with sincerity and focus contributes to a meaningful Fajr prayer experience.

Straightening up from the bowing (Qawmah)

After completing the bowing position in the Fajr prayer, it is critical to properly straighten up before proceeding to the next step. This is known as Qawmah, and it requires you to stand upright and still, allowing every bone to return to its proper position.

It is obligatory to say “Sami’ Allaahu liman hamidah” while raising your back during Qawmah. While standing tall, recite “Rabbanaa wa lakal-hamd” (O our Lord! And all praise is due to You) (Reference:Sahih al-Bukhari 690

Maintaining proper posture during this transition is essential for remaining focused and reverent throughout the prayer. Remember that each movement in the Fajr prayer has meaning, allowing you to connect deeply with Allah SWT during this sacred time of day.

A Sahabi Did Something Special During Qawmah:

Once Prophet Muhammad PBUH was leading the Salah in congregation, and when he said “ Sami’ Allaahu liman hamidah” one of his companions said: “Rabbana wa laka l-hamdu, hamdan kathiran taiyiban mubarakan fihi” (O our Lord! All the praises are for You, many good and blessed praises).

When the prayer was finished, the Prophet PBUH asked “Who said these words?” The companion replied that it was him.

Then the Prophet Muhammad PBUH said that he saw over thirty angles competing to write those words first.

 (Sahih al-Bukhari 799)

So, if you want angels to act like that, then don’t miss out on this action!

First Prostration (Sajda)

You will place your forehead, nose, hands, knees, and toes on the ground during the first prostration (Sajda) in the Fajr prayer. It’s a moment of surrender to Allah SWT and humility. While bowing, try to recite “Subhaana Rabbiyal-Alaa” (My Rubb the Supreme is without flaws) at least three times to glorify Him. (Reference: Riyad as-Salihin 1175)

A few things to remember during Sujood:

• Nose and forehead should touch the ground during Sujood. (Sahih al-Bukhari 812 )
• Both hands should be parallel to the shoulders.  (Jami` at-Tirmidhi 270)
• It is also correct to keep both hands next to the ears. (Sunan Abi Dawud 734)
• Both the palms and knees should touch the ground. (Sunan Abi Dawud 726)
• Your elbows should not touch the floor. (Sahih Muslim 494)
• Your stomach and chest should not touch your thighs. (Sunan Abi Dawud 730)
• Toes should face the Qibla, and both feet should be straight (touching the floor) (Sahih al-Bukhari 828)

Prophet Muhammad PBUH said:

“When one of you prostrates himself he must not kneel in the manner of camel, but should put down his hands before his knees.” (Sunan Abi Dawud 840)

Remember to follow all the points supported by Hadith, especially the first, to avoid displeasing Allah SWT.

Now during prostration you can also recite a few more Du’a that Prophet Muhammad PBUH used to recite:

1. سُبْحَانَكَ اللَّهُمَّ رَبَّنَا وَبِحَمْدِكَ، اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي‏.‏ : “Subhanaka l-lahumma Rabbana wa bihamdika; Allahumma ghfir li.’ (Exalted [from unbecoming attributes] Are you O Allah our Lord, and by Your praise [do I exalt you]. O Allah! Forgive me).  Sahih al-Bukhari 794

2.‏ سُبُّوحٌ قُدُّوسٌ رَبُّ الْمَلاَئِكَةِ وَالرُّوحِ ‏”‏ ‏‏”: (Subbuhin Quddusur Rabbu’l Mala’ikati War’ruh)  All Glorious, All Holy, Lord of the Angels and the Spirit.  (Sahih Muslim 487a)

3 . “‏ سُبْحَانَكَ وَبِحَمْدِكَ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ أَنْتَ ‏”: Subhanaka wabihamdika la’ilaha illa anta (“Glory be to You and praise be to You, there is no god but You”) Sahih Muslim 485

This physical act of submission is intended to strengthen your bond with Allah SWT and to remind you of His greatness.

After the first prostration, raise your head and say “Allah-u-Akbar,” then briefly sit on your left foot before continuing with this beautiful prayer.

Remember that every action you take during the Fajr prayer has meaning and contributes to strengthening your relationship with Allah SWT.

Sitting between two prostrations (Jalsah)

It is critical to sit between two prostrations, known as Jalsah, during the Fajr prayer. This position follows the first prostration but before the second.

To properly perform Jalsah, sit on your left foot, with your right foot upright and your toes pointing towards the Qiblah. Sunan Abi Dawud 734

During Jalsah, men and women’s sitting postures may differ slightly. Place your hands on your thighs or knees, with your right palm on the right thigh and your left palm on the left.

Your right elbow should be on your right thigh, and your left hand should be spread out over your left knee. Point the index finger of your right hand towards the Qiblah and fix your gaze on it during supplication in this position.

Jalsah allows for specific supplications and recitations to Allah SWT in order to seek forgiveness and blessings. It is an important part of correctly performing the Fajr prayer, ensuring that each step is carried out with mindfulness and devotion.

Prophet Muhammad PBUH used to recite These Two Du’a during Jalsah:

1. رَبِّ اغْفِرْ لِي رَبِّ اغْفِرْ لِي : (Rabbigh firli) O my Lord forgive me.”

2. ‏ اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَارْحَمْنِي وَعَافِنِي وَاهْدِنِي وَارْزُقْنِي ‏”‏: (Allahumm-aghfir li, warhamni, wa-hdini, wa’afini,warzuqni.) “O Allah, forgive me, have mercy on me, guide me, heal me, and provide for me.” (Abu Dawud Book 2, Hadith Number 849)

Second Prostration (Sajda)

The second prostration, known as Sajda, is an essential part of the Fajr prayer. In this position, you bow down and place your forehead on the ground in total submission to Allah SWT.

At this point, recite “Subhaana Rabbiyal-Alaa” (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) at least three times. The second prostration serves as a powerful reminder of our Creator’s humility, and allows us to seek forgiveness and blessings from Him. Reference: Sunan an-Nasa’i 1046

Remember to rest your backbone in this position to ensure that your Sajda is performed correctly and with the utmost devotion.

Continuing the Fajr Prayer

After completing the first rak’aat, rest briefly in a sitting position before moving on to the second rak’aat. Keep reading to learn how to conclude your Fajr prayer with the declaration of faith and salutation.

Resting period (Jalsah-e-Istarahat)

During the Fajr prayer, there is a resting period known as Jalsah-e-Istarahat. After completing the first prostration, it is permissible to sit for a short while before standing up for the second Rakaat. (Reference)

This brief moment of rest allows you to gather your thoughts and regain focus before continuing the prayer. It also serves as a reminder to be present in the worshipful act and connect deeply with your Creator.

Take this time to reflect on your intentions and offer supplications for forgiveness and blessings from Allah SWT. The resting period helps create a sense of tranquility during Salah and enhances the overall spiritual experience.

Second Rak’aat

We continue our prayer after the first prostration in the second Rak’aat of the Fajr prayer. We sit briefly after rising from prostration, with our left foot bent and beneath us, before standing up to begin the second Rak’aat.

It is recommended that you fold your hands over your chest and recite specific verses from the Holy Quran during this Rak’aat. This part of the prayer is just as important as the first Rak’aat and should be done with concentration and devotion.

Remember to carefully follow each step to ensure that your Fajr prayer is performed correctly per the Islamic teachings.

The Declaration of Faith (Tashahud)