All praise and gratitude belong solely to Allah, who has blessed us with the opportunity to gather in peace and witness another Jummah. We express our gratitude to Him and seek His forgiveness, protection, and guidance. As believers, we recognize that those whom Allah guides are truly guided, and those who are left to stray have no one to guide them. May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the final prophet, his family, his companions, and all who steadfastly follow the righteous path until the Day of Judgment.
The Call to Faith and Fear of Allah
Brothers and sisters, Allah instructs us in Surah Al-Imran (3:102): “O you who have believed, fear Allah as He should be feared, and do not die except in a state of submission to Him.” This verse reminds us of the importance of striving to live and die as Muslims, surrendering fully to the will of Allah. As believers, our duty is to uphold Islam with sincerity and devotion, as Allah states in Surah Al-Imran (3:19): “Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam.”
The Obligation of Prayer (Salat)
After declaring faith in Allah and His Messenger, the next essential duty is to observe the five daily prayers. This command is emphasized in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:43), where Allah says, “And establish prayer and give Zakat and bow with those who bow [in worship and obedience].” Throughout the Qur’an, the command for Salat (prayer) is frequently paired with Zakat (charity), highlighting its importance as a cornerstone of a Muslim’s faith.
The distinction between a believer and a non-believer is underscored in the Hadith reported by Buraidah (may Allah be pleased with him), where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated, “The dividing line between us and them is the prayer; whoever abandons it becomes a disbeliever” (Al-Tirmidhi). Salat not only differentiates believers but also strengthens their connection to Allah, anchoring their daily lives in faith.
Guidance from the Prophet on Salat
While Allah commands us to pray, it was through the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that the times and number of daily prayers were established, guided by Angel Jibril (Gabriel). Salat is the first deed that will be assessed on the Day of Judgment. If a believer’s prayer record is sound, they will be successful. This duty is non-negotiable; unlike fasting, which can be delayed for those who are sick, prayer must be observed regardless of circumstances, including sickness.
Prayer in Congregation
A true Muslim strives to perform Salat in congregation, especially the five daily prayers, unless circumstances beyond their control prevent them from doing so. Belief in Allah and His Messenger (PBUH) is incomplete without the observance of these prayers. In Surah Al-Mulk, we are reminded of the consequences of neglecting prayer. The Qur’an describes how the inhabitants of Hell respond when asked why they were led to such a fate: they confess their failure to perform Salat, which led them to the severe punishment in Sa’eer, one of the names for Hell.
The Importance of Observing Prayer on Time
As we fulfill our obligation to Allah, let us be diligent in performing our prayers at their appointed times. Allah reminds us in the Qur’an, “Indeed, Allah commands justice, good conduct, and giving to relatives and forbids immorality, bad conduct, and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded” (Quran 16:90). Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet, and we, as believers, are called to do the same, praying for peace upon him.
Let us strive to uphold our prayers and follow the path of righteousness, seeking the pleasure of Allah and success in this life and the hereafter.
