Table of Contents
Introduction
This is the twenty-third and concluding part of a series dedicated to Salah in Islam. we have delved into the significance of a well-practiced Salah and reflected on how our predecessors approached prayer with profound humility and sincerity. Here, we highlight the value of gradual change in our approach to prayer, as true transformation unfolds over time. To read the complete series, ALLAH willing, Click here.
Attaining True Humility in Salah: The Example of Our Righteous Predecessors
In closing, we humbly ask ALLAH Almighty to purify our hearts and to bless us with hearts that are soft and humble. This was among the frequent supplications of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him), who prayed:
“O ALLAH, I seek refuge in YOU from a heart that is not humble…”1
The Prophet (Peace be upon Him) also said:
“O ALLAH, I seek refuge in YOU from a heart that is not humble, a soul that is not satisfied, knowledge that is of no benefit and a supplication that is not answered”2
A heart that lacks humility is a profound affliction, and there is no greater hardship for a servant than a heart that becomes hardened. We ask ALLAH to cleanse and revive our hearts, to grant them purity and humility, and to fill them with faith.
A Lifelong Journey of Renewal with Salah
Even after this series, there is still so much to explore about Salah. We pray that ALLAH continues to breathe life into our hearts through prayer, as each one of us needs a heart that is fully alive in Salah. It is essential for us to continually renew and strengthen our connection to prayer. Every Muslim should strive to deepen their understanding by listening to lectures, reading books, and exploring teachings on achieving humility in Salah. May ALLAH bless and protect our scholars who have shared this guidance for the benefit of the community.
More than just reading or listening, it is essential to approach the teachings of Salah with sincerity. The purpose of gathering this series in one place is to encourage us to come together to read, reflect, and inspire each other. We unite to renew our commitment and deepen our dedication to improving our Salah. Our hope is that after reading this series, each reader approaches their next prayer with a refreshed focus and renewed dedication. From the Adhan to Wudu to the prayer itself, may each part reflect a new sincerity.
Consistent Improvement in Salah, Step by Step
Improving in Salah is not something achieved instantly. As humans, we are imperfect, and we must understand that true improvement unfolds gradually over time. Your first prayer might not be fully focused; perhaps you can concentrate in just half of it. Over time, however, you may improve further, striving to focus in each Rak‘ah. Bit by bit, you can reach a level where, as our Prophet (Peace be upon Him) demonstrated, you become so deeply engaged in prayer that you are unaware of the world around you.
This gradual improvement is essential. Do not lose hope; as long as we remain on the path, we are drawing closer to ALLAH. Whoever embarks on this journey of growth will, by ALLAH’s will, see their prayers and connection to ALLAH transform for the better.
May ALLAH make us among the righteous. May HE bless us with sincerity, open doors for us, and allow these words to reach the hearts that need them. May HE grant us acceptance, honesty, and humility.
Subhanak ALLAHumma wa bihamdik, ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Anta, astaghfiruka wa atubu ilayk.
Sources:
- Dr. Ahmed ElAraby. فاهم 36 | سلسلة تذوق العبادات – (1) الصلاة | مع د. أحمد العربي. YouTube Video.
